Our journey through 1 Corinthians has now come to an end. It has been a pleasant study filled with rich nuggets of truth and harsh convicting realities. I have come to believe that Kirkwood is probably not all that different from Corinth.
Here are the main themes of each chapter:
1. Division vs. unity
2. Mind of Christ
3. Division vs. human loyalty
(This is one of two chiasms in this book. Think of them as sandwiches. The emphasis is on the meat. In this opening sandwich, division is the problem - developing the mind of Christ is the solution!)
4. Shame on you!
5. Immorality
6. Lawsuits
7. Relationship issues
8. Conscience vs. compromise
9. Servant leadership
10. Recounted history - pattern of idolatry & punishment
Here comes another sandwich - this one a double-decker! Notice the emphasis on Love. Worship without each member exercising their spiritual gifts in love is useless!
11. Worship (and Lord's Supper)
12. Spiritual gifts
13. LOVE
14. Spiritual gifts
& worship
15. Afterlife & new bodies
16. Paul's money standards and closing thoughts - living in tension
Theme: To become a Dream Church, you must deal with selfishness and unify around Christ with unconditional love!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Come Quickly Lord!...1 Cor. 16
Paul asked the Corinthian church to show their generosity by taking weekly offerings for the Jerusalem ministry. He encourages them to develop the habit of setting aside a portion of their income weekly. Paul never encourages tithing - instead he writes about first-fruit and freewill giving. NT giving is to be a voluntary habit done with joy, not duty!
It is quite interesting that Paul does not want to see or even touch the money! He says to take the collections before he gets there, and send it to Jerusalem with elected stewards. His ethical standards when it came to finances were far above board. I am reminded of the commitment Billy Graham made about financial integrity - and a scandal has never touched him!
Paul wanted to spend some quality time with the Corinthian church - a brief visit wouldn't suffice, but he knew that God wanted him to stay at Ephesus. He said "a great door for effective work has opened to me." How did he know this with such certainty? Because "there are many who oppose me"!!! Opposition & tension - what an excellent reason to believe that you are being obedient!!!
At the end of this final chapter, Paul takes the quill pen from his scribe, and begins to write sloppily with his own hand: "If anyone does not love the Lord - a curse be on him." Yep, that is Paul all right, no more authorization of authorship needed! May a curse be upon anyone who does not love God, His church, and His people.
Then Paul uses an Aramaic phrase: "Maranatha" meaning "Our Lord, Come!" This is both a cry of hope and a stern warning. Christ is coming - shape up! If you are sitting on the fence, get off. If you are hindering the work of Christ, now is the time to seek God's forgiveness. If you are living in immorality, bitterness, or causing division - repent now before it is too late.
Come quickly dear Lord!
It is quite interesting that Paul does not want to see or even touch the money! He says to take the collections before he gets there, and send it to Jerusalem with elected stewards. His ethical standards when it came to finances were far above board. I am reminded of the commitment Billy Graham made about financial integrity - and a scandal has never touched him!
Paul wanted to spend some quality time with the Corinthian church - a brief visit wouldn't suffice, but he knew that God wanted him to stay at Ephesus. He said "a great door for effective work has opened to me." How did he know this with such certainty? Because "there are many who oppose me"!!! Opposition & tension - what an excellent reason to believe that you are being obedient!!!
At the end of this final chapter, Paul takes the quill pen from his scribe, and begins to write sloppily with his own hand: "If anyone does not love the Lord - a curse be on him." Yep, that is Paul all right, no more authorization of authorship needed! May a curse be upon anyone who does not love God, His church, and His people.
Then Paul uses an Aramaic phrase: "Maranatha" meaning "Our Lord, Come!" This is both a cry of hope and a stern warning. Christ is coming - shape up! If you are sitting on the fence, get off. If you are hindering the work of Christ, now is the time to seek God's forgiveness. If you are living in immorality, bitterness, or causing division - repent now before it is too late.
Come quickly dear Lord!
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Over my dead body!!! 1 Cor. 15:35-59
The Apostle Paul answers our two BIG questions about our new heavenly bodies: “How?” and “What?” (vs. 35)
The “How?” is easily answered – new life is produced by death. Consider seeds – until they fall from their life source and go into the ground, they are living. Not until they go into the ground and die do they produce new life. (36) When my earthly body dies, God gives me a new and improved home for my soul.
The “What?” is still a mystery. Our physical bodies are just the seeds (37)…God chooses what the new plant will be like! (38)
Even physical bodies have a great amount of variety – just consider the difference between people, animals, birds, and fish!!! (39) Heavenly bodies have just as much variety but are more splendid than anything physical. (40) Consider the mind-popping variety and splendor of the sun, moon, and stars! (41)
Our present bodies are thankfully temporary…our new bodies will be eternal! (42) My sin-wracked body has an end, but my glorified body has none. Pain, disease, and death will not be part of the afterlife. My present body is dying, human, weak, and natural. My future body will be eternal, perfected, new, and spiritual. (43) That’s good news for everyone growing “old”!!!
All humans are natural descendants of Adam. All believers are spiritual descendants of Christ. (45) Humanity is lost and perishable - believers become found and eternal! (46) Adam came from dust, Jesus came from heaven. (47) We can be like either - which would you rather be like??!!! (48-49)
In our humanity, we cannot experience the amazing heaven God has prepared – where He will live with His followers forever. (50) Here is a cool secret – not all believers will experience death. Some of us will experience the Rapture – but all believers will experience a new reality with a brand-new body! (51) Our metamorphosis will be instantaneous! (52) In Christ, we can experience a new reality!
To get around in the afterlife, you need a new body! (53) This new body allows us victory over death. (54) Death cannot snatch our recreated glorified bodies! (55) We will have complete victory over the grave! The law causes sin which causes death. (56) Victory over all this is found in Jesus Christ! (57)
Stand firm! (58) Give yourself completely to God’s work – because your body is only temporary but your soul is permanent! (59)
The “How?” is easily answered – new life is produced by death. Consider seeds – until they fall from their life source and go into the ground, they are living. Not until they go into the ground and die do they produce new life. (36) When my earthly body dies, God gives me a new and improved home for my soul.
The “What?” is still a mystery. Our physical bodies are just the seeds (37)…God chooses what the new plant will be like! (38)
Even physical bodies have a great amount of variety – just consider the difference between people, animals, birds, and fish!!! (39) Heavenly bodies have just as much variety but are more splendid than anything physical. (40) Consider the mind-popping variety and splendor of the sun, moon, and stars! (41)
Our present bodies are thankfully temporary…our new bodies will be eternal! (42) My sin-wracked body has an end, but my glorified body has none. Pain, disease, and death will not be part of the afterlife. My present body is dying, human, weak, and natural. My future body will be eternal, perfected, new, and spiritual. (43) That’s good news for everyone growing “old”!!!
