IN CHRIST WE BECOME A NEW CREATURE

PROCLAMATION

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come; the old has gone, the new is here.”  2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)  The King James Version (KJV) of The Bible for this verse reads: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature; old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.”

 

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 chapter with a discussion of believers waiting for their new heavenly body. (2 Corinthians 5:1-5) He says that while they are present in the body, they are absent from The Lord, but he would rather be absent from the body and present with The Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:6-8)  He also tells them that we must all stand before the judgment seat of Christ and receive that which is due us based upon what we did while we were in the body, whether what we did was good or bad. (2 Corinthians 5:10)  Then he states that if any man has accepted Christ, he is a new creature; the old things he used to be and do have passed away, and all things are now new.  This is because God has reconciled us onto Himself through Christ. (2 Corinthians 5:17-19)  He ends the chapter by saying that we are ambassadors for Christ, who had no sin but became sin for us, so that we might become righteous in the sight of God. (2 Corinthians 5:20-21)

 

APPLICATION

We were totally sinful before we accepted Christ into our life.  We knew nothing but sin.  After we accepted Christ, we received The Holy Spirit of God which pushed our sinful nature aside and changed our life.  When we became a new creation, we identified our self with Christ and not with the world.  However, we did not lose our sinful worldly nature, and from time to time we struggle with letting it regain control of us. (Romans 7:19-21)  We do not lose our salvation when we sin, but we break our fellowship with Christ. (Psalm 51:12)  We have the capacity to do that which is right, but we have to choose to follow the right path. (Joshua 24:15)  He said whosoever will, let him come. (Revelation 22:17)  We must choose to live by new principles, exhibit new behavior, and speak different words.  We have been given a new heart and there should be some outward display of this. (Ezekiel 36:26)  We are new, and we should have new affections, new appetites, new behavior, new desires, new ideas, and a new outlook on life.

WE GET KNOCKED DOWN BUT NOT KNOCKED OUT

PROCLAMATION

“We are pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.  We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body."  2 Corinthians 4:8-10 (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.  In this chapter Paul discusses his present physical weakness as compared to his spiritual strength through Christ.  He begins by saying that he does not distort The Word of God.  He presents it plainly. (2 Corinthians 4:1-2)  He says that those who do not understand it are unbelievers. (2 Corinthians 4:3-4)  It is the light of God which shines on believers and brings them out of darkness into knowledge. (2 Corinthians 4:6-7)  Then he tells them that believers are hard pressed but not crushed, perplexed but not in despair, persecuted but not abandoned, and struck down but not destroyed because of The Christ within them.  He goes on to say that outwardly they may be wasting away but inwardly they are renewed each day, and that any momentary trouble they face is far outweighed by the eternal glory that awaits them. (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)

 

APPLICATION

Things may not be easy in this life for believers but if we hold on and keep the faith we will be rewarded in the end.  We may be beaten, abused, and mistreated, verbally or physically, but we will not be defeated.  In the end we will be victorious. (1 Corinthians 15:57)  The Christ within us is bigger, and stronger, and greater, and more powerful than anything that comes up against us. (1 John 4:4)  As we age our bodies may grow weaker physically, but internally our spirit is strengthened each day. 

 

THE HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD GIVES US FREEDOM

PROCLAMATION

“Now The Lord is The Spirit, and where The Spirit of The Lord is, there is freedom.”  2 Corinthians 3:17 (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.  Here Paul makes a bold statement and implies that The Holy Spirit is The Spirit of The Lord Jesus, The Christ.  This should not be so hard to accept since we are taught that God, The Father, and God, The Son, and God, The Holy Spirit are one. (1 John 5:7)  Jesus, The Christ, said, “I and My Father are one.” (John 10:30)  Therefore, The Holy Spirit of God is The Spirit of Christ.  Where The Spirit of The Lord is, there is freedom.

