Tag: Paul

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

Unity Through Instruction (4:14-21)

Neal Pollard

Unity is not instinctive, or else we would not have so much instruction about it in the Bible. Paul clarifies why he is and is not writing this letter to them. He says it is not to shame them, but rather to admonish them (14). Admonish means to provide instruction in order to correct a behavior or belief (to provide instruction as to correct behavior and belief (Louw-Nida 414). It also carries with it the idea of counseling against improper actions. That sounds pretty negative unless you see how Paul does it. He writes like a father (15) to his beloved children (14). I don’t know about you, but I can endure quite a bit of correction from someone who I am convinced is doing so out of genuine love and interest in my soul. 

Paul was in a unique position among other voices of influence, in that he had actually been the one to teach many of them the gospel and help bring about their salvation (15). A “tudor” in New Testament times was more a person who led a student to and from school, who also supervised the student’s conduct (BDAG 748). Paul contrasts himself with that, and you can see a huge difference between someone hired to look over your shoulder as opposed to a loving parent who had a vested interest in your success.

Paul’s interest in their spiritual success is further proven by the measures he takes to see to it these Christians were reminded of what he taught them. First, Paul sends one whom he has taught and trained (Acts 16:1ff) and who actually worked with Paul among them at the beginning of the church’s existence (Acts 18:5ff). Timothy was going to do follow up study with them to help remind them of the apostle’s inspired instruction (17). For Christians to have their best shot at success, they will need to hear the same subjects from “the whole purpose of God” (Acts 20:27) on many occasions. 

Peter will write to another audience and say, “Therefore, I will always be ready to remind you of these things, even though you already know them, and have been established in the truth which is present with you” (2 Pet. 1:12). He goes on to say “I am writing to you” for the purpose of “stirring up your sincere mind by way of reminder” (2 Pet. 3:1). Why preach and teach about worship, gender roles, sexual morality, baptism, marriage, self-control, attitude, evangelism, and the like year after year? Simply because we forget, new Christians are added to the kingdom, young people come of age and need to learn what we already know, and external pressures and rival teaching can tempt us to abandon the truth. Paul, knowing this, was ready to personally and through other teachers make this effort to help Corinth, like Colosse, “continue in the faith firmly established and steadfast, and not move away from the hope of the gospel” (Col. 1:23). 

Biblical instruction is also key to provide attitude adjustment. Arrogance had shown its ugly head at Corinth (6,18-19). Do you know who Paul says has to really work at fighting arrogance? Those who have knowledge, especially knowledge without love (8:1; 13:2). Paul understood the true nature of God’s kingdom (20), and this motivated him to do whatever was necessary to further their knowledge but also their application of their knowledge (21). Look ahead in chapter five at what Paul is about to write the Corinthians. They are arrogantly embracing someone who was living in egregious sin (5:1-2). They knew better, but they were not doing better!

Instruction is about way more than Bible stories, facts, and memory verses. It is about letting the word live in your heart, keeping it in your heart, and living it in your life. How does God get that done? Through continued teaching, over and over again. What does God accomplish through it? Among the many personal benefits it yields an individual, it also helps produce and preserve unity in truth! May we never buy into the idea that growth requires abandoning God’s pattern and plan in order to appease people’s fleshly desires. 

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

Achieving Unity Through Humility (3:18-4:13)

Neal Pollard

The late George Bailey was known for saying, “A man wrapped up in himself makes a pretty small package.” Truly, there is a little “i” in Christ! Paul exemplifies the way a servant of Christ and steward of the gospel (4:1) behaves. How can we humbly serve Christ and, through such, contribute to unity in His body?

Do Not Deceive Yourself (3:18-23)

Paul draws on his contrast between wisdom and foolishness back at the beginning of the letter. The wisdom of this world is foolishness before God (3:19). Why does Paul say that here? In part, it is to drive home the point that they should not boast in men (like himself, Apollos, and Peter). But it is also to remind them that their glory and worth are tied to their being in Christ and belonging to Him. We wrestle so much with pride in our earthly accomplishments and attributes, but none of those things, of themselves, get us into heaven or bring about unity. Paul drives the point home by quoting from Job and Psalms. Worldly wisdom is a dead-end street. 