All humans are natural descendants of Adam. All believers are spiritual descendants of Christ. (45) Humanity is lost and perishable - believers become found and eternal! (46) Adam came from dust, Jesus came from heaven. (47) We can be like either - which would you rather be like??!!! (48-49)
In our humanity, we cannot experience the amazing heaven God has prepared – where He will live with His followers forever. (50) Here is a cool secret – not all believers will experience death. Some of us will experience the Rapture – but all believers will experience a new reality with a brand-new body! (51) Our metamorphosis will be instantaneous! (52) In Christ, we can experience a new reality!
To get around in the afterlife, you need a new body! (53) This new body allows us victory over death. (54) Death cannot snatch our recreated glorified bodies! (55) We will have complete victory over the grave! The law causes sin which causes death. (56) Victory over all this is found in Jesus Christ! (57)
Stand firm! (58) Give yourself completely to God’s work – because your body is only temporary but your soul is permanent! (59)
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
The Truth about the Resurrection...1 Cor. 15:12-34
Please read 1 Corinthians 15:12-34 before reading...
What a powerful argument Paul makes in the following verses for the resurrection!
12. If Christ raised, there MUST be resurrection of dead
13. If no resurrection, Christ NOT raised
14. If Christ not raised…preaching + faith = useless!
15. and we are false witnesses.
16. If dead not raised, neither is Christ
17. If Christ not raised…faith = futile & believers still in sins
18. and all dead believers are permanently lost.
19. If resurrection is a lie, Christians are the most pitiable people
20. Christ DID raise - His resurrection was the first fruits of those who have died (meaning more to come)
21. Death came through one man, so can life/resurrection
22. All people experience death through Adam, all people can experience life through Jesus
23. At the proper time, Christ will return and the dead will rise
24. When Jesus destroys the work of sin and Satan and hands the kingdom to God, the end will come.
25. Jesus will reign until He has defeated every opponent
26. The final enemy to be defeated is death
27. Everything (but God the Father) will submit to Christ
28. After this is complete, the Son will submit to the Father and they will reign in complete perfection
29. If the resurrection is false, why baptize? (very confusing verse)
30. If the resurrection is false, why do we even try to live the Christian life and put ourselves in danger?
31. Why risk death daily without future hope?
32. If resurrection is false, let us party hard – because this life is all we get!
33. Steer clear of corrupting influences
34. Come back to your senses and begin living like there is a future life and judgment!!!
The Apostle Paul nips this heresy (of no resurrection) in the bud! He challenges the Corinthian church with a series of logical arguments. Without the resurrection, our faith is useless. There is nothing better to do than party and enjoy this life. If you reject the resurrection of the dead, then be a hedonist. If you want to be a Christian, then live today like there will be a tomorrow. Be motivated by future judgment and future reward. Risk your life and health for the Gospel. After all, that is the only thing that really matters. Everything else is just temporary. Some of us will find that out too late.
What a powerful argument Paul makes in the following verses for the resurrection!
12. If Christ raised, there MUST be resurrection of dead
13. If no resurrection, Christ NOT raised
14. If Christ not raised…preaching + faith = useless!
15. and we are false witnesses.
16. If dead not raised, neither is Christ
17. If Christ not raised…faith = futile & believers still in sins
18. and all dead believers are permanently lost.
19. If resurrection is a lie, Christians are the most pitiable people
20. Christ DID raise - His resurrection was the first fruits of those who have died (meaning more to come)
21. Death came through one man, so can life/resurrection
22. All people experience death through Adam, all people can experience life through Jesus
23. At the proper time, Christ will return and the dead will rise
24. When Jesus destroys the work of sin and Satan and hands the kingdom to God, the end will come.
25. Jesus will reign until He has defeated every opponent
26. The final enemy to be defeated is death
27. Everything (but God the Father) will submit to Christ
28. After this is complete, the Son will submit to the Father and they will reign in complete perfection
29. If the resurrection is false, why baptize? (very confusing verse)
30. If the resurrection is false, why do we even try to live the Christian life and put ourselves in danger?
31. Why risk death daily without future hope?
32. If resurrection is false, let us party hard – because this life is all we get!
33. Steer clear of corrupting influences
34. Come back to your senses and begin living like there is a future life and judgment!!!
The Apostle Paul nips this heresy (of no resurrection) in the bud! He challenges the Corinthian church with a series of logical arguments. Without the resurrection, our faith is useless. There is nothing better to do than party and enjoy this life. If you reject the resurrection of the dead, then be a hedonist. If you want to be a Christian, then live today like there will be a tomorrow. Be motivated by future judgment and future reward. Risk your life and health for the Gospel. After all, that is the only thing that really matters. Everything else is just temporary. Some of us will find that out too late.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The Real Gospel...1 Cor. 15:1-11
Please read 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 before reading...
Reminder...here is the real Gospel (1-2):
- which you received as your foundation
- which saved you
- which is the only truth
- which makes life worthwhile
Real Gospel means Christ fulfilled the Messianic prophecies (3-8):
- He died for our sins
- He was buried
- He was raised on the 3rd day
- He appeared to the 12 apostles, more than 500 believers, and Paul in a later vision
Paul’s take on his salvation:
- I am the most insignificant apostle
- I am least deserving
- I persecuted God’s people
- God’s grace reached me and changed me
- God has enabled me to work harder than all the apostles
After reading Paul's words, I must ask myself the following questions:
1. What does the Gospel mean to me?
2. What are the elements of the true Gospel?
3. How do I view my salvation and calling in light of Paul's perspective?
Reminder...here is the real Gospel (1-2):
- which you received as your foundation
- which saved you
- which is the only truth
- which makes life worthwhile
Real Gospel means Christ fulfilled the Messianic prophecies (3-8):
- He died for our sins
- He was buried
- He was raised on the 3rd day
- He appeared to the 12 apostles, more than 500 believers, and Paul in a later vision
Paul’s take on his salvation:
- I am the most insignificant apostle
- I am least deserving
- I persecuted God’s people
- God’s grace reached me and changed me
- God has enabled me to work harder than all the apostles
After reading Paul's words, I must ask myself the following questions:
1. What does the Gospel mean to me?
2. What are the elements of the true Gospel?
3. How do I view my salvation and calling in light of Paul's perspective?
Use your gift for others...1 Corithians 14
1 Corinthians 14 contains some of the richest nuggets of truth concerning spiritual gifts, specifically tongues:
"Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air." (9)
"Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church." (12)
"If you are praising God with your spirit, how can one who finds himself among those who do not understand say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? You may be giving thanks well enough, but the other man is not edified." (16-17)
"I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue." (18-19)
"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 God." (27-28)
"For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." (33)
These are just a few highlights from this chapter. Paul was regulating the practice of a spiritual gift that had turned the Corinthian church into a circus. Converted pagans were using the gibberish pagan tongues in church thinking they were authentic.