 

APPLICATION

The Bible says, “God is a Spirit; and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.” (John 4:24)  Wherever The Holy Spirit of The Lord God is, there is freedom.  This is not freedom in the physical sense, even though that can also happen.  This is freedom in the spiritual sense.  Since The Holy Spirit dwells within all believers, we all get to enjoy this “freedom”; the freedom from spiritual blindness and darkness; the freedom from the bondage of sin and the captivity of Satan; and the freedom from the fear of hell, God’s wrath, and eternal damnation.  The more time we spend in His Holy Word, and the more often we exhibit the fruit of The Spirit, the more like Him we become.  As we do His will and are ruled by our spiritual nature, we are slowly being transformed into His image. (2 Corinthians 3:18)  However, the transformation will not be complete until He returns, and we are changed from mortal to immortal. (1 Corinthians 15:50-53)

 

WE ARE TO FORGIVE AND COMFORT OTHERS

PROCLAMATION

“If anyone has caused grief … not to put it too severely … you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.”  2 Corinthians 2:5-7 (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.  In this chapter Paul addresses the forgiveness of an offender.  He told them that if a brother offends them, they should forgive him and comfort him.  They should also reaffirm their love for him. (2 Corinthians 2:8)  Rejecting him could cause him to be overwhelmed.  They should show him love and restore him to the fellowship.

 

APPLICATION

Forgiveness is very important in the life of a believer.  We are encouraged to forgive a brother who has caused us grief.  We should also forgive a brother who has messed up in other ways. (Galatians 6:1)  Remember, we all have sinned in the past and were in need of forgiveness. (Romans 3:23)  Our Lord and Savior, Jesus The Christ, said that we are to forgive those who have done us wrong.  In fact, He said that we should forgive our brother “seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:21-22)  He also said that if we do not forgive others, then we will not be forgiven of our sins. (Mark 11:26)  Having an unforgiving spirit is not Christ-like. 

 

COMFORTED IN ORDER TO COMFORT OTHERS

PROCLAMATION

“Praise be to The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, The Father of compassion and The God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves received from God.”  2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (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.  Most Bible scholars believe that The Bible Book Second Corinthians is actually the fourth of four letters which Paul wrote to the believers in Corinth.  After beginning by identifying himself and stating that Timothy was with him, Paul offers praise to The God of all comfort.  He states that they had received comfort during their troubles.  He said that God comforted them so that they would know how to comfort others during their troubles. 

 

APPLICATION

God is The God of compassion and comfort.  He comforts us during our troubles so that we can learn how to comfort others in their troubles.  When we have experienced one kind of affliction or tribulation and been comforted, we are able to comfort others who experience similar trouble.  We have to learn how to be a comfort and a blessing to others.  We have to learn what to do, what to say, and how to say it.  Sometimes, we just need to be there and be quiet.  After we have received comfort, it is easier for us to offer it to others as we do with blessings.  We should praise God for what He has done for us when we needed Him, and for what He has allowed us to do for others. 

 

DO EVERYTHING IN LOVE

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 always 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.  We all need to stay strong in the faith and to repeatedly demonstrate our love for one another.

 

WE WILL BE CHANGED FROM MORTAL TO IMMORTAL

PROCLAMATION

“… We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the sound of the last trumpet.  For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed … When the perishable has been clothed with imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’ ”  1 Corinthians 15:51-54 (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 chapter discussing the resurrection of Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:1-11)  Then he discusses the resurrection of the believers who had died. (1 Corinthians 15:12-34)  Afterwards he transitions to a discussion on the resurrected body. (1 Corinthians 15:35-58)  It is during this discourse that he states that believers will be changed.  When Christ returns, we will change from being perishable to imperishable, and from being mortal to immortal.  This will be done in the twinkling of an eye. 

 

APPLICATION

Some of us will be alive when Christ returns, but dead or alive we will all be changed.  Our earthly bodies are not fit to be in His presence or in the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians 15:50)  Our human bodies are frail, corrupt, and perishable.  Age, disease, and death cause our bodies to deteriorate.  All believers will be changed from that which is perishable to that which is imperishable.  When He returns, the dead in Christ will rise first and then we who are alive at that time will join them. (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)  Our earthly bodies will be transformed into immortal bodies which will be recognizable to others (Luke 16:22-23) but will be different like the angels. (Matthew 22:30)  So, let us all keep the faith and keep on working for The Lord knowing that He will remember our good works. (Hebrews 6:10)  Our labor for Him will not be in vain. (1 Corinthians 15:58)  We have the victory over death through our Lord Jesus, The Christ. (1 Corinthians 15:57)  To God be the glory!!!

