Concluding 1 Corinthians: Stand Firm in the Faith

I love the feeling of accomplishment that accompanies the achievement of a goal. We set out twenty two days ago on a trek through Paul's first letter to the church in Corinth. Today we conclude our readings in 1 Corinthians by highlighting a few last minute instructions Paul left in the minds of his first century readers.

Today's full reading: 1 Corinthians 16:1-24

"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love." (1 Corinthians 16:13-14 NIV)

"Be on your guard."

We need to stay keenly alert to the work of the Holy Spirit and the reality of the schemes of the evil one. A spiritual battle rages around us every day. Wake up to this truth. (see Proverbs 16:17)

"Stand firm in the faith."

If you fail to know what you believe and why you believe it you could easily be led astray. Don't believe the lies of the enemy, the world, or our flesh (the old self). Do not be duped. We must know the truth, embrace the truth, and proclaim the truth as we take a firm stand in the faith against the powers of darkness. (see John 8:32 and Ephesians 6:13)

"Be men of courage."

It will not be easy to take a true stand for Jesus Christ. If you proclaim who he really is most people will not be comfortable. In fact, when Jesus spoke of his divine nature (although it was clearly the truth) his enemies nailed him to a cross. You must be courageous. (see Joshua 1:7)

"Be strong."

God has given us the ability to understand his word and live it out in our lives. We must remain mentally sharp and full of the holy spirit in order to impact the world for Christ. Do all you can with what you have and depend on God to renew you strength. (see Isaiah 40:31)

"Do everything in love."

Ultimately, the reason we live contrary to our culture is because this is what real love looks like. God loved us and demonstrated it to us by going against our cultural standards. He befriended the outcasts of society and showed them that though the world may have rejected them God had not abandoned them. We need to be motivated by genuine love and compassion for every person on the planet. (see 1 Peter 4:8)

Today, as an act of worship, thank God for his word. Commit to receive it's truth into your life. Ask God to help you "Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong." and "Do everything in love."