Paul used the singular "tongue" to slam this pagan counterfeit and the plural "tongues" to uphold the legitimate sign gift. Throughout this chapter he uses sarcasm to make his point that the proclamation of Scripture is the most edifying gift to exercise in church. Gibberish builds up no one!
How ironic that the very chapter most charismatics use as a proof for practicing tongues is actually a harsh treatise regulating the sign gift and seeking to abolish its pagan counterfeit. The irony drips heavier when we see that women are not allowed to teach or have authority over men in church. Most charismatic churches practice just the opposite, while still using this chapter!
Spiritual gifts were never meant to be self-edifying. They were given to you at salvation to build up the church. Practicing a spiritual gift privately (as some do with "prayer languages") is not authorized in Scripture. My gift is to build you up, and yours is to build me up. How entirely selfish of me to think my gift was given for my edification or growth. I am one member in the body. Each member ministers to me, and I must find my place and minister to the body.
When I drive towards Binghamton, there are many signs giving me the mileage to my destination. As soon as I pass the city, the signs cease. There is no more need for Binghamton signs, because the city is behind me.
In the same way, tongues was a sign gift given for 3 purposes:
1. As a sign for unbelieving Jews of the authenticity of the Church - authority
2. As an indication that God's blessings had come to both Jews and Gentiles - blessing
3. As a warning of coming judgment (A.D. 70 this judgment by Rome was complete - no two stones were left standing in Jerusalem) - curse
Each of these 3 purposes has been complete. The early church was birthed, Gentiles were included, and judgment came to Israel. Then what is the current purpose of tongues?
Thanks for the powerful words of advice on this topic Paul! I am now more convinced than ever that even if the gift of tongues is active today - it is rarely, if ever, practiced legitimately and in-line with Paul's regulations.
"Unless you speak intelligible words with your tongue, how will anyone know what you are saying? You will just be speaking into the air." (9)
"Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church." (12)
"If you are praising God with your spirit, how can one who finds himself among those who do not understand say “Amen” to your thanksgiving, since he does not know what you are saying? You may be giving thanks well enough, but the other man is not edified." (16-17)
"I thank God that I speak in tongues more than all of you. But in the church I would rather speak five intelligible words to instruct others than ten thousand words in a tongue." (18-19)
"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 God." (27-28)
"For God is not a God of disorder but of peace." (33)
These are just a few highlights from this chapter. Paul was regulating the practice of a spiritual gift that had turned the Corinthian church into a circus. Converted pagans were using the gibberish pagan tongues in church thinking they were authentic.
Paul used the singular "tongue" to slam this pagan counterfeit and the plural "tongues" to uphold the legitimate sign gift. Throughout this chapter he uses sarcasm to make his point that the proclamation of Scripture is the most edifying gift to exercise in church. Gibberish builds up no one!
How ironic that the very chapter most charismatics use as a proof for practicing tongues is actually a harsh treatise regulating the sign gift and seeking to abolish its pagan counterfeit. The irony drips heavier when we see that women are not allowed to teach or have authority over men in church. Most charismatic churches practice just the opposite, while still using this chapter!
Spiritual gifts were never meant to be self-edifying. They were given to you at salvation to build up the church. Practicing a spiritual gift privately (as some do with "prayer languages") is not authorized in Scripture. My gift is to build you up, and yours is to build me up. How entirely selfish of me to think my gift was given for my edification or growth. I am one member in the body. Each member ministers to me, and I must find my place and minister to the body.
When I drive towards Binghamton, there are many signs giving me the mileage to my destination. As soon as I pass the city, the signs cease. There is no more need for Binghamton signs, because the city is behind me.
In the same way, tongues was a sign gift given for 3 purposes:
1. As a sign for unbelieving Jews of the authenticity of the Church - authority
2. As an indication that God's blessings had come to both Jews and Gentiles - blessing
3. As a warning of coming judgment (A.D. 70 this judgment by Rome was complete - no two stones were left standing in Jerusalem) - curse
Each of these 3 purposes has been complete. The early church was birthed, Gentiles were included, and judgment came to Israel. Then what is the current purpose of tongues?
Thanks for the powerful words of advice on this topic Paul! I am now more convinced than ever that even if the gift of tongues is active today - it is rarely, if ever, practiced legitimately and in-line with Paul's regulations.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Love is a CHOICE! 1 Cor. 13
I appreciate the discussions we have had on "agape" love from 1 Corinthians 13. Love truly is a choice, not a feeling. The opposite of this love is not hate - it is selfishness. Loving the way God requires is not humanly possible. It is a supernatural love that can only flow out of our hearts after God has put it there.
Everything within us is opposed to this sort of unconditional love. We fear getting hurt again. Yet love is making yourself vulnerable. Love is never losing hope, never giving up...and committing for life. No wonder the "Bachelor" leaves the "love of his life" for another girl - feelings are completely unpredictable and should NOT determine our actions! True love is choice - and feelings will be a benefit of that choice!
Our upcoming discussion will be returning to spiritual gifts, especially tongues.
As you 1 Cor. 13:8-13, think about these questions:
- When will the gifts of prophecy, tongues, and knowledge end according to this passage?
- What is the "perfection" in verse 10?
- What does "child" refer to in verse 11?
- What is this paragraph saying about spiritual gifts as it relates to love?
Everything within us is opposed to this sort of unconditional love. We fear getting hurt again. Yet love is making yourself vulnerable. Love is never losing hope, never giving up...and committing for life. No wonder the "Bachelor" leaves the "love of his life" for another girl - feelings are completely unpredictable and should NOT determine our actions! True love is choice - and feelings will be a benefit of that choice!
Our upcoming discussion will be returning to spiritual gifts, especially tongues.
As you 1 Cor. 13:8-13, think about these questions:
- When will the gifts of prophecy, tongues, and knowledge end according to this passage?
- What is the "perfection" in verse 10?
- What does "child" refer to in verse 11?
- What is this paragraph saying about spiritual gifts as it relates to love?
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
I don't need you!...1 Cor. 12:20-13:13
I don't need you!
Perhaps you haven't said it out loud...but we have all thought this. So had the believers at Corinth. Paul's writing doesn't challenge that independent thinking - he smashes it with a sledgehammer!
He declares the people in church that seem most insignificant to actually be the most crucial. He uses the analogy of the private parts of our body that we keep covered - these parts are vital for reproduction, pleasure, and nourishment. Without them, there would be no pleasure, no marriage, no kids, etc.
There are people at FCC who's gifts are hidden (private), but without them, our offering would not pay the bills, our church facilities would not be cleaned, our shut-ins would not be visited and cared for, our property would not be kept up, etc. There are many people serving and giving and caring and praying in ways you and I never see. They are faithful, sacrificial servants in our church. They deserve greater honor. They deserve to be treated with love and respect. They deserve to hear that "we really could not do it without you"!