Be A Faithful Steward Of The Mysteries Of God (4:1-2)

Instead of being spiritual heroes to be idolized, Paul says that he and other church leaders were servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God (1). The mysteries of God are the testimony of God (2:1), God’s once-hidden mystery (2:7) now revealed in the preaching of the gospel (see Rom. 16:25; Eph. 3:1ff). Paul wanted to be seen as a trustworthy steward (manager) of that unparalleled message (cf. 3:11-15). Here’s the point. Paul knew he had only so much time, energy, and other resources to spend on accomplishing his purpose, and he wanted to be the most effective worker for Jesus that he could be. If that’s how we see ourselves, our purpose and work, it will keep us from focusing on who we are and what we have done. 

Remember Who Is Examining Your Work (4:3-5)

The previous point is made more powerful by the fact that not only should we not think more highly of ourselves than we ought, but we need to remember God is examining us. Ignore the idle critic or the armchair quarterback. Don’t spend a lot of time polishing your trophies and reading your “press clippings.” “Wait until the Lord comes” (4:5) and let Him acknowledge you and reward you. He will reveal all the secrets and He will disclose men’s motives. In other words, do the right things for the right reason and you will be richly rewarded by Christ in the end. God will praise you at The Judgment. 

Follow Good Examples Of Humility (4:6-13)

Paul and Apollos did not view each other as rivals, measuring who was more successful, more loved, or more influential among the Corinthians. He urges them to look at their example, and let God’s Word be the measuring stick of success and failure. The end result would be preventing arrogance and rivalry. These servants of Christ had been doing their service to Him at great personal cost–they were a spectacle to the world (4:9), fools  for Christ’s sake (4:10), weak (4:10), without honor (4:10), physically deprived (4:11), reviled, persecuted, and slandered (4:12-13), and, in summary, “we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now” (4:13b). Doesn’t sound like a condition to brag about, does it? Paul is not trying to portray himself as some spiritual superhero. Neither is he whining or complaining. He is trying to get the Corinthians to understand what matters. It’s not about jockeying for the top spot in the kingdom. It’s about being a faithful steward of the gospel and servant of the Christ. Focus so hard on that goal that you can ignore the praise and the persecution, and let Jesus exalt you at the end. A mindset like that kills division and disunity. 

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

Unity Analogies (3:1-17)

Neal Pollard

Having been given the mind of Christ through the Spirit-inspired word, we have the instruction book for unity. But, as we all know, taking the information and making proper application is the bigger challenge. It’s more than knowing better; It’s doing better. Paul urges individual spiritual growth so that the message of the cross could take root in their lives and produce good fruit. To emphasize this, Paul gives a series of analogies. But the purpose of each of them is the same, to exhort us to spiritual maturity. The result will be unity in Christ. 

SPIRITUAL FOOD AND DRINK (1-2)

Paul said that he wished to go deeper in his message, but they were still fleshly. That was not an idle accusation. Paul based this on their actions, the jealousy and strife (3). It made them men of flesh rather than spiritual men (1). We may claim to be spiritually mature, but such rings hollow if we exhibit behavior that shows our flesh rather than the Spirit ruling our lives. 

SPIRITUAL PLANTING AND WATERING (3-9)

Paul strikes at the sectarian spirit (4) he first mentions in chapter one. To help Corinth see the silliness of their divisiveness, he shows them who he and Apollos are. They are tools in the Master’s hand, each playing a role in their salvation and development. Paul planted (6; Acts 18:1ff) and Apollos watered (6; Acts 19:1). Which is more important? Exactly! What is most vital is God who causes the growth (6). Each of them is rewarded for doing their part, but God is the true force behind the results. Isn’t that a helpful reminder as we think about the work of the church today? Which of us is most important, who is doing the most or biggest work, who is more indispensable, or any similar question misses the point–“God causes the growth” (7). We each are rewarded based on what we do, but we do it as God’s fellow workers in God’s field (9). 

SPIRITUAL BUILDING AND WORKING (10-17)

In the middle of verse 9, Paul switches analogies from farming to construction. He again seems to allude to the beginning of the church in Corinth (10). Now, others were having to take up the work he started and each, like he had done, had to carefully build. But, the only lasting foundation is Christ (11). If they are God’s building, then they are the materials like Paul mentions in 12-15. In the process of time, temptation, and trials, they would either endure the fire of such challenges or they would be lost. Wise building helps, but ultimately each one won to Christ would either stand or fall based on their freewill. Paul is writing to these folks of such varied “materials,” but to encourage their endurance he tells them just what kind of building they are. They are a temple of God with the Spirit of God having residence among them. That makes division doubly deadly! It does individual harm but it also harms the entire church. And one who divides the body of Christ faces the prospect of being destroyed by God (17).