 

THE SPIRITUAL GIFT OF SPEAKING IN TONGUES

PROCLAMATION

“… When you come together, each of you has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation.  Everything must be done so that the church may be built up.  If anyone speaks in a tongue, two or at the most three should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret.  If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and to God.”  1 Corinthians 14:26-28 (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.  In this chapter Paul addresses them with regard to how they should conduct themselves during the worship services regarding speaking in tongues and prophecy. (1 Corinthians 14:1-3)  Both of these gifts should be done so that the church may be edified. (1 Corinthians 14:4-5)  Paul states that speaking in tongues is not helpful if no one understands it and if there is no one present to interpret it. (1 Corinthians 14:6-18)  He says that speaking in tongues is a sign for unbelievers, in their own language, while prophecy is for believers. (1 Corinthians 14:20-22)  Speaking in tongues should be done by one person at a time and someone must be present to interpret it.  He ends the chapter by saying that everything during the worship service must be done decently and in order. (1 Corinthians 14:40)

 

APPLICATION

These words are presented as Paul presented his discussion regarding Spiritual Gifts, that you would not be uninformed. (1 Corinthians 12:1)  Speaking in tongues has been taken out of context in many worship services.  Some speakers utter short phrases, “speaking in tongues” during their presentations from the pulpit.  Some churches even require speaking in tongues as a condition of membership.  Speaking in tongues first occurred on the day of Pentecost, so that everyone in the crowd heard the disciples speaking in their own language. (Acts 2:1-11)  Speaking in tongues is a gift from The Holy Spirit of God (1 Corinthians 12:7-11) which is to be used to help non-believers hear The Word of God in their own language.  The speaker has not studied or learned this foreign language but speaks it by the power of God.  The gift of tongues is for the benefit of the hearer who speaks and understands the foreign language.  Let us not claim to have this gift in order to impress men.

THE DEFINITION OF LOVE

PROCLAMATION

“…  But do not have love, I am nothing … Love is patient, love is kind … it does not envy … boast … dishonor others … it is not self-seeking … it keeps no record of wrongs … It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”  1 Corinthians 13:1-7 (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.  In this chapter Paul wrote to them concerning love.  He began by saying that without love, even the most eloquent of words is just noise. (1 Corinthians 13:1)  He said that if he had the gifts of prophecy, knowledge, and faith, that without love he was nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:2)  Even if he gave all that he had to the poor, without love it does him no good. (1 Corinthians 13:3)  Then he goes on to describe love by saying what it is and what it is not.  Love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4-8)  He ends by saying that with respect to the three most important things in the life of a believer, faith, hope, and love, that the greatest of these is love. (1 Corinthians 13:13)

 

APPLICATION

It is difficult to define “love” and the definition in the dictionary leaves a lot to be desired.  Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary defines love as a “strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties”.  It also gives eight other definitions, all of which relate to feelings.  In this chapter Paul provides us with displays of love and descriptions of what love is and what it isn’t, and what love does and doesn’t do.  Love is all-consuming and involves the whole person including the heart, (1 Corinthians 13:1) the mind, (1 Corinthians 13:2) and the will of the involved person. (1 Corinthians 13:3)  Love is the fruit of The Holy Spirit. (Galatians 5:22)  This love is the agape kind of love, not the brotherly love, “phileo”, or the passion lustful eros type of love.  It is the divine love, the love of God.  Without the love of God our gifts and talents are worthless.  The love of God is perfected within us as we keep and obey His Holy Word. (1 John 2:5)  There is no fear in love.  Perfect love of God casts out fear. (1 John 4:18)  God is love.  Whoever lives in love, lives in God, and God lives within them. (1 John 4:16)  As believers, we are commanded to love one another. (John 13:34-35)  Anyone who claims to love God and yet hates his brother is a liar. (1 John 4:20-21)

EACH BELIEVER IS GIVEN A SPIRITUAL GIFT

PROCLAMATION

“Now to each one the manifestation of The Spirit is given for the common good.  To one there is given through The Spirit a message of wisdom, to another a message of knowledge by means of the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by that one Spirit, to another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues, and to still another the interpretation of tongues.  All these are the work of one and the same Spirit, and He distributes them to each one, just as He determines.”  1 Corinthians 12:7-11 (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.  In this chapter Paul wrote to them concerning Spiritual Gifts so that they would not be uninformed. (1 Corinthians 12:1)  His point here was that there are different gifts, but they all come from the same Holy Spirit of God. (1 Corinthians 12:4)  He then proceeds to list the gifts of The Spirit: wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment, speaking in tongues, and the interpretation of tongues.  He states that The Holy Spirit distributes these Spiritual gifts to believers as He chooses.