In vs. 29, Paul lists seven public gifts that were functioning in the early church: apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, healing, tongues, and interpretation. He asks (to their shame) if everyone needs to have a public gift. He admits they are all desiring what they think to be the "greater gifts" (vs. 31), a.k.a. the public gifts. He replies: "Let me now show you the most excellent way..."
The Bible's most beautiful love chapter has now begun - 1 Corinthians 13. You would be hard pressed to attend a Christian wedding where this passage is not read publicly, in the bulletin, or somewhere listed on the favors! But hold on a second...look at the CONTEXT! This passage on love is not man & woman love - it is all about love in the body of Christ, within the church!!!
As we embark on a beautiful journey through chapter 13, keep the context in mind. This amazing "Agape" love is about the love you and I are supposed to have for each other. Somehow, as the Bride of Christ, God expects us to get along, to serve each other, and to love one another unconditionally.
Action Steps This Week:
1) Think of a few people in church who you dislike - and thank God for them right now. Realizing that we really need each other is a humbling process that takes a long, long time!
2) Define love - and bring this definition to class on Sunday!
Perhaps you haven't said it out loud...but we have all thought this. So had the believers at Corinth. Paul's writing doesn't challenge that independent thinking - he smashes it with a sledgehammer!
He declares the people in church that seem most insignificant to actually be the most crucial. He uses the analogy of the private parts of our body that we keep covered - these parts are vital for reproduction, pleasure, and nourishment. Without them, there would be no pleasure, no marriage, no kids, etc.
There are people at FCC who's gifts are hidden (private), but without them, our offering would not pay the bills, our church facilities would not be cleaned, our shut-ins would not be visited and cared for, our property would not be kept up, etc. There are many people serving and giving and caring and praying in ways you and I never see. They are faithful, sacrificial servants in our church. They deserve greater honor. They deserve to be treated with love and respect. They deserve to hear that "we really could not do it without you"!
In vs. 29, Paul lists seven public gifts that were functioning in the early church: apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, healing, tongues, and interpretation. He asks (to their shame) if everyone needs to have a public gift. He admits they are all desiring what they think to be the "greater gifts" (vs. 31), a.k.a. the public gifts. He replies: "Let me now show you the most excellent way..."
The Bible's most beautiful love chapter has now begun - 1 Corinthians 13. You would be hard pressed to attend a Christian wedding where this passage is not read publicly, in the bulletin, or somewhere listed on the favors! But hold on a second...look at the CONTEXT! This passage on love is not man & woman love - it is all about love in the body of Christ, within the church!!!
As we embark on a beautiful journey through chapter 13, keep the context in mind. This amazing "Agape" love is about the love you and I are supposed to have for each other. Somehow, as the Bride of Christ, God expects us to get along, to serve each other, and to love one another unconditionally.
Action Steps This Week:
1) Think of a few people in church who you dislike - and thank God for them right now. Realizing that we really need each other is a humbling process that takes a long, long time!
2) Define love - and bring this definition to class on Sunday!
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Spiritual Gifts Test
There is an abundance of online material about spiritual gifts. I have taken more spiritual gifts inventory than I can remember, but there is one that I really recommend: Elmer Towns Spiritual Gifts Inventory. You can link to it here: http://www.elmertowns.com/spiritual_gifts_test/.
Knowing your spiritual gifts is an important prerequisite to using them! Your church family would benefit from you living out your gifts within your local church. So take the test today, and begin living out your supernatural abilities!!!
Knowing your spiritual gifts is an important prerequisite to using them! Your church family would benefit from you living out your gifts within your local church. So take the test today, and begin living out your supernatural abilities!!!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
One of many...1 Cor. 12:12-31
Have you ever sat next to someone in church that you disliked? Did you ignore them and head for the door as soon as you heard the final "Amen"? What if God told you that the person sitting next to you was absolutely indispensable to your spiritual well-being? Would this change your attitude towards them? Please read on for some tough-to-swallow words from Scripture:
VERSE:
(remember to substitute "believer" with "part" throughout Paul's metaphor)
12. You are one of many - in the body of Christ, you are an ear, or a hand, or a mouth, or something else. FCC is collectively one body, just as Christ is one body.
13. All of us believers at FCC have been saved by the same Holy Spirit - without regard to our family background or social class. ALL of us have the Holy Spirit!
14. FCC has many "parts"
15-16. No "part" of your body can choose to leave or change its unique function
17. If our body had only one "part" - imagine how scary we would be!
18. God chose our "parts" - it is His decision, and He has no regrets
19. Could you really survive with just one "part"?!!
20. Truth: many parts, one body
21. No one "part" can live independently of another "part"
22. Amazingly, the weakest "parts" of the body are the ones you cannot live without! (imagine losing your small toe, or thumb, or eyes, or liver, etc!)
23. We are very self-conscious and protective of our "private parts"
24. God purposely designed the weaker/hidden "parts" to have greater honor/significance/value
25. This makes each "part" equal in significance
26. Since your parts are connected, pain or excitement felt by one "part" of the body is felt by all. (Have you ever slammed your finger in a door, and breathed a sigh of relief because your toes felt so good?!!!)
27. Truth: FCC is the body of Christ - each of us is a "part"
28. God has appointed "parts" with specific gifts
29-30. Do we all share the same gift/function/part in the body of Christ?(Rhetorical question expecting a NO!)
31. There is a lot of "parts" jealousy swirling through FCC - let me show you a better way! (chapter 13 is that "better way")
Some Questions:
Have you ever been jealous of the abilities of another believer at FCC?
Why do we ignore someone at church who is struggling and focus on the person who is happy?
Why is it so hard for us to accept some people in our church and not others?
Which believers in our church have the “background/private” gifts that we often don’t see? What are these private gifts?
Do you think that FCC is functioning as it should with each believer using his gifts? According to this passage, is it okay if 99% of our members are serving and using their gifts?
VERSE:
(remember to substitute "believer" with "part" throughout Paul's metaphor)
12. You are one of many - in the body of Christ, you are an ear, or a hand, or a mouth, or something else. FCC is collectively one body, just as Christ is one body.
13. All of us believers at FCC have been saved by the same Holy Spirit - without regard to our family background or social class. ALL of us have the Holy Spirit!
14. FCC has many "parts"
15-16. No "part" of your body can choose to leave or change its unique function
17. If our body had only one "part" - imagine how scary we would be!
18. God chose our "parts" - it is His decision, and He has no regrets
19. Could you really survive with just one "part"?!!
20. Truth: many parts, one body
21. No one "part" can live independently of another "part"
22. Amazingly, the weakest "parts" of the body are the ones you cannot live without! (imagine losing your small toe, or thumb, or eyes, or liver, etc!)
23. We are very self-conscious and protective of our "private parts"
24. God purposely designed the weaker/hidden "parts" to have greater honor/significance/value
25. This makes each "part" equal in significance
26. Since your parts are connected, pain or excitement felt by one "part" of the body is felt by all. (Have you ever slammed your finger in a door, and breathed a sigh of relief because your toes felt so good?!!!)
