2 Corinthians: Christianity Is Personal

The Causes Of Comfort (1:1-11)

Neal Pollard

Paul decides to follow up on his first letter to the saints at Corinth (cf. 2 Cor. 7:8). He greets them with similar language in both epistles (“the church of God,” “saints,” “grace and peace”), but his purpose in this letter will be very different. This time around, Paul is defending his apostleship, his actions, and his work, while following up to matters and concerns he addressed in the first letter. But the beautiful beginning of this letter stands out as one of the most encouraging greetings in not only the Bible but all of human history. The unmistakeable theme is “comfort.” What are the sources of comfort available to the Christian today?

  • GOD THE FATHER (3-4)–“The Father of mercies and the God of all comfort”
  • THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN THROUGH AFFLICTION AND UNDERSTAND (4)–When we go through hard times, it makes us suited and equipped to help others who go through the same thing
  • CHRIST (5)–Who has endured suffering like Jesus (Heb. 12:1)? Whose comfort is more abundant than His? 
  • THOSE WHO HAVE SUCCESSFULLY MANAGED SUFFERING (6-10)–Paul saw the many things he went through as a servant of Christ (see 11:23ff) as accomplishing not only the preaching of the gospel but also the means of encouragement and even comfort for other Christians trying to successfully live the Christian life. Out of despair, affliction, threat of death, weakness, and peril came deliverance and hope. Paul and his co-workers, from these experiences, could help these brethren make it. 
  • PRAYER (11)–Our own prayers and those others pray for us

We are living in a world that not only gives no comfort, but also steals comfort. Everyone wants courage, cheer, encouragement, and cheering up, and it is available. But we are called to go to the right sources, the very ones Paul identifies at the start of this letter. May we obtain that comfort ourselves, then share it with others. 

1 Corinthians: That There May Be Divisions Among You (XXV)

Unity In Service (16:1-24)

Neal Pollard

Paul draws his first letter to a close by utilizing the formula he has leaned on throughout, changing subjects with “περί” (7:1,21; 8:1; 12:1). In English, it is often, as here, translated, “Now concerning….” Paul addresses the matter of financial giving (1-4), then moves into ways the church can unite to serve. We will help the church be one when we are engaged in trying to find ways to assist the cause of Christ. When we are idle or insistent on being served, division is usually left in our wake! 

Consider ways Paul says we can be united in service.

Monetarily (1-4). The instructions Paul gives Corinth were those he, as an apostle, was giving to other congregations (1). This shows that these are instructions for all God’s people to follow. His instructions are specific, telling when (first day of the week, 1), how (premeditatedly and as prospered, 2), and why (to systematically meet needs, 2-4). They had brethren beyond their “walls” who were in need, and through their finances they could fellowship them (3). It is beautiful to see the church join hands in common cause, using her resources to bless lives. 

Mission Work (5-9). But, there were needs beyond the financial. As always, Paul was focused on sharing the gospel. To that end, he anticipated stopping by Corinth on his way through Europe on his missionary journey. He hoped to be received and sent by Corinth, but also to spend time strengthening them (6-7). They needed Paul’s message, and they needed to help him spread it to others. One of the most beautiful ways to unite in service is through supporting the spread of the gospel, especially in far off places where access is more limited. 

Ministry (10-12, 15-19). Back in chapters 12-14, as we recall, Paul talked about the spiritual gifts with which every individual is endowed. While those gifts also involved the miraculous, there is a timeless principle here. Several individuals are noted for their individual ministry, which, when combined, meant a body functioning the way God wants it to (12:12,18,25, etc.).

Timothy is involved in preaching and missions along with Paul (10-11). As he will remind Timothy, he reminds Corinth that he should not be despised (11; 1 Tim. 4:12). Since this letter was written before the first epistle to Timothy, one could surmise that he would be despised for his youthfulness. Paul had not long before picked him up in Lystra (Acts 16:1ff). They were to value his efforts. For his part, Apollos was much engaged elsewhere, but would lend his service later (12).

The household of Stephanas, among the first converts in Achaia (cf. Acts 18:12; Achaia along with Macedonia would represent much of first-century Greece), were “devoted” to the ministry of the saints (15). Paul urges Corinth to unite in submission to all men like Stephanas “who helps in the work and labors” (16). Stephanas, with Fortunatus and Achaicus, were ideal examples of what Paul called for in chapters 12-14. They “supplied what was lacking on” Corinth’s part (17). They were of that rare, valuable breed who “refresh the spirits of others” (18). In a letter about unity, is there a more attractive illustration (cf. Psalm 133:1). 

Aquila and Priscilla exemplify the ministry of hospitality, housing the church in Ephesus (19; Acts 18:24-28). Apparently, they were former members of the church in Corinth (Acts 18:1ff), so their greeting would have been impactful. No wonder they greeted Corinth “heartily.”

Each of these individuals who are named exemplify the power and effectiveness of brethren who discover their gifts and put them to use. How Corinth would benefit from imitating these active, fruitful saints! Shouldn’t we look for Christians here that set the tone in serving the Lord? 

Maturing (13-14,22-24). Sprinkled in with his closing (20-21), Paul makes it relevant to Corinth. What could they do to forge unity as a church? Notice the ingredients: vigilance (13), conviction (13), maturity (13–“act like men”), strength (13), and love (14,22; cf. 13:1-13). How do I know if I am spiritually mature or immature, a source of unity or division? Deep down inside, I need to reflect and self-evaluate. What does God supply? Grace (23)!  Do you know what God expects in the face of what He supplies? Love (22)! Lacking that, we are accursed. 

One note on the Aramaic word in verse 22. Ben Witherington, III, writes, “The Aramaic clause maran atha (v. 22b) obviously comes to us from the Aramaic-speaking Christian community, probably in Jerusalem. If we read it as maran atha, which is possible, it would mean ‘our Lord has come.’ Read as marana tha, which seems more likely, it is a prayer: ‘Come, Lord.’ This latter interpretation is supported by what is probably a Greek translation of the clause in Rev. 22:20: ‘Come, Lord Jesus.’ Didache 10.6 also supports the view that this was an early eschatological prayer for the Lord to return” (Conflict And Community In Corinth, 323). 

Let us end our study by considering the most powerful incentive to be united as a church. Jesus is coming. When He does, He will judge the church and the world (1 Pet. 4:17). We want to meet Him as those who have devoted ourselves to serving Him in such a way that the church is strong, vibrant, active, growing, and, most of all, united on the truth of His Word! 