 

APPLICATION

The Holy Spirit of God gives one or more Spiritual gifts to each believer as He determines is appropriate.  Every believer has been blessed to get at least one gift, some get more than one of them, but no believer gets all of them.  The gifts allow the believer the capacity to perform a service for the glory of God to benefit the body of Christ.  These Spiritual gifts are different from natural physical gifts like singing or playing an instrument.  Natural gifts can be used for the glory of God, but they can also be used for self-glorification.  Spiritual gifts are to be used for the advantage, benefit, and salvation of others.  We all have Spiritual gifts, physical talents, and natural abilities which we could use for the glory of God.  All of us could do more with what we have than we are currently doing.  In fact, in all that we do, we should do it to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

 

DO NOT TAKE THE LORD'S SUPPER IN AN UNWORTHY MANNER

PROCLAMATION

“For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim The Lord’s death until He comes.  So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of The Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and the blood of The Lord … For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.  That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep.”  1 Corinthians 11:26-30 (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 chapter with a discussion regarding the covering of the head by men and women. (1 Corinthians 11:2-16)  Then he goes into a discussion regarding the abuse of The Lord’s Supper. (1 Corinthians 11:17-22)  He recounts what he himself had received from The Lord regarding why believers were to partake of The Lord’s Supper. (1 Corinthians 11:23-26)  He follows this with a discussion regarding the unworthy taking of The Lord’s Supper without discerning The Lord’s body and the consequences for doing so. (1 Corinthians 11:27-34)

APPLICATION

The Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion, is not to be taken lightly.  This is something which we should do reverently in remembrance of Christ.  When Christ served bread to the two believers that He met, walked, and talked with on the road to Emmaus after His resurrection, their eyes were opened, and they knew Him. (Luke 24:30-31)  Likewise with us it should be an eye opening and revealing experience.  Those who eat and drink The Lord’s Supper in an unworthy manner bring judgment upon themselves.  Many people are weak and sick for doing this unworthily and many people have died for this offense. (1 Corinthians 11:30)  The Lord Jesus instituted this on the night He was betrayed. (Matthew 26:26, Mark 14:22, Luke 22:19, and 1 Corinthians 11:24)  It is better for us not to partake of it than to do it in an unworthy manner.

 

GOD WILL NOT ALLOW MORE TO BE PUT ON US THAN WE CAN BEAR

PROCLAMATION

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.  And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.  But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.”  1 Corinthians 10:13 (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 began this chapter by recounting the history of their ancestors from the Red Sea to the wilderness. (1 Corinthians 10:1-6)  He said that those things were recorded and recounted to them as examples of what not to do. (1 Corinthians 10:6)  Then he told them that they would be tempted, but they would not be tempted beyond that which they could bear. (1 Corinthians 10:13)  He spent the remainder of the chapter discussing their freedom to eat meat from animals which had been sacrificed to idols.  He ended by telling them that whatever they eat, drink, or do should be done to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31)

 

APPLICATION

We have all gone through trials and temptations.  We may be going through some of them right now, but if we are not, then we will definitely go through some trials in the future.  However, The Holy Spirit of The Lord God was, and is, and always will be with us.  He said that He would never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5)  Being tempted is not a sin.  Jesus was tempted. (Matthew 4:1-11)  We sin when we yield and give in to the temptation.  But we do not have to yield, He will not allow us to be temped beyond that which we can handle.  Sometimes we need to remove ourselves from the places or the people that provide us with the temptation to sin.  Reading and studying The Word of God can help us when we are tempted.  God always provides us with a way out. (1 Corinthians 10:13)  We just have to ask Him for His help.

 

BELIEVERS NEED SELF-DISCIPLINE

PROCLAMATION

“Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one gets the prize?  Run in such a way as to get the prize.  Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training.  They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.  Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.  No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the crown.”  1 Corinthians 9:24-27 (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 chapter by talking about his rights as an apostle.  He provides a justification for them using worldly and Biblical examples to support his claim. (1 Corinthians 9:1-12)  Then he goes on to say that he did not use or claim that which is rightfully his. (1 Corinthians 9:13-18)   He ends by describing the need for self-discipline among believers, apostles, and preachers, including himself.  He states that we ought to run our race in such a way as to make sure that we get the prize. (1 Corinthians 9:24)  For the prize which we seek is an eternal crown.