27. Truth: FCC is the body of Christ - each of us is a "part"
28. God has appointed "parts" with specific gifts
29-30. Do we all share the same gift/function/part in the body of Christ?(Rhetorical question expecting a NO!)
31. There is a lot of "parts" jealousy swirling through FCC - let me show you a better way! (chapter 13 is that "better way")
Some Questions:
Have you ever been jealous of the abilities of another believer at FCC?
Why do we ignore someone at church who is struggling and focus on the person who is happy?
Why is it so hard for us to accept some people in our church and not others?
Which believers in our church have the “background/private” gifts that we often don’t see? What are these private gifts?
Do you think that FCC is functioning as it should with each believer using his gifts? According to this passage, is it okay if 99% of our members are serving and using their gifts?
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
GIFTS! 1 Cor. 12-14
At Christmas, our minds are slightly preoccupied with gifts. Guys, we need to find that perfect gift for our wife that she will actually use. Women, you need to find that ideal gift for your husband that won't end up in the back of his closet. Parents, you need to find just the right toy for your kid - not too expensive, yet one that he can show off to his friends. It is a yearly challenge for all of us!
In the spirit of Christmas, 1 Corinthians 12 begins what hopefully will be a life-changing discussion on "gifts" of a different sort. It just so happens that God saw fit to give you some amazingly unique gifts tailor-suited for both you and First Christian Church. These gifts were hand-chosen by God to benefit all of us.
Have you unpacked your gifts yet? If not, I hope that by the end of this series of lessons you will. When you and I use our gifts, I guarantee your “blessing” circuit will blow a fuse. There is nothing like being on the receiving end of someone else’s supernatural gifts!!!
Here are the following “gifts myths” that I believe the Apostle Paul was trying to bust:
1) I don’t need to know my gift to exercise it
2) I am born with my gifts – they are my natural abilities that God uses
3) I have one spiritual gift
4) I don’t have gift “X”, so I can’t serve in ministry “Y”
5) I can choose which gift I have by praying and working real hard to get it
Somewhere underneath all this confusion lies untapped energy. There is no governmental agency that can regulate its use. So open your Bibles with me, and let’s begin digging!
In the spirit of Christmas, 1 Corinthians 12 begins what hopefully will be a life-changing discussion on "gifts" of a different sort. It just so happens that God saw fit to give you some amazingly unique gifts tailor-suited for both you and First Christian Church. These gifts were hand-chosen by God to benefit all of us.
Have you unpacked your gifts yet? If not, I hope that by the end of this series of lessons you will. When you and I use our gifts, I guarantee your “blessing” circuit will blow a fuse. There is nothing like being on the receiving end of someone else’s supernatural gifts!!!
Here are the following “gifts myths” that I believe the Apostle Paul was trying to bust:
1) I don’t need to know my gift to exercise it
2) I am born with my gifts – they are my natural abilities that God uses
3) I have one spiritual gift
4) I don’t have gift “X”, so I can’t serve in ministry “Y”
5) I can choose which gift I have by praying and working real hard to get it
Somewhere underneath all this confusion lies untapped energy. There is no governmental agency that can regulate its use. So open your Bibles with me, and let’s begin digging!
Monday, December 1, 2008
no praise from paul...1 Cor. 11:17-34
What would it be like to get a hand-written letter from the Apostle Paul to FCC? With great anticipation, we read through the fairly long letter on a Sunday morning during our service. Suddenly, we reach chapter 11, verse 17: "In the following directives I have no praise for you, for your meetings do more harm than good."
There is a collective gasp as puzzled faces become looks of astonishment and bewilderment. Did you really mean that Paul? Do you really think that our services are a waste of time? Or worse than a waste, they are damaging?
We try to mentally brace ourselves for a lashing as Paul continues (17-22):
1) You are missing a spirit of unity
2) You serve communion but are not actually practicing it
3) You humiliate your brothers and sisters in Christ
We listen with a wounded heart as Paul shares some truth (23-26):
1) On the night of his betrayal Jesus instituted communion
2) The bread and cup represent His body and blood given for us
3) Each time you practice communion you proclaim the act of redemption and anticipate His glorious return
We take notes as Paul explains why our church is not growing (27-32):
1) Practicing communion unworthily is a grave sin...examination before communion is a must
2) Partaking of communion wrong is like partaking of judgment...it's suicide!
3) Self-judgment prevents divine-judgment
4) Divine-discipline prevents eternal-judgment
We prepare to change as Paul offers practical solutions (33-34):
1) Be considerate of others
2) Take care of your needs at home
As we listen to this thrashing from the Apostle Paul to the Corinthian Church, I cannot help but wonder if I should feel convicted. Do I practice communion unworthily? Do I contribute to disunity at FCC? Do I show a lack of consideration towards others? Do I practice self-judgment and welcome divine-discipline? What about you?
There is a collective gasp as puzzled faces become looks of astonishment and bewilderment. Did you really mean that Paul? Do you really think that our services are a waste of time? Or worse than a waste, they are damaging?
We try to mentally brace ourselves for a lashing as Paul continues (17-22):
1) You are missing a spirit of unity
2) You serve communion but are not actually practicing it
3) You humiliate your brothers and sisters in Christ
We listen with a wounded heart as Paul shares some truth (23-26):
1) On the night of his betrayal Jesus instituted communion
2) The bread and cup represent His body and blood given for us
3) Each time you practice communion you proclaim the act of redemption and anticipate His glorious return
We take notes as Paul explains why our church is not growing (27-32):
1) Practicing communion unworthily is a grave sin...examination before communion is a must
2) Partaking of communion wrong is like partaking of judgment...it's suicide!
3) Self-judgment prevents divine-judgment
4) Divine-discipline prevents eternal-judgment
We prepare to change as Paul offers practical solutions (33-34):
1) Be considerate of others
2) Take care of your needs at home
As we listen to this thrashing from the Apostle Paul to the Corinthian Church, I cannot help but wonder if I should feel convicted. Do I practice communion unworthily? Do I contribute to disunity at FCC? Do I show a lack of consideration towards others? Do I practice self-judgment and welcome divine-discipline? What about you?
Monday, November 3, 2008
Cultural Symbol or Sacred Command?...1 Cor. 11:2-16
Paul never minds stoking the fire. He realizes that FCC (First Church of Corinth) is messed up when it comes to worshiping as a community! So he writes this passage to put women...and men....in line.
Verse by verse:
2 - Obey God's words, all of them. You can't pick and choose what to obey!
3 - God-Christ-Man-Woman...in that order....obviously not significance, but role!