Montagues, Snakeheads, And Christians

Brent Pollard

Juliet’s poignant line, “A rose by any other name would smell as sweet,” from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, delves into the profound influence of names on identity and perception. This metaphor underscores that a name does not define the essence of a thing or person. In the play’s context, Juliet ponders over Romeo’s last name, Montague, associated with her family’s rival house. She asserts that his true self would remain unchanged even if Romeo had a different name. This argument posits that a name is merely a label without impacting a person’s or thing’s inherent qualities or worth.

Lawmakers in Maryland are proposing a solution to an environmental problem by changing the name of an invasive fish species known for damaging the local ecosystem. The snakehead fish, currently unpopular as a food source, could become more attractive to consumers if given a more appealing name. This example raises interesting questions about the power of names and labels in shaping our perceptions. The lawmakers suggest renaming the fish “Chesapeake Channa” to emphasize its connection to the Chesapeake waters where it currently resides. The aim is to rebrand the invasive species and replace its negative connotations with a more positive image. Given that snakeheads taste delicious, Maryland’s campaign may prove successful. This case illustrates how a simple name change can significantly alter our perception of an object, in this case, a fish.

Juliet’s perspective that a name is a label with no influence on the intrinsic qualities of an object is worth considering. It suggests that intrinsic attributes hold more significance than the names or labels we assign. This viewpoint allows for tactics like renaming a fish to enhance its appeal. However, what if a person or thing’s name reflects their identity and purpose? In such cases, it would be unwise to alter the name. This rose must remain a rose. This caution underscores the responsibility we bear when considering such changes.

Peter reminds us that a name holds significant meaning. In 1 Peter 4.16, he implies that if someone faces persecution, it should be solely because of their faith. For instance, if authorities punish a person for stealing, it does not count as persecution. Those to whom God has given the correction’s instrument should treat the offender lawfully, as mentioned in Romans 13. So Peter says, “But if anyone suffers as a Christian, he is not to be ashamed, but is to glorify God in this name” (1 Peter 4.16 NASB95). Though it appears only three times in the New Testament, the term “Christian” came to describe a community of believers who followed Jesus Christ’s teachings and distinguished themselves from Jews and pagans. It is the new name God promised through His prophet, Isaiah (Isaiah 62.2). 

As followers of Christ, it is crucial to identify ourselves as Christians. While being “spiritual” or “a believer” is not wrong, it does not define our identity as followers of Christ. To be faithful, we must fully embrace the responsibility that comes with the name “Christian.” This commitment involves living a life consistent with Jesus Christ’s teachings and values, actively following in His footsteps, being a part of a Christian community, and demonstrating love, compassion, and forgiveness in all aspects of our lives. Avoiding “Christian” may indicate a reluctance to accept the associated responsibility and accountability. By embracing our Christian identity, we respond to the call to serve as Jesus’ hands and feet.

In the end, while names and labels can sometimes be arbitrary or misleading, there are cases where a name carries deep significance and meaning, intricately tied to identity and purpose. Just as Juliet recognized that Romeo’s value transcended his surname, and Peter emphasized the importance of embracing the Christian name, we must carefully consider when a name represents something core that should not be rebranded or obscured. A name like “Christian” is not just a label but a calling to embody the teachings of Christ through words and actions. So, while changing names can sometimes be helpful, we must also respect when a name holds profound meaning that should be upheld rather than discarded for pragmatic purposes. Distinguishing between these situations requires wisdom and care.

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XXIV)

Unity And The Resurrection (Part 2)(15:29-58)

Neal Pollard

After having dealt with the many witnesses to the resurrected Christ, the erroneous denial of His resurrection, and the connection of the resurrection to His second coming, Paul turns his focus not just to the impact of His resurrection on how we live but also to our own resurrection. Notice at least three more observations in the second half of this chapter, designed to unite these Christians around the truth of the resurrection.

THE IMPLICATIONS OF THE RESURRECTION (29-34)

Paul launches abruptly from the second coming to an odd argument in support of the resurrection–this enigmatic practice of being baptized for the dead (29). It has been said that there are about 40 different explanations for “the baptism for the dead.” I believe Paul is saying that some were motivated to be baptized out of their desire to be reunited with their saved loved ones after this life. I studied with and saw a man baptized (by Riley Keown and some firefighters) who was strongly motivated by a desire to be reunited with his Christian mother. That would be for nothing if the dead are not raised. 

Furthermore, why would a Christian risk danger and death if there is no resurrection (30-31)? What keeps a Christian from “Epicureanism,” simply being devoted to indulging the senses through food and drink, if there is no resurrection (32)? Why strive to live morally and surround oneself with moral influences, if there is no resurrection (33-34)? At least four vital implications are covered by Paul, if the dead are not raised.

THE NATURE OF OUR RESURRECTION (35-49)

Now, Paul gets down to what our resurrection will be like in this section of his discussion. He addresses the question of how and what kind of body (35). Notice.

It will conform to God’s law of sowing and reaping (36-37, 42-44). Paul illustrates this with seed sowing in this life. You cannot reap what you do not sow. The body has to die before resurrection is possible. We will see this more in-depth, but what is raised is much better than what dies. 

It will be a bodily resurrection (39-41).  We cannot miss this fact. Paul refers to the “body” ten times from verses 35-49 ( in addition, “flesh and blood” is verse 50 is actually this same word, too). Our resurrection body will be of a different nature, but it will still be a body. It will be a body as God wished (38), a heavenly body (40), an imperishable body (42), a glorious body (43), and a spiritual body (44). Yes, that leaves some things unanswered, but whether or not our resurrection will be bodily is not unanswered. We will not be a disembodied spirit for eternity. We will have a new body, which Paul describes here. 

It will be spiritual and heavenly (44-49). This body will be engineered to inhabit and live for eternity. Our spirits will continue to live; there is continuity. But, we will inhabit a new, spiritual and heavenly, body! 

THE RESULTS OF THE RESURRECTION (50-58)

Paul lays down an order of operations or procedure here. We will be changed in an instant when the trumpet of God sounds (50-52). We will assume an imperishable, changed body (53-54). Death will die (54). It will be powerless over the saved and resurrected child of God (54-57). 

There is so much richness and depth to this discussion of the resurrection, but Paul gives us enough to favorably receive his final charge. He concludes, “Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord” (58). Persevere because living the Christian life is worth it! You are not wasting your time. Obey Him! Wait and see. Because Christ was raised, we will be raised! As the song suggests, “What a day, glorious day, that shall be!”

Why You Must Repent

Carl Pollard

There’s a story told of a man who came forward every Sunday to ask for prayers. 

He continued responding every week for several months. Every time he would confess this same sin he would say, “Lord, take the cobwebs out of my life.” 