So how can that help us as we strive to live today and every day as a Christian? First, I need to analyze my own level of spiritual maturity. What rules my life–my flesh or God’s Spirit? Second, I need to analyze my involvement in spiritual work. Am I planting and watering or uprooting and trampling? Am I building up and working spiritually, or am I tearing down? Am I beautifying and honoring God’s temple? If each of us seriously considers these questions, we will find ourselves forces for unity and never striving dividers.

Jesus Did It

Gary Pollard

Colossians 2.11ff teaches us that Jewish customs from the old system are no longer valid. Our relationship with Jesus was initiated in a totally different way. No flint knives were necessary — he made us his special people by freeing us from the power of our sinful selves. Rather than going through a painful procedure, we go through the painless act of immersion. Immersion buries us with Jesus and allows us to access the same resurrection he did. Our faith in God’s power makes that possible. 

Notice the emphasis in Col 2.11-15 on the passive nature of our forgiveness! Judaism was all about doing stuff for the purpose of being forgiven of bad actions. The whole purpose of the old law was to show us that we’re incapable of working off our existential debt. We are completely powerless by ourselves. 

Verse 11 — not done by human hands, you were made free, this is circumcision Christ does

Verse 12 — you were baptized, you were buried with Christ, you were raised up, God raised Christ

Verse 13 — you were spiritually dead, you were not free from the power of your sinful self, God gave you new life together with Christ, he forgave all of our sins

Verse 14 — we broke God’s laws, we owed a debt, God forgave that debt, God nailed that debt to the cross

Verse 15 — God defeated the ancient ruling powers of earth through the cross, they are now defeated and powerless prisoners 

God was and is responsible for our status. We can’t dig ourselves out of any sin-debt, but he can and does forgive. God’s grace through Jesus’s sacrifice is how we’re immortal! 

The Art Of Contentment

Neal Pollard

Paul mastered the art of contentment despite extreme adversity. Behind prison bars he wrote, “I have learned to be content…” (Phil. 4:11). It didn’t come naturally to him. He learned it in the proverbial “school of hard knocks.” Contentment suggests the idea of supporting oneself without aid from others. Vincent adds, “By the power of his own will, to resist the shock of circumstance. Paul is self-sufficient through the power of the self; not he, but Christ in him” (459-460).

Everybody has met malcontents. Such are rarely happy, satisfied, or appeased. They are always holding the short end of the stick. They are forever the victim. From their point of view, nothing seems satisfactory. Aren’t they such fun?

The church where they are attending is always deficient in some way. The leadership is not enough of this and too much of that. The same applies to the Bible school, worship services, preacher, song leader, missionaries, facilities, deacons, or programs of work. Others find them a mine field, and interacting with them is comparable to walking on egg shells.

Malcontents have failed to grow in the important spiritual area Paul references in Philippians. The sniping and yelping of the discontented interferes with the good it can do. It is destructive, divisive, discouraging, and devilish. John Bunyan concluded, “If we have not quiet in our minds, outward comfort will do no more for us than a golden slipper on a gouty foot.” Or, as another put it, “The crown of life looks funny on a sore head.”

In an English cemetery stand two sad epitaphs on slabs of granite. The wife’s reads, “She died for want of things.” Her husband’s says, “He died trying to give them to her.” No doubt the man never made her happy because he had not the power. Only she did. Sadly, she never exercised what Paul did in adverse circumstances.

Perhaps Paul wrote above the howl of a dying fellow-prisoner in the squalor of a dirty cell, looking up to see the scowl of a godless prison guard. Perhaps, with Christlike peace, he shook his head, smiled, and sealed up that inspired epistle to the church at Philippi. Perhaps, there persecuted but not forsaken (cf. 2 Cor. 4:9), he sang a hymn (cf. Acts 16:25). Whatever happened, one thing is certain. Paul found a way to be content. Let us learn that.