4 - Male head covering while prayer/prophesying = BAD
5 - Female without head covering while praying/prophesying = BAD
6 - Female head covering while praying/prophesying = GOOD
7 - Man is image/glory of God....Woman is image/glory of man
8 - Woman (Eve) came from Man (Adam), not vice-versa
9 - Woman created for Man, not vice-versa
10 - Female head covering a must, says Gabriel and pals
11 - Men and women need each other
12 - Neither can exist without other
13 - Isn't this teaching obvious?
14 - Don't you look twice at a long-haired man?
15 - Don't you look twice at a bald woman?
16 - This principle is consistent for all churches everywhere!
Alright, so that was a quick breakdown of those 15 verses in my own words. However, I haven't answered these questions:
1) What does this mean?
2) Is the Bible sexist? Are men "over" women?
3) Must women wear head coverings in the church today?
4) Are there any current symbols of male/female roles in our culture?
Looking forward to hearing your answers (or angry questions) on Sunday! :)
Verse by verse:
2 - Obey God's words, all of them. You can't pick and choose what to obey!
3 - God-Christ-Man-Woman...in that order....obviously not significance, but role!
4 - Male head covering while prayer/prophesying = BAD
5 - Female without head covering while praying/prophesying = BAD
6 - Female head covering while praying/prophesying = GOOD
7 - Man is image/glory of God....Woman is image/glory of man
8 - Woman (Eve) came from Man (Adam), not vice-versa
9 - Woman created for Man, not vice-versa
10 - Female head covering a must, says Gabriel and pals
11 - Men and women need each other
12 - Neither can exist without other
13 - Isn't this teaching obvious?
14 - Don't you look twice at a long-haired man?
15 - Don't you look twice at a bald woman?
16 - This principle is consistent for all churches everywhere!
Alright, so that was a quick breakdown of those 15 verses in my own words. However, I haven't answered these questions:
1) What does this mean?
2) Is the Bible sexist? Are men "over" women?
3) Must women wear head coverings in the church today?
4) Are there any current symbols of male/female roles in our culture?
Looking forward to hearing your answers (or angry questions) on Sunday! :)
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Women's doilies?....1 Cor. 11:1-16
Please read and think about this passage, and come to class prepared to defend your conclusions!
Happy Thinking!!! :)
1 Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. 2 Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you.
3 But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. 5 But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved. 6 For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered.
7 For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. 8 For man is not from woman, but woman from man. 9 Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man. 10 For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 Nevertheless, neither is man independent of woman, nor woman independent of man, in the Lord. 12 For as woman came from man, even so man also comes through woman; but all things are from God.
13 Judge among yourselves. Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not even nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a dishonor to him? 15 But if a woman has long hair, it is a glory to her; for her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God.
1 Corinthians 11:1-16 (NKJV)Happy Thinking!!! :)
Monday, October 6, 2008
God's glory my only desire...1 Cor. 10:25-33
We are tackling a great passage this week! There are many nuances that make this a tad confusing. But when you unknot Paul’s argument, you will find some very rich nuggets of truth for your life. Let’s go verse-by-verse using NLT:
25 So you may eat any meat that is sold in the marketplace without raising questions of conscience.
Paul says we are free to eat anything. Food is amoral.
26 For “the earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it.”
God creates perfection. Humans and our sin may pollute creation, but God didn’t make anything bad!
27 If someone who isn’t a believer asks you home for dinner, accept the invitation if you want to. Eat whatever is offered to you without raising questions of conscience.
The Creator has made everything clean – feel free to enjoy your dinner! Because of the food offered to idol issue, Paul offers a “Don’t ask, don’t tell” solution.
28 (But suppose someone tells you, “This meat was offered to an idol.” Don’t eat it, out of consideration for the conscience of the one who told you. 29 It might not be a matter of conscience for you, but it is for the other person.)
Someone at the meal brings to your attention that the meat was offered to an idol. Since they mentioned it, it might be important to them. As a courtesy, refrain from eating the meat. You may offend your host, but better to offend your host than cause someone to stumble. The last thing I want to do is cause someone to violate their conscience. If they are a weak brother or sister, I should build them up. Flaunting my freedom to eat the meat may harm them spiritually, and God would then hold me accountable.
For why should my freedom be limited by what someone else thinks? 30 If I can thank God for the food and enjoy it, why should I be condemned for eating it?
Great questions, Paul! Because you taught us that eating is amoral, but causing someone to stumble is immoral. So at times, I must limit my freedom for the sake of others. It is that scary attitude of SELFLESSNESS that we practice so rarely!
31 So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
God’s glory - this is the bottom line! If I can honestly say that God will be happy by my eating or abstaining, then I am doing the right thing.
32 Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God.
Very interesting categories affirming that the church is NOT Israel! Do not cause Jews, non-Jews, or New Testament believers to stumble!
33 I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.
Paul says that he tries to “please” or literally “accommodate” everyone! This is not about being a chameleon and walking on eggshells. It is about putting my needs last. It is about prioritizing the needs of others.
Paul did all this so that “many may be saved”. Paul cared deeply about the condition of the souls of others. The Corinthians did not. Their actions (idolatry, immorality, and division) proved they cared only about themselves. That is NOT a healthy New Testament community!
The community Paul envisioned is one where…
…preserving the clean conscience of a fellow believer is my priority
…the lost soul of an unbeliever impacts me deeply and changes my behavior
…my own preferences and desires are put on the back burner for the sake of God’s glory and other’s edification.
Head Scratcher of the week:
What are the three character traits I need the most to accomplish this?
1. _________________
2. _________________
3. _________________
25 So you may eat any meat that is sold in the marketplace without raising questions of conscience.
Paul says we are free to eat anything. Food is amoral.
26 For “the earth is the LORD’s, and everything in it.”
God creates perfection. Humans and our sin may pollute creation, but God didn’t make anything bad!
27 If someone who isn’t a believer asks you home for dinner, accept the invitation if you want to. Eat whatever is offered to you without raising questions of conscience.
The Creator has made everything clean – feel free to enjoy your dinner! Because of the food offered to idol issue, Paul offers a “Don’t ask, don’t tell” solution.
28 (But suppose someone tells you, “This meat was offered to an idol.” Don’t eat it, out of consideration for the conscience of the one who told you. 29 It might not be a matter of conscience for you, but it is for the other person.)
Someone at the meal brings to your attention that the meat was offered to an idol. Since they mentioned it, it might be important to them. As a courtesy, refrain from eating the meat. You may offend your host, but better to offend your host than cause someone to stumble. The last thing I want to do is cause someone to violate their conscience. If they are a weak brother or sister, I should build them up. Flaunting my freedom to eat the meat may harm them spiritually, and God would then hold me accountable.
For why should my freedom be limited by what someone else thinks? 30 If I can thank God for the food and enjoy it, why should I be condemned for eating it?
Great questions, Paul! Because you taught us that eating is amoral, but causing someone to stumble is immoral. So at times, I must limit my freedom for the sake of others. It is that scary attitude of SELFLESSNESS that we practice so rarely!
