HOPE
EXPLANATION - To encourage the Corinthian church as they faced trials, the Apostle Paul reminded them they would receive new glorified bodies in heaven. This would be a tremendous blessing in light of their present afflictions/suffering.
IMPORTANCE - To know some of what the future holds for us regarding the condition of our bodies in eternity should give us all great hope. With that in mind we can keep going thru any adversity. Our faithful service in the name of the Lord will result in great triumph on the other side.
GIVING
EXPLANATION - It was Paul who organized the collection of funds for the poor and needy in the Jerusalem church. Many of the churches in Asia* had given money to the fund. Paul takes the time to explain and defend his beliefs regarding giving and urges the Corinthians to follow thru with their previous commitment.
IMPORTANCE - Like the Corinthians, the churches today should also follow thru with their financial commitments. Our giving needs to be generous, sacrificial, well planned, and based on need. We should always remember that we serve Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides. God uses us to provide for those who are in need knowing that he will provide for us. Our generosity not only helps those in need, but it enables the recipients to thank God. Our giving could very well be the answer to someone’s specific prayer for help.
SOUND DOCTRINE
EXPLANATION - False teachers were a great challenge to Paul’s ministry and authority as an apostle. Paul professes his authority in order to preserve correct, sound biblical doctrine. For his defense Paul speaks of and displays sincerity, undying love for Christ and concern for God’s people.
IMPORTANCE - We should share Paul’s concern for correct biblical teaching in the churches today. There has been too many teachings that water down the true intent of the scriptures. We need to share Paul’s heart motivation, and love for Christ and his people, thus showing all our deep-seated sincerity.
Up next is our first look at Paul’s letter to the Galatian church. 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.
* The Seven Churches of Asia, aka, The Seven Churches of the Revelation, aka, The Seven Churches of the Apocalypse ... are seven major churches of early Christianity, as mentioned in the New Testament Book of Revelation. All of them are located in Asia Minor, present-day Turkey. They are Pergamum, Thyatira, Smyrna, Sardis, Philadelphia, Ephesus, & Laodicea. [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seven_churches_of_Asia]
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