Finally, one Sunday, the man responded again with the same sin, and asked for the cobwebs to be taken out of his life. To which the preacher responded, “just kill the spider already.” Often, we come to God asking for forgiveness from the same sin time and time again, and yet we continue to leave the source of temptation in our lives. 

Sin always requires forgiveness. Forgiveness requires repentance. Repentance requires change! Repentance is a topic we are all familiar with. The word repent/repentance is used over 170 times in the Bible It is stressed as a part of the process by which we are forgiven of our sin. Verses like Acts 2:38 come to mind when we hear this word. To repent means to change your mind which leads to a change in direction. It means to feel remorse for sin, and it includes a change in lifestyle. 

When faced with temptation, true repentance is choosing not to sin. When caught in sin, repentance is a godly remorse. It is sincerity in your desire to “go and sin no more.” We understand this. It’s important for the born again Christian, but also for those who are wanting to be immersed and added to the body of Christ. 

We know what it is, but we also need to realize what it isn’t. Repentance isn’t just feeling sad. Paul tells us that worldly remorse is just feeling sorry that you were caught. 2 Corinthians 7:10 says, “For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.” Godly grief that leads to repentance is remorse that you have sinned against the God of our salvation. 

Worldly repentance is hollow and empty. 

It isn’t feeling remorse just because you were caught doing what you shouldn’t. True repentance is so much more. True repentance does not regret parting with sin, false repentance does. True repentance hates sin, false repentance hates the consequences of sin. True repentance accepts godly counsel and accountability, false repentance avoids accountability. 

Our goal must be to practice true repentance, and we can’t fool ourselves. We are ALL in need of forgiveness, but we must be willing to confess our sins, to hate the sin, and change our lives to mirror Christ. 

Why Is repentance needed? Whether it is in relationships, in the church or in the world, God will not forgive us if we are unwilling to change sinful behavior.

Repentance isn’t just guilt, although guilt can sometimes motivate us to repent. 

In Luke 13:3,5, Jesus tells those who come to him to repent or they will perish. In this section several people come to Jesus to talk not about their own sins, but the sins of others. It’s a whole lot easier to see the faults in others rather than the blatantly obvious faults we have in our own lives. 

Here the people have done exactly what we continue to do today, talk about the sins of others rather than their own. But Jesus tells them they are horribly mistaken. There is power in repentance, and twice in this one conversation Jesus tells them to repent.

If I am honest, there have been far too many times I have failed to just “kill the spider.” I am ashamed of the sin I continued to feed all the while pointing out sin in everyone else’s lives. God will look at each and every one of us. He sees our sins and there is no one to blame but ourselves. Repent. Before your conscience is seared or the end comes. Repent.

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XXIII)

Unity And The Resurrection (Part 1)(15:1-28)

Neal Pollard

Paul once again signals a change in subject, moving on to another area of concern for the Corinthians. This one is a doctrinal question and he uses a slightly different phrase: “Now I make known to you” rather than “Now concerning.” The subject is the heart of the gospel, Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (1-4), which transpired “according to the Scriptures” (3-4). In some deep, challenging concepts, Paul explains both the resurrection of Christ and our eventual bodily resurrection. Some form of the word “raised” is found 22 times in this chapter. What does Paul discuss?

THE TESTIMONY CONCERNING THE RESURRECTION (1-11)

Starting with the resurrection of Christ, Paul lays out the witnesses to His resurrected body. He lists Cephas, the twelve, 500 brethren at once, James, all the apostles, then to Paul (5-8). Notice the solid nature of these witnesses. It was diverse, meaning He appeared to individuals, small groups, and very large groups. It was sequential, meaning several different occasions over time. It was representative rather than exhaustive, as the gospels reveal even more resurrection appearances (Luke 24; Matt. 28; Mark 16; John 20-21). It was verifiable, as many of these witnesses were still alive when Paul wrote this letter. Bonafide, corroborating witnesses confirmed the truth of the resurrection. Corinth (and we) should be united in the belief that Jesus is raised from the dead (11). One footnote within the list of witnesses is the insight of Paul’s ongoing struggle with his sinful past which he rejoices to know was overcome by the wonderful grace of God (8-10).

THE CONTROVERSY SURROUNDING THE RESURRECTION (12-19)

Some among the Corinthians taught that there is no resurrection (12). Certainly it is a teaching that requires faith, but denying the resurrection has some catastrophic consequences. These adversely affect both believers and unbelievers. Without the resurrection, unbelievers have no reasonable explanation about our origin, purpose, or destiny. But, if there is no resurrection, the believer is most devastated (19). What follows, if these naysayers are correct? If no resurrection, Christ is not raised (13). If Christ is not raised, our preaching is vain (14), our faith is vain (14), testifiers to His resurrection are false witnesses (15), our faith is worthless (17), we’re still in our sins (17), saints who have already died have perished (18), and we are of all men most to be pitied (19). Life and death are pretty miserable and pointless without the resurrection of Christ and our own bodily resurrection. Death wins. 

THE CEREMONY AT THE RESURRECTION (20-28)

Paul begins this paragraph with a note of triumph, asserting, “But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep” (20). Then, Paul takes us momentarily to the second coming, the general resurrection, and the end (23-24). What will happen then? We will all be made alive (22). Christ will hand over the kingdom to God the Father (24). He will have abolished all rule, authority, and power (24). His reign will end at the subjugation of all enemies, last of which is death (25-28). As the song says, “What a day, glorious day, that will be!” Nothing we have ever seen will prepare us for what will happen “at His coming.” And Paul is not done describing that incredible moment, which we will see in the second half of the chapter. 

Keep in mind that Paul is teaching and clarifying about the resurrection for a central purpose, to unite Christians around the heart of the gospel. It is the foundation of our hope. It helps us endure the most difficult trials of life. Peter says, “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead” (1 Pet. 1:3). Amen! 

We Have A Problem

Gary Pollard

Nearly every culture in history hoped for immortality or rebirth or “the transmigration of the soul.” This is evident in the myths and stories handed down for millennia. Ancient Egyptians believed in Duat, the terrifying world of departed souls. Here, among other tests, the departed soul must verify that they’ve not committed certain sins (theft, murder, deceit, adultery, blasphemy, and 39 others). If they passed all of these tests, they believed they’d be reborn among the stars of heaven. Many other ancient cultures had remarkably similar beliefs, but we won’t go into these for the sake of word count.

The point is that everyone desired new life. We have it already! Jesus came to this earth when every major culture had a well-established, fully-developed…problem. What do we do after we die? Just about everyone believed we’d go to “heaven” (among the stars), but their views of life-after-death varied somewhat. Jesus — God in human form — gave a solution to this very well-developed problem: Himself. 

We’re so far beyond this archaic conundrum. Colossians 3 tells us what God wants us to do now that we already have new life! 