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

Background To Paul’s First Letter To Corinth (Acts 18)

Neal Pollard

Paul leaves Athens for Corinth (Acts 18:1) near the end of his historic second missionary journey. He was taking seriously his Christ-given commission to bear His name “before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel” (Acts 9:15). On this journey, he had taken the gospel to a continent it had not been and now he was taking it to one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the first-century world. 

Corinth was a wealthy commercial city, and was at the time the capitol of Greece (Lange 334). “More than twenty times larger than Athens, Corinth officially counted only its free citizens—Greeks, Italians, Roman army veterans, business and commerce people, and Orientals including a large number of Jews. Corinth was also home to nearly a half million slaves, bringing its overall population to about 700,000” (Gangel, Vol. 5, 301).  It was renowned for its sexual immorality, an influence we will see in the Corinthian epistles. There was even a common term in usage for half a millennia, “to Corinthianize,” to describe sexual immorality among the Greek-speaking world (ibid.).

But we notice how Paul’s relationship with the city, so far as his work as a missionary, begin by reading Luke’s inspired account of his initial preaching in this city. This effort would be the foundation of the first epistle to the Corinthians. Notice what we discover in Acts 18:1-18. 

HIS COWORKERS (2-3,5)

When he first arrives, he finds a Jewish couple, Aquila and Priscilla, whose secular profession was the same as his–tent-makers (3). The couple had been expelled, along with all other Jews, from Rome by the emperor Claudius (2; it is almost universally believed to have occurred around 49-50 A.D. The Roman historian, Seutonius, says Claudius “expelled all the Jews because of a tumult instigated by ‘Chrestus,’ Polhill, 382). Until his fellow missionaries join him in Corinth, Paul works his trade with Aquila and Priscilla and reserves his preaching to apparently his day off (4). Eventually, Silas and Timothy arrive from Macedonia and “Paul began devoting himself completely to the word” (5). He was still working, but the nature and type of work changed. He would go on to “teach the word of God among them” for 18 months (11). 

HIS CHALLENGES (4-6,9-10, 12-17)

Paul will later tell in graphic details all his challenges as a missionary and preacher (2 Cor. 11:23-33), and we get a glimpse of what would be relatively minor for this much-persecuted man. 

  • One challenge was trying to persuade Jews and Greeks (4)
  • Another challenge was the resistance and blasphemy of the Jews (5-6)
  • He was challenged by feelings of fear (9-10)
  • There was the challenge of the false accusations of the Jews before the Roman proconsul, Gallio (12-17).

He knew from experience what he would tell one of these coworkers, Timothy, that “all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Tim. 3:12; cf. Acts 14:22). 

HIS CONVERTS (7-8, 18). 

His teaching resulted in the establishment of the church at Corinth. This would include possibly Titius Justus (7), Crispus, the leader of the synagogue and all his household (8), many of the Corinthians (8b), Ironically, it also included Sosthenes (Crispus’ successor or coworker), who was beaten by the Jews here (17) but called “a brother” in 1 Corinthians 1:1. Truly, the Lord had “many people in this city” (10). 

So, when you read along with me in this first epistle, don’t forget this vital background and the events that led to the church’s establishment in Corinth. While Paul will have much to say by way of correction and admonition, they were among the most receptive to the gospel we read about in Paul’s mission work. The second letter reveals a people who, despite their problems, were willing to work on them and overcome them. Their struggles, which we get clear insight into in the first epistle, are those we can all relate to today. Don’t lose sight of an important principle throughout, that God’s Word is the remedy to any and all such struggles. 

Colossians Imperatives

Gary Pollard

We can learn a lot about an epistle just by looking at its imperatives. An imperative is a command. Paul’s letters become especially clear when listing out the commands in them! There’s more to understanding a letter than this, but it’s a great place to start. For example, here are the imperatives in Colossians: 

