05/06/2020 -Bible Study

Today, we resume our study of 1 Corinthians 16, from verse 10. It's always a good idea to quickly read over the few previous verses as a reminder of what we're looking at and as well, to set proper context for today. Please do so now.

Now read verses 10-11.

We don't know exactly where Timothy was at this time, but wherever he happened to be, he was on his way to see Paul and may stop off in Corinth on the way. Knowing that the Corinthians often showed little respect for his apostleship, Paul was quite concerned that they may in fact show contempt for the young Timothy, who was about 40 years old at the time. Being an unseasoned minister of the gospel, Timothy suffered not only from a lack of confidence, but also often showed disrespect. These two personality traits gave others reason to despise him. Paul would later address the young minister in 1 Timothy 4:12, encouraging him to show mature Christian behavior.

Verse 12 simply notes that the apostle Apollos would probably visit Corinth at some later date.

Verses 13 and 14 encourage the Corinthian believers to always be about the Lord's calling. Watch! Stand Firm! be Brave! be Strong! - all saying the same thing. Paul is getting close to the end of his epistle and wants to ensure that his final words serve as a powerful source of strength to his converts. In just a few short years, many Christians would be called to denounce their devotion to Jesus or suffer torture and death. For many, Paul's words here would not easily be forgotten, but would buttress the faith of those who would give their lives for Christ. The history of Christendom bears witness to the thousands who were fed to lions, jaguars and bears. Thousands would be crucified under Rome and multiple believers would serve as burning night lights for lavish outdoor parties of the roman emperor. The words: be Strong! be Brave! Stand Firm! had much greater meaning years after they were spoken! Please note that these words of encouragement were all borrowed from military language. As committed soldiers, the Corinthians were ordered to Stand their ground, as sentries, to Watch, do not break ranks and do not be disorderly. Since Paul believed that Jesus would return in his lifetime, he was sharing with Corinth, the kind of vigilance necessary for the believer. Further, despite all the military discipline encoded in Paul's words, the Corinthians are expected to demonstrate such behavior with love.

Verse 17 mentions three Greek names. Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus. Apparently Stephanas was the wealthy head of a household and the other two men were freed slaves of his. These three men, were the ones who took the letter of questions from Corinth to Paul in Ephesus. Paul is now sending them back home with his reply, now known as 1st Corinthians. We know that Fortunatus outlived Paul and served as a courier for Pope Clement 1st, probably around AD 70. Fortunatus bore another letter of encouragement from Clement in Rome to the church in Corinth. We also know that Clement was arrested and imprisoned in Rome. During his incarceration, he shared the message of Jesus Christ with fellow prisoners. As would be expected, this angered the emperor Trajan who ordered the saint's death. Clement would be tied to an anchor and after refusing to denounce his faith in Christ, was thrown into the sea.

Next week, if the Lord allows, we will pick up our study from verse 19 and complete this wonderful 16th chapter and book of 1 Corinthians.

The following week, I may indulge you on a brief examination of some bible prophecy. Hopefully we'll be able to complete it in 2-3 weeks. (No guarantees) Again, if the Lord permits, and only if He does, will we be able to enjoy that very exciting study.

Finally, tomorrow is America's National Day of Prayer and God knows we have much to pray about. Please join with fellow Americans all over this land in asking that the name of Jesus Christ be lit up with praise in the midst of the corona-virus pandemic. May the good Lord rebuke the horrible plague that surrounds us and keep us all safe.

Pastor Chandroo