  1. In 3.1-4, our new life means thinking about higher things. 
  2. In 3.5-9, our new life means getting rid of bad behaviors. 
  3. In 3.11-12, our new life means we have an identity that transcends cultural boundaries because our allegiance is to Jesus first. 
  4. In 3.12-17, our new life means we do everything we can to be at peace with each other and pursue a united spirit. 
  5. In 3.18-4.1, our new life means that we try to structure our homes and lifestyles in the most functional possible ways. 

Our new life is hidden in Jesus. We are already immoral, and death is just the pivotal moment when the “seed” of this body becomes the fully-developed “plant” of a new, immortal body (cf. I Cor 15). Jesus and his inspired writers beautifully and simply answered the millennia-old questions asked by every culture prior to his arrival. We will meet him in the air. He will rescue us when earth is destroyed. We will live with him forever in a perfect new world. No other religion so boldly answers these questions, another evidence of Christianity’s divine origin! 

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XXII)

Unity And Spiritual Gifts (Part 4)(14:20-40)

Neal Pollard

Paul concludes the lengthiest discussion of this letter with some final appeals to the Corinthians to use their gifts to be united rather than divided. The underlying principle in these final words is “order.” The disorderly way they were handling these gifts inevitably caused strife and difficulty for them. Paul suggests several principles that would help them conquer the chaos.

MATURITY (20)

Paul lays the groundwork for their success in properly exercising spiritual gifts by saying, “Brethren, do not be children in your thinking; yet in evil be infants, but in your thinking be mature” (20). Immaturity is the enemy of church growth and of the fulfillment of all of the Lord’s will.  Selfish thinking, whether self-promotion or self-interest, shifts the focus to the individual member and away from the body. Without mature thinking, there will not be mature acting. 

PRIORITY (21-25)

When one is focused on self-importance, he or she will not be able to properly see others. Of course, this happens at the expense of fellow-Christians, but it also adversely impacts non-Christians who may be at the assemblies. Paul reminds them that their gifts were exercised to persuade unbelievers (22). God wants the unbeliever to be convicted (24) and moved to obedience (25). He accomplishes this through His people’s stewardship of their gifts. Though we live after the age of miraculous spiritual gifts, we still should be mindful of how we exercise our gifts in the potential presence of non-Christians. Don’t let them be invisible to you, but be sensitive to them and act accordingly. Their souls are so important, we must use our gifts to bring them to Christ. We want them to declare “that God is certainly among you” (25). 

HUMILITY (26-39)

Paul reiterates something he has just said repeatedly (3-5, 12,17): “Let all things be done for edification” (26). This necessitates putting the needs of others above one’s own interests. Isn’t that hard to do? Paul says to submit your own opportunities and abilities to the needs of the body. You might notice that Paul says “keep silent” three times, to three groups–the tongue-speaker with no interpreter (28), a prophet while another prophet is giving revelation (30), and women (34). The reasons are different for each group, but the principle is the same. God has rules and desires order. That’s infinitely more important than what we might desire. God wants one’s gifts to be exercised for the learning and exhortation of all (31,35) and for peace to triumph over confusion (33). That requires me to get myself out of His way so that He can accomplish His will. 

PROPRIETY (40)

Paul sums up, saying, “But all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner.” That’s two elements. Am I doing what is right? Am I doing it in the right way? This is knowledge and application. Some don’t know any better. Others know better, but they don’t do better. Both deficiencies must be addressed. 

God has blessed each of us with unique gifts. They are not to show people how spiritual or special we are. They are to edify the church, evangelize the lost, and exalt God. If we keep this in mind, we will achieve the unity that God so jealously desires.

Encouragement From Eutychus

Dale Pollard

Here’s a quick recap of the bizarre events that unfold in Acts 20.

  • Paul preaches past midnight. 
  • A young man named Eutychus falls asleep.
  • As a result he plummets to his death. 
  • He is then miraculously brought back to life.

So what?

Each word that was written in scripture was penned under God’s guidance— for our guidance. This means that even those accounts that might initially strike us as pointless are, in truth, spiritually pointed. 

With this is in mind, Let’s briefly examine three life lessons from Eutychus that deliver relevant reminders for the 21st century Christian. 

  1. A lesson on Common sense: God is with His people, God protects His people, but we still read of a young man who sits where he shouldn’t have. As a result, he tumbles to his death. Unfortunate things can happen to godly people, especially in the absence of common sense. 
  2. A Lesson On Commitment: This account is not a call for preachers to shorten their sermons, or even a warning for members who might be tempted to take a nap in worship. While Eutychus may not be the first guy that comes to mind when we think of a Bible character who demonstrated commitment— he still made it a priority to be with his Christian family. He held on, even though it was clearly past his bedtime. How many of us have forsaken the assembly simply because we don’t feel like it? How many Christians find themselves struggling to remain focused in a one hour period of worship? There is something to be said for this man’s commitment to Christ— even as the hours ticked by and exhaustion began to take its toll on him. 
  3. A Lesson On Correction: Though I would not want to be immortalized in history as the guy who fell out of a window in church, this potential tragedy became a powerful testimony of God’s grace. God does not expect total perfection, rather our constant correction. When we take a tumble spiritually, what corrections can we implement to avoid the same  mistake in the future? 

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1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XXI)

Unity And Spiritual Gifts (Part 3)(14:1-19)

Neal Pollard

It is pretty easy to break down the focus of Paul’s message in these 19 verses. In a nutshell, Paul is telling Corinth that prophecy and tongues are for the edification of the church. What was to move this was “love” (1). Not surprisingly, given that tongue-speaking might seem more exotic or impressive, the Corinthians seemed to put higher regard on that gift than the others. Paul makes the point that prophecy is superior to tongue-speaking for multiple reasons. By itself, tongue-speaking does not communicate to men (1-2), but prophecy did (3). Tongue-speaking edified only the speaker, but prophecy edified the whole church (4). Tongue-speaking required an interpreter, but prophecy didn’t (5-14). His summary of this contrast is: “In the church I desire to speak five words with my mind so that I may instruct others also, rather than ten thousand words in a tongue” (19). 

We may wonder where the application is for us in our age of post-miraculous gifts. What can we take away from this section of Scripture since we have neither prophets nor tongue-speakers today. Notice how Paul’s words are relevant to us in the church today. 

BEWARE OF PRIDE

How were some regarding their gifts? In verse 20, he is going to suggest that they were being childish about these gifts. Chapter 12 shows that they were considering some gifts as “less honorable” and “more presentable” (23). Is it possible for us to do that today? Do we vaunt song leaders, preachers, teachers, and other more visible talents and have less regard for other ministries and works? We should not. Every single effort done for the glory of God and the advancement of His cause is equally vital and honorable.

