Proclamation:
“Be
on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NIV)
Explanation:
These
words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit
of God, to the believers in the church at Corinth. Paul begins this last chapter with a
discussion regarding the collection of money to help The Lord’s people. (1
Corinthians 16:1-4) He told them that he
wanted to spend some significant time with them after he went through Macedonia
and after his stay in Ephesus. (1 Corinthians 16:5-9) He made a special request regarding Timothy’s
visit to them and he told them that Apollos would come to them later. (1
Corinthians 16:10-12) Then he offered
them some words of encouragement, telling them to be careful, keep the faith,
and stand strong. He exhorted them to do
everything in love. He also told them to
graciously accept new people who were doing The Lord’s work, (1 Corinthians
16:15-18) then he gave them his final farewell greeting. (1 Corinthians
16:19-24)
Application:
As
believers we should encourage and build one another up. Even those believers who are strong in The
Lord, and in The Word, still occasionally need a word of encouragement. All of us go through trials, temptations, and
tribulations. We have no idea of all the
things that a fellow believer may be dealing with. It is not necessary for us to know their
personal business in order for us to offer them an encouraging word or to pray
for them. We should make sure that
whatever we do or say is done in love. We
should THINK first before we speak
or act. Make sure that it is Truthful, Helpful, Inspiring, Nice, and Kind.
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