A. PAUL ADDRESSES CHURCH PROBLEMS (Ch. 1:1 thru 6:20)
Thru assorted sources, the Apostle Paul had received news of problems in the Corinthian church, including such things as jealousy, divisions, sexual immorality, and the failure to bring discipline when needed. The church today can learn a great deal by observing Paul’s handling of these types of situations.
So without Paul’s presence the Corinthian church had fallen into a chaotic mess. Paul’s approach in dealing with this situation was direct and to the point. “I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.” (1 Corinthians 1:10 NLT)
Unity in our churches is critical. Without unity would be like two people rowing a boat, only they aren’t rowing in the same direction. You can no doubt see where THAT would lead you. The problems of the past revisit the future, for human nature is human nature and man strains at the leash constantly, making unity, at times, very difficult. It’s bound to happen with a church full of folks who all have different upbringings, different personalities, different thought processes, etc. Humility almost seems to be a lost attitude anymore.
Division within the church is inspired by the enemy. Sin in the church among its members can be overcome if we all place our main focus on Christ and not on that which surrounds us. The enemy is a manipulator who will drag us all down if we allow it. Remain focused on God and all he wishes us to do. The devil cannot stand in the presence of the Lord.
B. PAUL ANSWERS CHURCH QUESTIONS (Ch. 7:1 thru 16:24)
After Paul had dealt with the problem of disorder in the church, he moves on to the list of questions that church members from Corinth had sent him. Such questions as, marriage, being single, eating meat offered to idols, what is proper worship, proper orderliness in the Lord’s Supper, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection. These same questions tend to plague churches today as well. Therefore, we should pay close attention to what Paul has to say regarding these matters.
Some of Paul’s advice may seem antiquated, but in the light of serving God we must realize that Christ must be the center of our lives. Pleasing God with our thoughts, words and actions should be constantly in the forefront of our minds. Did you honestly think that in exchange for freedom from past sins nothing would be expected of you? However, we must also realize that everything required of us is not demanded, but rather shown to us as a more positive, helpful approach to our lives. Living in peace by not reacting, or overreacting (like I tend to do) is a better way to live than going nuts over every little thing that is out of the ordinary.
Up next are the Mega Themes from this particular letter. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible
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