SPIRITUAL GIFTS ARE DESIRABLE

Paul is not saying they shouldn’t desire these spiritual gifts. In fact, the opposite is true (1, 12). Their mishandling or improperly viewing them did not nullify their need to engage in them. The Lord doesn’t want us on the sideline, burying our talent. He takes a dim view of that approach, doesn’t He (cf. Mat. 25:14-30). Do what you do best, but don’t fall prey to comparing your gift to someone else’s. That’s a false standard of measurement. “God has placed the members, each one of them, in the body, just as He desired” (12:18).

IT’S ALL ABOUT EDIFICATION

Why exercise spiritual gifts in the first place? Paul tells us. It is for edification and exhortation and consolation (3). The aim is to edify the whole church (4). The aim is “that the church may receive edifying” (5). He implores, “Seek to abound for the edification of the church” (12). It is failure if what you do results in that “the other person is not edified” (17). We do not have to guess what is at the heart of Paul’s concern here. He reveals it repeatedly. 

Isn’t it easy for us to lose sight of the purpose of our mission and identity even as we do “church work”? Sometimes, works and ministries are begun to achieve edification but somewhere along the way we forget that. Isn’t it ironic that Martha was part of the commendable choice to have Jesus in her home, but she lost sight of what was most important very quickly. It wasn’t about the serving, but about listening to His word (Luke 10:38-42). 

Excellent Kathy Post…

52 Reasons to Love the Church

“Love One Another”

Neal Pollard

One of my favorite songs, “The Greatest Commands,” starts with this imperative. As that song urges us, “Love is of God” (1 John 3:10). Having a divine source and being a command, it ought to really grab our attention. John explains by reinforcing why we should love one another.

IT IS AS OLD AS TIME (1 John 3:11-13). When a Bible writer leaves his own culture and goes back to the beginning, you know the subject is important. Jesus does this with marriage (Mat. 19:3-9). Paul does this with women’s role (1 Tim. 2:8-15). John does this with love. He takes us back to the edge of Eden, using Cain and Abel as examples. He implies that Cain killed Abel because he did not love his brother (12). He also is teaching that love is a work, not simply a feeling (12). He then shows us that Cain’s way is the world’s way (13). John will stress that following the Lord’s way is how we overcome the world (4:4; 5:4), and the Lord’s way is to love one another. 

IT IS A MATTER OF LIFE AND DEATH (1 John 3:14-16). It is a characteristic of the spiritually resurrected; it is how “we know that we have passed out of death into life” (14). We persist in a dead state if we do not love our brother (14). Hatred is the spiritual equivalent of murder (15; Mat. 5:21-26). At the other end of the spectrum, we know love by imitating Jesus and being willing to lay down our lives for the brothers (16). Building that kind of spiritual bond within the body of Christ matters so much to God! He wants us eliminating negative feelings, dissension, grudge-bearing, and animosity. He wants us building a spiritual bond that looks like the heart of Jesus, a heart that caused Him to go to the cross! What a challenge!

IT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FAKE AND GENUINE (1 John 3:17-18). Saying “I love you” is incredibly easy. It is three one-syllable words. But our actions so often betray our claim. Do we literally put our money where our mouth is (17)? If we see our brother in need, whether financially, emotionally, socially, or spiritually, but show callous indifference, we need to go back to verse 10 and start reading again! The simple, powerful admonition is, “Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth” (18). In the context of works, James says, “If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace, be warmed and filled,’ without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead” (Jas. 2:14-16). Just like faith without works, words without loving action are dead and useless! It makes our “I love you’s” false and dishonest.

IT IS KEY TO OUR CONFIDENCE (1 John 3:19-24). John says, “By this…” (19). By what? By loving in deed and in truth. By loving in deed and in truth, “we shall know that we are of the truth and reassure our heart before him” (19). Look at all the conditional language in these verses. We should have confidence of our salvation if we love in deed and truth (19-21). We should have confidence that He will bless us and be with us if we keep this commandment to love one another (22-23). We should have confidence that we abide in God and He abides in us, if we keep His commandments (which includes, “love one another”)(24). John is not talking about cockiness or arrogance, but a blessed assurance that comes when we are striving to walk in the light (1:7). But, do not miss this point. Walking in the light necessitates brotherly love. You can’t have one without the other.

How should this change us? Won’t it kill grudges, feuds, avoidance, gossip, resentment, hostility, division, rivalry, suspicion, and the like? It will revolutionize the atmosphere of an entire congregation and the relationship between individual Christians in the congregation. It will draw us closer, into one another’s lives. Most of all, it causes us to imitate, please, and obey the God whose Son showed the greatest love of all (John 15:13)! 

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XX)

The Active Ingredient In Unity (13:1-13)

Neal Pollard

In biology and especially pharmacology, the term “active ingredient” is used to describe the substance of the product. Inactive ingredients may help to deliver the drug, pesticide, drink, household product, but it is the active ingredient that makes the product effective. According to Paul, if the product is unity then love is the active ingredient. It makes unity happen. He tells the Ephesians to be found “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (4:2-3). In the midst of discussing spiritual gifts, he speaks of what makes such work to produce unity. In a word, it’s “love.”

LOVE’S DEFICIENCY (1-3)?

Paul pulls from the list of spiritual gifts to give examples of what happens when you exercise those gifts without love. It is surprising to see that they do the “exerciser” no good, if they do what they do in a loveless fashion. The Corinthians reveled in their ability to speak in tongues, to prophesy, and to help others through their miraculous means (see 12:28-30), but even such impressive gifts were empty and meaningless without love. Today, my talents and abilities, my time and money, all my resources, given and used to do so much good, does me no good if I do it without love. 

LOVE’S DEFINITION (4-8a)?

Maybe the Corinthians claimed to be exercising these gifts in love, but Paul defines this “more excellent way” (12:31). Love is not what we say or claim; love is measured by what we do. Love is an action, with at least 15 characteristics. Are you impatient? Unkind? Jealous? Arrogant? Unbecoming? Self-seeking? Etc. If you are characterized in these ways, you do not have love. Love demonstrates itself through specific behaviors. 

LOVE’S DURABILITY (8-13)

Ironically, these gifts that made them arrogant or jealous were temporary. They would be done away with (8), They would cease (8). They were partial (9). They were equated with “childish things” (11). They were dim (12). By implication, they would not abide (13). These miraculous spiritual gifts served their purpose of bringing us perfect knowledge. We have that in the revelation of God’s Word. It causes faith in and obedience to Christ. But outlasting those temporary gifts were faith, hope, and love. We still have those today though the exercise of miraculous spiritual gifts are past-tense. Yet, of those three qualities, love is superior to them. When faith becomes sight and hope is realized, we will still have love. Paul urges them (and us) to aspire to the things that last, that last longer even than what we bring to the table in God’s kingdom with our minds, our hands, and our other resources. 