 

APPLICATION

In an athletic race event, there is only one winner.  Athletes must train and practice and make sacrifices to prepare for the race in order to win the prize.  However, in our spiritual race all of us can be winners and get the prize.  We must also work and make sacrifices in order to get our prize.  We must walk His way (Psalm 128:1) and exercise faith and self-control. (Hebrews 11:6)  If we live by The Word of God and follow His way, we will all receive a crown as our reward.  Our salvation is not our reward; our salvation is a gift from God for those who believe in Christ.  Our rewards will be based upon the work we do during this life which gives God glory.  One day we will receive our crowns. (2 Timothy 4:8 and James 1:12)

 

SOMETIMES DOING WHAT WE KNOW TO BE RIGHT CAN BE WRONG

PROCLAMATION

“Be careful, however, that the exercise of your rights does not become a stumbling block to the weak.”  1 Corinthians 8:9 (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.  Here Paul tells them about eating food which had been used in sacrifices to idols. (1 Corinthians 8:1-6)  Some people thought that if they ate the meat of an animal which had been sacrificed to an idol that they were defiled. (1 Corinthians 8:7)  Paul told them that the idols can do nothing and that eating the meat which was sacrificed to them would not make them better or worse in the sight of God. (1 Corinthians 8:8)  He said that the problem is that those who are weak in The Word may see them eating that meat and they may do likewise and then feel defiled. (1 Corinthians 8:10-11)  They may also change their opinion of the believers that they see eating that meat.  Paul said that the strong in The Word sin when they do things which cause the weak in The Word to fall. (1 Corinthians 8:12-13)  If eating meat in front of a brother offends him, then do not eat it in front of him.

 

APPLICATION

It is possible for a believer to do something which is right, but has the appearance of being wrong, which may cause someone who sees them to stumble and fall into sin.  As believers we must avoid even the appearance of doing evil. (1 Thessalonians 5:22)  It is better not to do something which we know to be right if it would cause someone who is less knowledgeable in The Word to stumble.  We are always being observed, especially by children, and we do not want to cause a child to sin. (Matthew 18:6)  Just because something is right, or legal, does not mean that we should do it.  If it appears wrong to other believers, then we should not do it.  Less informed believers who look up to us may become disillusioned and turn away from the faith.  We do not want to be guilty of causing someone to fall away from The Lord because they saw our behavior. (1 Corinthians 8:10-13)

 

A BELIEVER CAN SANCTIFY THEIR UNBELIEVING SPOUSE

PROCLAMATION

“For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her husband.  Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy.”  1 Corinthians 7:14 (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.  In this chapter Paul tells them about marriage.  He is responding to a matter which was presented to him in a letter.  They said, “It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.” (1 Corinthians 7:1)  Paul told them that each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and that each woman should do so with her own husband. (1 Corinthians 7:2-5)  He said that those individuals who were unmarried should stay unmarried.  However, if they cannot control themselves, then they should marry, because it is better for them to marry than to be consumed with passion and lust. (1 Corinthians 7:8-9)  He also told them that the married believer provides some covering for their unbelieving spouse.  Then he told them that whatever status they were in when they came to Christ, that they should remain in that status. (1 Corinthians 7:17-24)  Paul spends the remainder of the chapter addressing his concerns with marriage.

 

APPLICATION

With respect to marriage, it is much better for a believer not to be “unequally yoked” and married to a non-believer. (2 Corinthians 6:14)  However, if a believer is married to a non-believer, it is better for them to stay married and not to divorce their spouse just because he or she is a non-believer.  The non-believing spouse, and any children born to their union, are blessed because of the believing spouse. (1 Corinthians 7:12-14)  Marriage is a Divine institution. (Matthew 19:5-6 and Mark 10:6-9)  Hopefully, the believer will live such a life that they can lead their non-believing spouse to Christ.  However, if the non-believing spouse chooses to leave the marriage, the believer should let them go.  It is better to live alone in peace. (1 Corinthians 7:15)

 

WE BELONG TO GOD AND NOT TO OURSELVES

PROCLAMATION

 “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of The Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?  You are not your own; you are bought at a price.  Therefore honor God with your bodies.”  1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (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 began this chapter by telling them that they were wrong to take one another to court in lawsuits.  Ungodly people should not judge The Lord’s people. (1 Corinthians 6:1-6)  He also said that they were cheating each other and doing wrong and that there is no place in the kingdom of God for wrongdoers. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11)  He told them that they had been set aside, washed, sanctified, and justified by The Holy Spirit of God. (1 Corinthians 6:11)  He told them that they should flee from fornication. (1 Corinthians 6:13, 6:15-16, and 6:18)  He also told them that they had been united with The Lord God and they were one with Him in spirit. (1 Corinthians 6:16-17)  Then he told them that their bodies were temples of The Holy Spirit of God and that they should honor God with their bodies. 

