2 Corinthians 1:3-11

As we go into Second Corinthians this week, Paul discusses receiving the Comfort of God. The dictionary provides two definitions of the word Comfort. The one we usually think about is the one that discusses physical comfort like safety, health, and security. The other definition deals with emotional comfort like “being there” or walking along side someone.

We like to focus on the first definition, but the original Greek word in this passage is translated as Solace or Consolation, which aligns with the second definition above.

Paul also discusses how God provides comfort in our afflictions. We tend to look at afflictions as a bad thing, or maybe related to punishment for something. However, Paul guides us that as we face afflictions (not if we face them) it draws us closer to God and His comfort. The message today provides an alternate view as we focus on the Kingdom and gain insight to how we approach those times we feel afflicted.

1 Corinthians 11:17-34

Over the last few weeks Paul has mentioned Judgement several time, but as we look at the original language, we find that the words we translate as judgement have different meanings. As he was writing to the church at Corinth, Paul was addressing their spiritual immaturity as they tried to set each other apart by creating factions. This attempt to set themselves apart only caused divisions within the church.

Today, we often try to set ourselves above others by our attempt to show spiritual maturity. Satan can use this to create divisions today, as he did in Corinth. We need to remember that it is Jesus who will decide our level of maturity, not ourselves.

1 Corinthians 3:10-15

Last week in Romans Paul mentioned that one day we will all stand before God’s judgement seat. This week in 1 Corinthians he talks more about the Judgement (or Bema) Seat where we will face Jesus and be acknowledged for how we live our lives. Paul tells us to place our foundation on Christ and provides examples of what we build on top. The materials mentioned can be divided as temporal or eternal.

In our minds some things we do can appear to be eternal focused such as prayer, serving, witnessing, etc. However, what is behind those actions (or motives or attitude) that really define if we are eternally focused. The real test of our work will show when we face the refiner’s fire. Will what we have built up still be standing, or will it crumble due to our attitude or motives.  

Romans 14:1-12

As we wrap up Paul’s letter to the Romans, he discusses the topic of the weak in faith. Danny discusses who Paul is referring to in this passage. Our initial thought is to pass judgement on others and how our faith is much superior, or how they are struggling because they do not agree with us. In reality, Paul is pointing out to us how our actions show the weakness in our own lives.

It is easy to pass judgement or to despise others for their differences when our focus should be on honoring God in our own way. When we stand before the judgement seat of God will our quick to judge attitude show our weakness in faith, or will we be able to show we understand and follow what the Lord has shown us?

Romans 12

In our previous reading Paul provided teaching about doctrine on how we are justified and face no condemnation through Jesus Christ. This week in Chapter 12 he provides instruction on how to put it into practice, by being a living sacrifice.

He instructs us to offer up our bodies and not to be conformed to the world, but to be transformed. HE even goes on to provide a list of what we need to do to demonstrate our willingness to be a living sacrifice. How far are you willing to sacrifice to demonstrate your commitment to following Jesus?