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Division Among You (XIX)

Unity And Spiritual Gifts (Part 2)(12:13-31)

Neal Pollard

Sometimes, when you are reading a paragraph or section of Scripture, the theme of it is so clear it virtually screams out to you. 18 times, Paul mentions the spiritual “body” and 12 times he uses the word “one.” Paul’s decided emphasis, in this discussion of spiritual gifts, is Christ’s “one body.” In a book for unity and against division, this makes sense. But nowhere in the letter does he drive this home more pointedly. Individual spiritual gifts are not about the individual; it is always about the one body! Notice:

  • This one body has many members (12)
  • We are each baptized into one body (13)
  • The one body is many members (14)
  • God has placed each one in the one body (15-19)
  • There are many members, but one body (20)

This is in addition to other ways Paul directs his readers back to the unity that should exist among all the members in this one body. If we miss everything else that Paul says here, we must not miss this! 

What does Paul tell us about the exercise of spiritual gifts in the body to help further his overall theme of unity?

UNITY IN THE SPIRITUAL BODY IS LIKE UNITY IN THE PHYSICAL BODY

Paul starts the paragraph with a simile likening a literal, physical body to the church. All the individual body parts come together to make the body work (12). Each individual body part has its unique function to serve, no one less vital than another (14-17). The body is set up by divine design (18). A body would look strange with only one body part (imagine an entire body that was just one big nose?!)(19). How strange if one body part told another body part it was unneeded or unnecessary (21)! Body parts that are less emphasized or visible are still essential (23-24). The body is very empathetic toward itself (watch how other body parts get involved when we hit our thumb with a hammer–eyes, hand, and even mouth get involved in consoling it!)(25-26). 

GOD HAS A CREATION PROCESS FOR PLACING MEMBERS IN THE BODY (13)

Just as God used the laws of creation at the beginning of time to establish or determine a physical body (Gen. 1:24-28), He has a law of “new creation.” One is formed as a body part in the body of Christ through baptism (13). This is just one of many compelling reasons why baptism is necessary. It puts one into Christ’s body (cf. Gal. 3:27; Rom. 6:3; 1 Cor. 10:2). It is a universal law, for anyone and everyone who will. 

PAUL’S APPLICATION OF THE ILLUSTRATION TO THE CHURCH (27-31)

How does Paul drive home the point for his discussion on spiritual gifts? “Now you are Christ’s body, and individually members of it” (27). What does that mean for whatever function or ability you possess? In the miraculous age, God had not only different offices but needed all of them to exist (note the seven categories in verse 28). No matter that we do not still have apostles or miraculous healers. What’s the point? Everyone is not the same and does not have the same gifts and responsibilities (29-30). Instead of envying what others can do or have been asked to do, we rejoice and suffer with each other as needed (26). 

Lest we think that we are missing out since we cannot miraculously speak a language we’ve never studied or prophesied or worked a miracle, Paul tells us that there is “a still more excellent way” (31). Spoiler alert: it is a way accessible to us today! What a joy when it is present and what a tragedy when it is not! More about that when we turn to the next chapter. 

Who Is Our Neighbor?

Caden Hammer

This past weekend, a group of us college students traveled to Sneedville, Tennessee, to do service work. Lauren Ritter and her home congregation have a long-standing relationship with the community of Sneedville and have done a lot of outreach over the years. At the young adult’s retreat, Lauren suggested a group of us could go do a project there. Sneedville is a poor community in Appalachia with low access to running water, employment, and education opportunities. Along with delivering groceries to local families, we took on a large project of building a wooden platform and placing a 500-gallon water tank on it to give a family access to water. I am very grateful to have been involved in the project, and have reflected on the experience a lot over the last several days. 

If you would go ahead and turn your Bibles to Mark chapter 12, verse 28. In the verses before this, Jesus has been questioned by the Pharisees and Sadducees who were trying to trip him up and get him to make a mistake in his answers. In verse 28 they ask him another question. Starting in verse 28 it says, “And one of the scribes came up and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, asked him, Which commandment is the most important of all? Jesus answered, The most important is, Hear O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” 

The first thing we have to figure out in these verses is, Who is our neighbor and how do we love them as ourselves? Well, Jesus gives us the answer in Luke 10. Jesus is talking to a lawyer who wants to know how to be saved. The lawyer already knows that he is supposed to love his neighbor as himself, but like a lot of us he isn’t sure who his neighbor is or how to love them that way. The lawyer asks in Luke 10 verse 29, “And who is my neighbor?” Jesus then responds by telling the parable of the good Samaritan, which most have us have heard plenty of times. While we have all heard this parable and know what it says, I’m not sure we really understand the significance of it. The person who helped the man was supposed to be an enemy of him. They were supposed to hate each other. They were completely different, yet the Samaritan was the one who chose to help. Jesus then asked the lawyer at the end of the parable, “Who was the neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” and the man understood that it was the Samaritan. The lawyer Jesus was talking to understood what exactly that parable meant and what he was supposed to do. But do we? Do we understand that our neighbor isn’t just our friends or people we go to church with, or people that look like us, or act like us, or people we think are cool? While those people are also our neighbors, the people Jesus focuses on are the people that are the most different from us. Just look at the people that Jesus talked to the most. The sinful woman in Luke chapter 7. He ate with tax collectors in Mark chapter 2. He touched the bleeding woman in Mark chapter 5. He drank water from the woman at the well in John chapter 4. These people were either completely different than him or hated by everyone else in the community. Yet these are the people that Jesus chose to be with. We tend to look down on people that are different than us, but Jesus says that loving them as ourselves is the second greatest command only behind loving God.  When we learn to love like Jesus it opens our eyes to see people for who and what they really are: a soul that is precious to God. The good Samaritan helped the man not knowing anything about him, his past, his work history, his family situation, or if he would be receptive to the Gospel.  If we learn to love people like this, it will change us. 

While this past weekend was focused on providing for physical needs, we should never forget the greatest need of all is spiritual. Loving people with no strings attached and forming relationships eventually allows people to be receptive to what good news you have to offer.  When they see you love them as you love yourself, they know you want what is best for them. Jesus told his disciples to go into all the world preaching the gospel. There are people all over the world and in our communities who have never had someone show love to them the way Jesus loves and to point them to Him. This weekend really opened my eyes to this.  While these people look and live much differently than I do, their needs are no different than mine, and they are no less loved by God.  Learning how to step outside our comfort zones and love and serve people will provide opportunities to share the gospel.  