 

APPLICATION

What Christ endured on the cross at Calvary paid the price for our sins.  In effect, He bought us and redeemed us, and now we belong to Him.  We do not belong to ourselves; we belong to The Lord God.  Our bodies are the temples of His Holy Spirit, who resides within us.  We need to behave in such a way as to honor Him.  That includes not only what we do and say to others but also how we treat our bodies and what we put in them.  We cannot live in immorality and effectively serve The Lord God.  We should live our lives in such a way as to give God glory.

 

BE CAREFUL WHOM YOU ASSOCIATE WITH

PROCLAMATION

“But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler.  Do not even eat with such people.”  1 Corinthians 5:11 (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 began this chapter by telling them that it had been reported that there was sexual immorality among them.  Not only was there fornication among them but some of the men were sleeping with their father’s wife. (1 Corinthians 5:1-2)  Also members of the church knew about this but did not do anything about it.  Here Paul urged them to take action. (1 Corinthians 5:4-5)  He had written to them previously warning them not to associate with sexually immoral people (1 Corinthians 5:9-10) and now he was being more specific in this letter. (The epistle entitled First Corinthians is actually the second of four letters written by Paul to the believers at Corinth.)

 

APPLICATION

We may not have control over who is in our family, or the people that we work with, but we choose our friends.  We need to give some thought to the people that we choose to spend time with.  “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” (Amos 3:3)  None of us is perfect, we have all sinned. (Romans 3:23)  This is not to say that we should not speak to non-believers or back-sliders.  However, if we continually spend time with unapologetically, incorrigible sinful people, what does that say about us?  We should fellowship with people who share our beliefs, values, and principals. (1 John 1:7)  We should not fellowship with those who continually walk in darkness. (Ephesians 5:11)  We really should not call ourselves “Christian” if we continue to walk in darkness with our sinful friends. (1 John 1:6)  Once we accepted Christ we were changed into new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17) and we should put away our old sinful ways, and our old sinful friends.  There should be a difference between the life that we lived before we accepted Christ and the life afterwards, including what we say and do, and who we do it with.

 

THAT WHICH IS DONE IN THE DARK WILL BE BROUGHT TO THE LIGHT

PROCLAMATION

“Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until The Lord comes.  He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart.  At that time each will receive their praise from God.”  1 Corinthians 4:5 (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 began this chapter by telling them that they should regard all of the apostles and leaders as servants of Christ. (1 Corinthians 4:1)  He said that those entrusted with leadership positions must be proven faithful and that it is The Lord God who will judge them. (1 Corinthians 4:2-4)  The Lord will judge the leaders, and everyone else.  He will bring to light all of the things which were done in darkness.  He will also expose the motives for every action and spoken word.  Those who are worthy of praise will receive it from God.

 

APPLICATION

We really should not judge people because we are not qualified.  We do not have all of the relevant information available to us upon which to base a just decision.  We can only hear what is said and see what is done in our presence.  (Recordings can be so easily manipulated.)  We have no idea of the thought processes or motives which were behind them.  Only The Lord God can see the heart and the mind, (Jeremiah 20:12) and only He has all of the information about a person which is necessary in order to judge him justly. (Hebrews 10:30)  All of the things which were done in the dark will be brought to light.  One day we will have to give an account of our stewardship (Luke 16:2) including every thought, deed, and spoken word. (Matthew 12:36)  We will all stand before Christ. (Romans 14:10-12)  Don’t believe the people who say, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.”

 

A BELIEVERS FOUNDATION IS JESUS THE CHRIST

PROCLAMATION

“By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation … no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.  If anyone builds on this foundation … their work will be shown for what it is … it will be revealed with fire, and fire will test the quality of each person’s work.  If what has been built survives, the builder will receive a reward.  If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved …”  1 Corinthians 3:10-15 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God.  Paul began this chapter by telling the believers in Corinth that they were still “worldly, mere infants in Christ” quarreling and jealous, and he had to feed them The Word of God as milk for they were not ready for it as solid food. (1 Corinthians 3:1-3)  It was not important which leader they followed for all of them were servants, vehicles which brought them The Word of God. (1 Corinthians 3:4-5)  One of them planted the seed and one watered it but only God made it grow. (1 Corinthians 3:6-9)  Then he told them that he given them the foundation, Jesus Christ, and they should be careful what they build upon that foundation.  All that they built, their work in this life, would be judged and tested with fire.  Only those things which gave God glory would pass through the fire.  He ended the chapter by telling them that their body is God’s temple.  The Spirit of God dwells within them and they should be careful how they treat that temple. (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)