31 So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
God’s glory - this is the bottom line! If I can honestly say that God will be happy by my eating or abstaining, then I am doing the right thing.
32 Don’t give offense to Jews or Gentiles or the church of God.
Very interesting categories affirming that the church is NOT Israel! Do not cause Jews, non-Jews, or New Testament believers to stumble!
33 I, too, try to please everyone in everything I do. I don’t just do what is best for me; I do what is best for others so that many may be saved.
Paul says that he tries to “please” or literally “accommodate” everyone! This is not about being a chameleon and walking on eggshells. It is about putting my needs last. It is about prioritizing the needs of others.
Paul did all this so that “many may be saved”. Paul cared deeply about the condition of the souls of others. The Corinthians did not. Their actions (idolatry, immorality, and division) proved they cared only about themselves. That is NOT a healthy New Testament community!
The community Paul envisioned is one where…
…preserving the clean conscience of a fellow believer is my priority
…the lost soul of an unbeliever impacts me deeply and changes my behavior
…my own preferences and desires are put on the back burner for the sake of God’s glory and other’s edification.
Head Scratcher of the week:
What are the three character traits I need the most to accomplish this?
1. _________________
2. _________________
3. _________________
To honor God and build others up – live selflessly!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
it’s not about me! 1 Cor. 10:24
I was do doing discipleship with a new believer a few months ago. He asked me to clarify something he had read in the Purpose Driven Life. These words are found in Chapter 1:
“It’s not about you.
The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It’s far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by his purpose and for his purpose. The search for the purpose of life has puzzled people for thousands of years. That’s because we typically begin at the wrong starting point - ourselves…
You were made for God, not vice versa, and life is about letting God use you for his purposes, not your using him for your own purpose.”
As we discussed this chapter, I was floored to see that he was not only shocked by this radical view of life, but he had embraced it! He wondered if he was accurate to realign his life with these new priorities – God and others first, himself last.
I stammered in amazed delight – he had grasped a truth even I had not fully embraced. Life is not about me!
Look at the two greatest commandments: love God and love others (Matt. 22:37-40). Where am I in that equation? I am the subject – God and others are the object. I am the giver – not the receiver.
It is in this spirit Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:24: “Let no one seek his own good, but that of others.”
This is a command we wish children would obey! This is a command all of us must learn. However, practicing selflessness is in utter contradiction to our human nature!
Here are some burning questions:
1. Why do I find it so hard to set aside my feelings, hurts, and expectations?
2. What have I done recently to seek the good of someone else above myself?
3. How committed am I to putting others before myself?
4. What will I do this week to seek the good of someone above myself? (Come to class prepared to share what you did!)
In a Christian community,
I am last – others are first.
“It’s not about you.
The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It’s far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by his purpose and for his purpose. The search for the purpose of life has puzzled people for thousands of years. That’s because we typically begin at the wrong starting point - ourselves…
You were made for God, not vice versa, and life is about letting God use you for his purposes, not your using him for your own purpose.”
As we discussed this chapter, I was floored to see that he was not only shocked by this radical view of life, but he had embraced it! He wondered if he was accurate to realign his life with these new priorities – God and others first, himself last.
I stammered in amazed delight – he had grasped a truth even I had not fully embraced. Life is not about me!
Look at the two greatest commandments: love God and love others (Matt. 22:37-40). Where am I in that equation? I am the subject – God and others are the object. I am the giver – not the receiver.
It is in this spirit Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:24: “Let no one seek his own good, but that of others.”
This is a command we wish children would obey! This is a command all of us must learn. However, practicing selflessness is in utter contradiction to our human nature!
Here are some burning questions:
1. Why do I find it so hard to set aside my feelings, hurts, and expectations?
2. What have I done recently to seek the good of someone else above myself?
3. How committed am I to putting others before myself?
4. What will I do this week to seek the good of someone above myself? (Come to class prepared to share what you did!)
In a Christian community,
I am last – others are first.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
It’s MY life! 1 Cor. 10:23
How many times have you heard someone when confronted in sin reply: “It’s MY life”??!!! Christians from Corinth to Kirkwood and everywhere in-between use this excuse.
Take a deeper look with me at Paul’s powerfully potent words:
“All things are lawful,”
but not all things are helpful.
“All things are lawful,”
but not all things build up. (ESV)
Paul is trying to expose the selfishness of the average Corinthian John and Jane. They were living their lives as if they were an island. What they did was their own personal business. “Leave my private life alone” they declared.
Paul again mocks the Corinthian adage that “all things are lawful” and that private choices don’t really matter to the community (see 6:12 also). God does give me freedom in Christ. But, NOT every choice, behavior, or action is helpful. Only certain choices, behaviors, and actions build up.
Burning Question: Can I really live however I want? Is it really MY life?
Weekly Nuggets:
~ If you are a Christian, you no longer own your life.
~ Your character is who you are & what you do – in public AND in private.
~ You may be making private choices that are tearing others down.
The wall between our home and our church
is thinner than we may think.
Take a deeper look with me at Paul’s powerfully potent words:
“All things are lawful,”
but not all things are helpful.
“All things are lawful,”
but not all things build up. (ESV)
Paul is trying to expose the selfishness of the average Corinthian John and Jane. They were living their lives as if they were an island. What they did was their own personal business. “Leave my private life alone” they declared.
Paul again mocks the Corinthian adage that “all things are lawful” and that private choices don’t really matter to the community (see 6:12 also). God does give me freedom in Christ. But, NOT every choice, behavior, or action is helpful. Only certain choices, behaviors, and actions build up.
Burning Question: Can I really live however I want? Is it really MY life?
Weekly Nuggets:
~ If you are a Christian, you no longer own your life.
~ Your character is who you are & what you do – in public AND in private.
~ You may be making private choices that are tearing others down.
The wall between our home and our church
is thinner than we may think.
How do I practice idolatry? PART II 1 Cor. 10:12-22
Thanks for the excellent discussion in class this week! We are asking the question: How do I practice idolatry?
Let us begin by asking: “What is idolatry?” Idolatry simply put is “worship – of anything than God”. Wondering what you worship? Simply look at 15 of the largest industries in America:
1) Starbucks, McDonalds…Fast food industry – the idol of my convenience
2) Planet Fitness… body building/workout industry – the idol of my body
3) GNC stores…health industry– the idol of my health
4) Adult entertainment, Playboy, online pornography…sex industry – the idol of my lust
5) Hollywood, Regal cinemas…movie industry – the idol of my entertainment
6) NFL, NHL, NBA, NCAA…all things sports – the idol of my pride & human fitness
7) American Idol, America’s Got Talent… pop culture fame – the idol of my fame
8) IPods, ITunes, MP3…music – the idol of my music
9) Wal-Mart, Target…retailers – the idol of my wants
10) Ford, Toyota, GM…auto makers – the idol of my self-image
11) Citigroup, HSBC, Capital One, Visions…banks, credit cards – the idol of my greed
12) AT&T, Verizon, Time Warner…phone companies – the idol of my gossip
13) DishTV, DirecTV…cable TV – the idol of my laziness
14) Century 21, ReMaxx…realty – the idol of my discontent
15) Applebees, Tullys, Ponderosa…restaurants – the idol of my gluttony
I could go on and on. So could you. We have so many idols! Do you notice they all came back to me? Our idolatrous society is no different from India with their many gods. We just call our gods by other names.