The finished product: installed water tank for the family in need

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XVIII)

Unity And Spiritual Gifts (Part One)(12:1-12)

Neal Pollard

When we get to 1 Corinthians 12, we see one of Paul’s transitional cues. He uses his phrase, “Now concerning,” indicating a change of subject. He will address “spiritual gifts” from here until he changes subjects again, saying, “Now I make known…” (15:1) to begin his discussion of the resurrection. 

We are going to see that God used miraculous spiritual gifts in His work of confirming His Word (12:28-13:13; 14:22), but each Christian was given a spiritual gift (7). As we go through this section, I want us to consider this by way of application: we each have been blessed with abilities which, as these gifts were, are to be used “as He wills” (11). Notice a few ideas he emphasizes as he introduces this subject.

DO NOT BE UNAWARE (1-3)

Things are different in Christ and are not like they were before you became a Christian. Your function, role, and purpose have been exalted for divine use. We are seeking to be used by God to accomplish His will.

THESE GIFTS ARE VARIED (4-6)

He says there are varieties of gifts, ministries, and effects, but they come from one source. It is a divine source. He works all things in all persons (6). Be careful about disparaging your work or talent. God gave it. Don’t boast about it (a problem the Corinthians had), but don’t hide it under a basket either (Mat. 5:13-16). 

TO EACH IS GIVEN FOR THE COMMON GOOD (7-11)

He identifies the categories of miraculous spiritual gifts here: wisdom (8), the word of knowledge (8), faith (9), gifts of healing (9), miracles, prophecy, discernment, tongue-speaking, and interpretation (10). Each of these were exercised miraculously. But all of them had the same end in mind–“the common good” (7). God distributes these as He wills (11). Consider this even as we do not exercise these gifts miraculously today. God still endows each of us with unique abilities (some have great people skills, some excel in teaching, some are wonderful encouragers, some are skilled with their hands, etc.). Why do we have those gifts? For the common good! No ability is greater or better than another. To think that way is to miss Paul’s point here. 

What Are You Showing?

Brent Pollard

The geopolitical landscape under Hezekiah, King of Judah, saw an increase in the threat from Babylon while Assyria’s influence declined. Hezekiah’s political interests and personal ambitions were intertwined to solidify his kingdom amidst evolving circumstances. When he recovered from a severe illness, envoys from Babylon, a rising power seeking to weaken Assyria, visited him. Overwhelmed with relief and eager to impress his potential new allies, Hezekiah made a critical error.

The scripture recounts in 2 Kings 20.13, “Hezekiah listened to them, and showed them all his treasure house, the silver and the gold and the spices and the precious oil and the house of his armor and all that was found in his treasuries. There was nothing in his house nor in all his dominion that Hezekiah did not show them.” (NASB95) This act of pride had serious future consequences, as the prophet Isaiah sharply points out in Isaiah 39.4 by questioning Hezekiah, resulting in a prophecy of doom for his lineage and nation.

This passage emphasizes the importance of being careful with what we disclose. It encourages us to consider the consequences of our actions, which can affect not only our own but also the fate of the community.

The Dangers of Pride and Showing Off

Hezekiah intended to gain political favor by displaying his kingdom’s wealth, but he also revealed a more profound spiritual issue that the Scriptures emphasize: the danger of pride. The Parable of the Rich Fool in Luke 12.16–21, in which a man obsessed with wealth plans to build larger barns to store his crops only to die the same night, reinforces this New Testament message. Like the rich fool, Hezekiah’s pride in his treasures arose from prioritizing material security over spiritual faithfulness.

When displaying our possessions, achievements, or abilities, we must consider whether they serve a greater purpose or feed our ego. Self-reflection is critical to avoiding arrogance and conceit.

Wisdom in Confidentiality

Hezekiah’s strategic error stemmed not only from his pride but also from his failure to anticipate the consequences of his disclosures. Jesus advised such individuals not to “give what is holy to dogs, and do not throw your pearls before swine, or they will trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you to pieces.” (Matthew 7.6 NASB95) Protecting valuable things, whether spiritual beliefs or important assets, is essential.

The principle of caution prompts us to be careful when sharing information. Sometimes, it is preferable to keep things private to protect ourselves and our communities from potential harm. This wisdom, rooted in scripture, encourages us to consider the possible impact on the larger community before sharing information.

Consequences Extend Beyond the Individual

Isaiah’s prophecy reveals a fundamental biblical truth: our actions have a long-term impact on our descendants and community. The exile of Judah’s elite to Babylon, which Isaiah predicted, exemplifies how Hezekiah’s decisions had severe and long-term consequences. This interconnectedness of fate resonates with Paul’s assertion in 1 Corinthians 12.26, “And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.” (NASB95)

Acting community-mindedly requires us to consider how our decisions affect others.

Hezekiah’s encounter with the Babylonian envoys underscores the significance of humility, discretion, and foresight in our social dealings. As we navigate life’s complexities, it is critical that we embody these virtues and only show others what honors God and promotes communal well-being. It is imperative to heed Hezekiah’s missteps and aim to make choices that glorify God and enrich future generations. Integrating foresight and wisdom into our daily choices empowers us to enhance our lives and contribute to a brighter world.

1 Corinthians: That There Be No Divisions Among You (XVII)

Unity And “The Lord’s Supper” (11:17-34)

Neal Pollard

In this paragraph, we have the verses probably most frequently read before we take communion each Sunday. While it does provide a good reminder, how often do we read it in context? As we know from reading through the letter to this point, Paul is writing to help a church struggling with unity on so many fronts. Those who struggle to be of the same mind and same judgment can even divide over the thing that should be the strongest uniting force–remembering the sacrifice of our Savior. Why, it’s the very heart of our Christianity! The cross is why our past is forgiven, why our present has meaning, and our future has hope. The Corinthians had divisions over this (18)!

The Lord’s Supper had lost its meaning (20). While how it lost meaning to them might seem foreign to us, we can struggle with it, too. What are we doing during this commemoration, and what should we be doing? 

WHAT THE SUPPER IS NOT (17-22)

It is not a whitewash for fellowship problems (17-19). Jesus taught in His ministry that interpersonal problems need to be dealt with before we offer acceptable worship (Mat. 5:23-24). It is pretentious to piously participate in this sacred remembrance when we won’t speak to a brother or have a long-standing grudge we refuse to resolve with a sister. There are times when God tells His people, “I don’t want your worship” (Isa. 1:11-15; Jer. 6:20; Amos 5:21-22; Mal. 1:10). Why did God refuse what He commanded? Because worship is not a substitute for unrighteous living. 