 

APPLICATION

Only what we do for Christ will be counted in the end.  As believers we will pass through the fire on Judgment Day but our work and efforts here on earth which did not glorify God will be burned up.  Only those things which gave God glory will survive the fire and we will receive a reward for them.  Everything that we have done in our lives from the moment we accepted Christ will constitute our works, and only that which glorified God will be counted in the final tally.  As believers, it is on Christ the solid Rock we stand and build our house. (Luke 6:48 and 1 Corinthians 10:4)

 

UNIMAGINABLE GREAT THINGS AWAIT US

PROCLAMATION

“However, as it is written: ‘What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived,’ the things God has prepared for those who love Him; these are the things God has revealed to us by His Spirit.”  1 Corinthians 2:9-10 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God.  Paul began this chapter by telling the believers in Corinth that he only spoke to them about the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, The Christ.  He said that his message and his preaching were not full of enticing words or reflective of human wisdom, but they were a demonstration of the power of God. (1 Corinthians 2:1-5)  He declared God’s wisdom and power and said that no man has seen, or heard, or imagined what The Lord God has prepared for those who love Him. (1 Corinthians 2:6-9)  Here Paul quotes from the Old Testament scriptures. (Isaiah 64:4)  Then he said that it is by The Spirit of God that he preaches and not by anything that he learned from man. (1 Corinthians 2:10-14)

 

APPLICATION

It is possible to learn some things by what we see or by what we hear.  However, there are certain things which can only be learned and understood through the aid of The Holy Spirit of God. (1 Corinthians 2:10-13)  This is why we as believers should prayerfully read and study The Word of God.  There are things in The Bible and in life that we will need help in order to understand.  However, there are some things which will never be understood by non-believers. (1 Corinthians 2:14)  Certain things are only for those who love The Lord and who wait on Him.  “Wait, I say, on The Lord.” (Psalm 27:14)  “Trust in The Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)  For The Lord gives wisdom; out of His mouth comes knowledge and understanding. (Proverbs 22:6)  We will all be enlightened, as the song says, “bye and bye.”  Only God can reveal to us what He has in store for us.

 

THE MESSAGE FROM THE CROSS IS LOVE

PROCLAMATION

“For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.  1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the apostle Paul, under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God, in a letter to the believers in the church at Corinth.  Paul had heard that there was disagreement and division between the believers in the church at Corinth based upon which leader they were following. (1 Corinthian 1:10-12)  His message to them was that they should on one accord.  Christ was not divided, and His message was clear.  He told them that they should focus on the message of the cross.  He said that the world may think that the message of the cross is foolishness, but those who are saved know that it is the love of Christ and the power of God.

 

APPLICATION

The cross symbolizes the crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection of Christ.  It divides mankind into two groups, believers who are saved and non-believers who are not saved.  The message of the cross should not divide saved people, it should unite them.  “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believed in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)  It was out of His love for us and His obedience to God, The Father, that Christ stayed on the cross. (Matthew 26:42 and Luke 22:42)  While suffering on the cross He showed His love by forgiving those who crucified Him and those of us who made His crucifixion necessary. (Luke 23:34)  The fear and reverence of The Lord is the beginning of wisdom. (Psalms 111:10 and Proverbs 9:10)  Those of us, whom God has called to believe, know that all power and wisdom come from God. (1 Corinthians 1:24-25)  As we think about whom we are, what we have done, and what we have become, we know that we have been loved and blessed by God. (1 Corinthians 1:26-31)  To God be the glory!!!