“But I don’t worship them,” you say. Idolatry isn’t about bowing down. It’s about distracting us from True Worship. For the Corinthians, it meant going into a temple. For us, we live IN the temple! Our culture immerses us in the worship of ourselves and our lusts.
Think about it. How much of your week is spent in True Worship of God? How much is spent in worship of the above “idols”? Are you distracted? I am too.
Maybe you don’t have an idol – maybe you are one! Perhaps we struggle more with idolatry than we realize.
Perhaps we are really worshipping ourselves!
Let us begin by asking: “What is idolatry?” Idolatry simply put is “worship – of anything than God”. Wondering what you worship? Simply look at 15 of the largest industries in America:
1) Starbucks, McDonalds…Fast food industry – the idol of my convenience
2) Planet Fitness… body building/workout industry – the idol of my body
3) GNC stores…health industry– the idol of my health
4) Adult entertainment, Playboy, online pornography…sex industry – the idol of my lust
5) Hollywood, Regal cinemas…movie industry – the idol of my entertainment
6) NFL, NHL, NBA, NCAA…all things sports – the idol of my pride & human fitness
7) American Idol, America’s Got Talent… pop culture fame – the idol of my fame
8) IPods, ITunes, MP3…music – the idol of my music
9) Wal-Mart, Target…retailers – the idol of my wants
10) Ford, Toyota, GM…auto makers – the idol of my self-image
11) Citigroup, HSBC, Capital One, Visions…banks, credit cards – the idol of my greed
12) AT&T, Verizon, Time Warner…phone companies – the idol of my gossip
13) DishTV, DirecTV…cable TV – the idol of my laziness
14) Century 21, ReMaxx…realty – the idol of my discontent
15) Applebees, Tullys, Ponderosa…restaurants – the idol of my gluttony
I could go on and on. So could you. We have so many idols! Do you notice they all came back to me? Our idolatrous society is no different from India with their many gods. We just call our gods by other names.
“But I don’t worship them,” you say. Idolatry isn’t about bowing down. It’s about distracting us from True Worship. For the Corinthians, it meant going into a temple. For us, we live IN the temple! Our culture immerses us in the worship of ourselves and our lusts.
Think about it. How much of your week is spent in True Worship of God? How much is spent in worship of the above “idols”? Are you distracted? I am too.
Maybe you don’t have an idol – maybe you are one! Perhaps we struggle more with idolatry than we realize.
Perhaps we are really worshipping ourselves!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
How do I practice idolatry? 1 Cor. 10:12-22
Last week we concluded that the three major temptations faced by Israel were: immorality, idolatry, and ingratitude. What were they supposed to be practicing? Purity, true worship, and trust/gratitude. If we could learn to practice these three behaviors, our lives & families & churches would be so drastically different!
The passage for this week is1 Corinthians 10:12-22. (Please read in NLT if available!)
This week continues the theme of idolatry from chapter 10. I have thought long and hard about idolatry the past few weeks. Isn’t this an outdated sin? Well, most commentators say that it is anything that comes before God in my life. So I suppose idolatry is everything! This is much too broad to have application for me.
What do you think about idolatry? How is idolatry different today than it was for the Corinthians? How is it the same? What does American idolatry look like?
I have come to some conclusions in my life that blew me away. It was after I asked myself lots of questions. What does my culture value? What do I value?
When it comes to idolatry, eventually you lose control. Eventually your idol eats your time, money, and family. You are at its mercy.
How do you commit idolatry? Answering this question was hard for me and will be for you. But it is a question we both must answer.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
we are no different…1 Cor. 10:1-11 (NLT)
1 I don’t want you to forget, dear brothers and sisters, about our ancestors in the wilderness long ago.
Paul was concerned that the Corinthian believers were unaware of their spiritual history. He wants to eradicate their ignorance, and replace it with historically accurate truth. The following historical facts he considers crucial to their present walk:
All of them
were guided by a cloud
that moved ahead of them,
and all of them
walked through the sea
on dry ground. 2
In the cloud
and in the sea,
all of them were baptized
as followers of Moses.
3 All of them ate the same spiritual food,
4 and all of them drank the same spiritual water.
For they drank from the spiritual rock that traveled with them,
and that rock was Christ.
How shocking this would have been for a Jewish believer to comprehend. Jesus Christ, the cornerstone of the Church, was also the source of life for Israel thousands of years prior to His birth! They had the same Jesus we do. They were eerily similar to a “church”. They had a community with shared experiences and teaching – and where did it get them?
5 Yet God was not pleased with most of them,
and their bodies were scattered in the wilderness.
Ouch! Could Paul possibly have been more harsh? They (the Jewish slave escapees from Egypt) were quite similar to us (believers in Corinth/Kirkwood). And the punch line is --- they were NOT acceptable to God. Somehow, they disqualified themselves.
6 These things happened as a warning to us,
so that we would not crave evil things as they did, 7
or worship idols as some of them did.
Yikes, their deaths became our object lesson. Their God is my God. Their disobedience my disobedience. Why am I not more afraid that their fate could become mine?
As the Scriptures say,
“The people celebrated
with feasting and drinking,
and they indulged in pagan revelry.”
Shouldn’t I be trembling? My carnal cravings also lead to death. Here are take-home lessons Paul shouts out:
8 And we must not engage in sexual immorality
as some of them did,
causing 23,000 of them to die in one day.
Purity – a theme we have seen before in 1 Corithains. Absolutely essential for a child of God. God does not accept our immorality or our excuses. Are you failing morally? Get help! Are you struggling with a sexual addiction or fantasy? Seek counsel. The battle is not won alone. Losing this battle is not an option.
9 Nor should we put Christ to the test,
as some of them did
and then died from snakebites.
Testing God – a sin of unbelief. How big is my faith? Some of Israel’s faith was small enough to deserve venomous snakebites. Perhaps I should focus on growing my faith and increasing my dependence on God.
10 And don’t grumble as some of them did,
and then were destroyed by the angel of death.
Complaining – another theme of 1 Corinthians that seeps from many pages. Learn to be content! Stop being negative and muttering about how poor your life is. Do you think the angel of death is dead? I don’t think Paul believed that!
11 These things happened to them as examples for us.
They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.
You mean we are not all that different? That is exactly Paul’s point.
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