It is not a mindless activity (20-22). Paul is about to remind them of what the Lord’s Supper is. They needed that because they totally lost focus on why they were doing it. Their problem was they turned this symbolic remembrance into dinner on the grounds, a potluck except without sharing with everyone. Oh how we need our mind engaged in what this memorial is all about! What do we do with this precious time? How do we treat it, as common or sacred? He’s not condemning eating in a church building (they may have been meeting in a home, like the church at Rome did–see 16:19), but misusing the Lord’s Supper in their assemblies. It was a heart problem.

WHAT THE SUPPER IS (23-29)

It is a God-given remembrance (23-25). Jesus instituted this memorial on the night of His betrayal and arrest, the day before His crucifixion (23; Mat. 26:26-28). How important is this to God? It was on His mind right before His death on a night, ironically, He would fervently pray for His believers to be united (John 17). He wanted us to keep coming together and remembering what He did for us and what that does for us.

It is a periodic proclamation (26). We understand this from the phrase, “For as often as.” Acts 20:7 shows us how often “often” is–“On the first day of the week” (cf. 1 Cor. 16:2). But, instead of being “a mindless activity,” it is a recurring opportunity to “proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” You are telling others of the basis of your hope and the source of your strength. You are saying, “This is so important to me that I could not miss it.” 

It is a time of self-examination (27-29).  Did the early church speak to each other during this time? Surprisingly, Scripture is silent about that. But one thing is for sure. They used this time to look within and examine themselves. So, my involvement in the Lord’s Supper is not just a time to look back at the cross, but to look inwardly at my own Christian life. Not only do I ask, “Am I thinking about the Lord right now?” I ask, “Am I living faithfully for the Lord each day?” Did you get the third dimension? “Am I judging the body rightly?” What does that mean? Certainly, it involves remembering the physical body of Jesus that suffered. But, Paul also ties the “one bread” to the idea that “we who are many are one body” (10:17). He is about to discuss the one body, the church, in light of spiritual gifts (12:12-27). Given the disunity of the Corinthian church, is Paul demanding that they see each other lovingly and charitably rather than contemptuously and resentfully? It would be hard to say dogmatically, but it should make us hesitate to come to this memorial with an improper view of any of our spiritual family!

WHAT THE SUPPER REVEALS (30-34)

We may conceal from the church our spiritual weakness, sickness, and slumber (30), but God knows and we, through honest self-examination, know. Yet, this is an eminently fixable problem! Judge yourself. Examine yourself. Discipline yourself. What a beautiful opportunity to humbly work on our hearts, look at our sins, and lean on His atoning sacrifice, and come away more determined to live more like Jesus. Consider the blessing of your spiritual family and determine to do more to help them live like Jesus. 

This Sunday, will you remember this during our time of communion? There may be crying babies, clanging, banging noises, a cell phone inadvertently ringing, someone with a nagging cough, even someone whispering nearby. Tune it out of your heart and ears. Look back to Calvary. Look into your life. Look around at the precious body of believers. Look ahead to His coming. Look up to the Lord, your source of strength. Look down on no one! This is the way to unite around the Lord’s Supper. 

The Giver Of Life

Carl Pollard

 There are some in the world who follow Christ for the wrong reasons. Perhaps they were told that everything in life would be perfect if they chose to follow Jesus. It is possible that they did it for their family and not out of their own conviction. Maybe they became a Christian to try and get some physical blessing out of it. 

To put our faith in action we are all motivated by something. If we aren’t careful, we can quickly lose motivation if it is based on the wrong ideas. For a few moments we are going to turn our attention to the cost of discipleship. As Christians, we are called to follow God, and not because our faith will come with certain perks. We follow Christ because He is the Son of the Living God. The truth of His resurrection compels us to put our faith in action. The many attributes of Christ compel us to trust in Him as Lord. He is worthy of our worship, our love, and our obedience. 

But even more, the beauty of the Gospel is that in trusting Jesus and acting out our faith, we find that He pours many blessings into our lives. This is not our motivation, but it is a side effect of faithfully following the Savior. I used to believe that it was wrong to think, “what’s in it for me.” 

We may even feel guilty for thinking this way. We do our best to put our faith in action and often we ask, “what’s the point?” 

This is NOT wrong. In fact, this is the definition of “counting the cost.” Luke 14:28, Jesus says, “For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?” 

In this section, Jesus is teaching us to realize just how much it will cost us to become His follower. Faith in action is no easy task. Obeying the Son of God isn’t a walk in the park. There were several occasions where the people believed that Jesus’ teachings were too hard to obey. But that sacrifice is part of following the Son of God. Deny self, take up cross, follow Him. 

Those are difficult decisions to make. 

Jesus, in Luke 14, shows us the importance of fully understanding what it will cost us to follow Him. In this mental exercise, you measure the cost against what you stand to gain in following Jesus (hint, you’ll gain far more than what it cost you). As we think about the idea of counting the cost, there’s one of many reasons why Jesus is worth the Cost: Jesus Gives Life. 

In John 6, Jesus presents some very difficult teachings to the crowds. He is teaching in the synagogue in the city of Capernaum to a large group of Jews. These hard teachings from Jesus actually caused many followers to leave Jesus! Verse 60 says, “When His followers heard this many of them said, ‘this teaching is hard, who can accept it?’” 

How often do we respond like this? 

There’s more discussion, and Jesus knew this would happen. Finally, in verse 66, it says that after He said these things His followers left him and followed Him no more. 

After these people leave Him, He turns to His disciples and notice what He says: “Do you want to go away as well?’” (67).

Peter answers, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life, and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” Peter’s response is profound. When faced with the question, “will you also leave?”, his response is “to whom shall we go?” This is a question we must all consider. Who would you be without Christ? Who could take the place of Savior in your life? Many have made the decision to let the world be their savior.

If Christ wasn’t in your life, who could you turn to? 

It is in the identity of Jesus that we find the main appeal of God’s Son. Jesus is God. Peter realized this powerful truth. Christ has the words of eternal life. This was all he needed to follow Jesus to the very end. 

If Jesus is God, His words are more than just words. His words are truth. His words open our eyes to the truth of eternity. Jesus is worth following; He is worthy of our faith, because He gives us eternal Life. 

Jesus gives us the option to follow or leave. But who would we turn to? He is the Son of God, His words give life. This powerful encouragement shows us that every word of Jesus pierces the depths of our souls and binds our lives in truth. This cannot be found anywhere else. Others can offer words of wisdom and words of truth, but Jesus alone gives the words that can be trusted for an eternity.

As we count the cost, we must keep in mind that Jesus gives everlasting life to those who put their faith in Him.