 

BE KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT THE WORD OF GOD

PROCLAMATION

“… But I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil.  The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.  The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.”  Romans 16:19-20 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle Paul under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the believers in Rome.  Paul devotes much of this final chapter of Romans to naming thirty-five believers.  Some of whom he knew in the church at Rome, and others who were with him as companions who also sent greetings to the believers in Rome.  His brief message encourages them to greet one another with a “holy kiss.” (Romans 16:16)  He then urges them to “watch out for those who cause division” in the church.  He wanted them to be knowledgeable regarding The Word of God for themselves and not to mix it with that which is evil.  He said that soon The Lord God would put Satan in his place, but they were to resist the devil until that happens. (Romans 16:20)

 

APPLICATION

There are those who belong to church congregations, but they are there to serve themselves. (Romans 16:18)  They corrupt the church by deceiving the heart and head of believers. (Romans 16:18)  We need to be careful of what we hear, just because it was said in church does not make it true.  We need to compare what we hear with The Word of God before accepting it because people will attempt to deceive us. (Jeremiah 9:4-5 and Mark 13:5)  We need to resist the devil, and those doing his work, by submitting ourselves to The Lord God and His Holy Word. (James 4:7)  We also need to study The Word of God so that we can correctly discern that which is true in what we have heard. (2 Timothy 2:15)

 

THE BIBLE GIVES US HOPE

PROCLAMATION

“For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in The Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.  May The God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Romans 15:4-6 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle Paul under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God in a letter to the believers in Rome.  Paul states that The Scriptures were written for them and for future generations to come in order to teach and to encourage believers.  Then he prayed that God would give them the same attitude towards each other as Christ had towards them so that they could glorify God in unity.

 

APPLICATION

The Bible was written and passed down through the ages for us and for future generations to come.  It has been translated into almost every language so that all people can be exposed to it.  However, we are not only to read it, but we are to behave as it teaches. (Romans 2:13 and James 1:22)  It also encourages us and gives us hope because it tells us that in the end we will win because The Lord God is with us.  Another reason for reading The Bible is that we can learn more about The God we serve and The Christ that we identify with when we call ourselves “Christians.”  If we don’t know who He is, then how can we know who we are?  The Bible is also the instruction manual for living a Christian life.  It teaches us how to treat fellow believers and how to treat others.  The more you read it, the more you will learn from it.  When the end comes, we win.

 

DO NOT BE A STUMBLING BLOCK

PROCLAMATION

“So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.  Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another.  Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.”  Romans 14:12-13 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle Paul under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the believers in Rome.  Paul began this chapter by stating that those believers who are strong in the faith should not do anything that would distress those who are weak in the faith. (Romans 14:1-9)  Then he said that we must all give an account of ourselves to God.  Don’t judge someone just because they do things differently.  Don’t put anything in front of our brother which would cause him to stumble.  It is better for us to not to eat meat, or drink wine, or do anything else that would cause our brother or sister to stumble and fall into sin. (Romans 14:21)

 

APPLICATION

We should conduct ourselves in such a manner that we avoid any behavior or action, even if we know it to be right, if that behavior would cause our brother to stress out because he thinks that it is wrong.  We live our lives not just for ourselves alone.  What we do affects those around us.  Not only should we avoid sin and things which appear to be sinful, we should also avoid things that our brother thinks is wrong, at least while we are in his presence.  We who are strong in the faith do not want to do anything that would cause those who are weak in the faith to stumble, or to wound their feelings, or to bother their conscience.  Just because we can do something does not mean that we should do it.  Be mindful of the feeling of others and the affect that we have on them.

 

THE DAY OF SALVATION IS NEARER THAN WE THINK

PROCLAMATION

“… The hour has already come for you to wake up from your slumber, because our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed.  The night is nearly over; the day is almost here.  So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.”  Romans 13:11-12 (NIV)

 

EXPLANATION

These words were written by the Apostle Paul under the influence of The Holy Spirit of God to the believers in Rome.  Paul began this chapter by telling them to obey those who had governing authority over them because God has established them. (Romans 13:1-2)  That is also why he tells them that they should pay taxes and pay their debts. (Romans 13:6-8)  Then he encourages them to fulfill the law of love. (Romans 13:8-11)  Here, he says that the day of salvation is near.  It is time for them to put off their evil ways, put on the armor of God, and to clothe themselves in Jesus, The Christ. (Romans 13:12-14)

 

APPLICATION

As the old saying goes, “Wake up, it’s later than you think.”  The end of our time on this earth is almost here.  We all need to humble ourselves, and turn from our sinful ways and pray, and seek His face (2 Chronicles 7:14) while we can for once the day of salvation comes, and the grave has called, it will be too late. (Ecclesiastes 9:10)  We need to seek Him while He can still be found (Matthew 7:7) because there will come a time when it will be too late to seek Him. (Proverbs 1:28)  We need to put on the whole armor of God now. (Ephesians 6:11-18)  Don’t put off for tomorrow that which should be done today, for tomorrow is not promised to us.