  1. Follow Christ Only (2.6)
  2. Do not Follow Man’s Traditions (2.8)
  3. Don’t Let Anyone Force You into Traditions (2.16)
  4. Live for What is Above (3.1)
  5. Think Only about What is Above (3.2)
  6. Kill Every Immoral Behavior You Have (3.5)
  7. Throw Away Bad Behaviors (3.8)
  8. Do not Lie to Each Other (3.9)
  9. Adopt Godly Traits (3.12)
  10. Always be Grateful (3.15)
  11. Let Jesus’s Teachings Live in You (3.16)
  12. Wives, Submit to Your Husbands (3.18)
  13. Husbands, Love Your Wives (3.19)
  14. Husbands, do not do Things that Make Your Wife Bitter (3.19)
  15. Children, Submit to Your Parents (3.20)
  16. Fathers, do not Harass Your Children to the Point of Exasperation (21)
  17. Servants, Submit to Your Masters in Everything (22)
  18. Servants, Act as Though You Work for God, not a Human Master (3.23)
  19. Servants, Remember that You are a Slave for Christ First (3.24)
  20. Masters, Remember that You Have a Master in the Sky (4.1)
  21. Never Stop Praying (4.2)
  22. Make Sure You Behave around People Who don’t Believe (4.5)
  23. Say Hi to Everyone in Laodicea for Us (4.15)
  24. Read This Letter to the Church in Laodicea (4.16)
  25. Tell Archippus, “Do the Work God Gave You” (4.17)
  26. Remember Me in Prison (4.18)

See? You can use the commands to make a simple outline of the letter and get a good idea of what’s going on! There’s a good chance I’ve missed a couple, so if y’all find an imperative that isn’t on this list, shoot it my way. 

Deuteronomy: The Second Giving Of The Law (XIII)

Of Prophets And Gods (13:1-18)

Neal Pollard

We are surrounded by a world whose view of the world is decidedly different than what the Bible teaches. We know that well, but still find ourselves swayed and influenced by their thinking. Whether it is because we want to fit in or because it seems to be “working” for them or maybe because it appeals to us to some degree, we can become susceptible to their habits, customs, beliefs, and views. 

God knows human nature and has seen it play out since the Garden of Eden. As Israel gears up for the conquest of Canaan, God wants them forewarned about this timeless trouble. So, Moses explains it in terms of the familiar and divinely-ordained (“a prophet or dreamer of dreams,” 1) and the mysterious and divinely-condemned (“other gods,” 2). He presents a few scenarios that his brethren needed to seriously take to heart.

First, scenarios where a false prophet correctly foretold events, then urged idolatry (1-5). This was uniquely challenging. Israel might be persuaded to follow a false prophet whom God allows to accurately predict some future event (1-2). God said He would allow this because “the Lord your God is testing you to find out if you love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul” (3). God’s will had already been revealed and they knew the truth (4). They were not to be susceptible to contrary messages, to violate the first two commandments. Instead, they were to see this as seduction and evil (5). The false prophet was to be put to death, to eliminate his sinful influence (5). In rejecting the false prophet, they would be following, fearing, obeying, listening to, serving and clinging to the Lord their God (4). False faiths could not trump the will of God. 

Second, scenarios where an idolater was a family member (6-11). This would be challenging for a different reason, not because they correctly foretold the future but because they were close relatives. Moses is unambiguous; we’re talking “your brother, your mother’s son, or your son or daughter, or the wife you cherish, or your friend who is as your own soul” (6). It just doesn’t get more intimate than that, whichever of the scenarios played out. These with whom they shared such a bond might “secretly entice” them to abandon God for a false god (6-7). How should they respond? Not only were they not to yield to them or listen to them, they were not to pity or spare or conceal them (8). More than that, they were to kill them (9)! Not just kill them, but be the first to cast a stone at them (10). In so doing, it would deter the nation from being seduced by gods, of seducing their family, or allowing a loved one to seduce them into idolatry (11). In Jesus’ earthly ministry, Israel should not have been surprised by a statement like this: “He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me; and he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me” (Mat. 10:37). Or, as Luke records it, “If anyone comes to Me, and does not hate his own father and mother and wife and children and brothers and sisters, yes, and even his own life, he cannot be My disciple” (14:26). Moses will commend the Levites for observing this principle, allowing them to be priests of God (Deut. 33:8-9; Ex. 32:27-29). It is what it takes for us to be His priests today. 

Third, scenarios where an idolater was a neighbor (12-18). The last scenario would not pull on their heartstrings as much as it would be social pressure, dealing with a fellow Israelite who was stirring up desires to serve other gods. God’s response to that, in preserving the spiritual purity of Israel, is radical! If after investigation a city is found to have apostatized, they were to destroy it and its livestock (15). Additionally, this would not net the punishers in any financial way. All “booty” was to be burned. God says, “Nothing from that which is put under the ban shall cling to your hand…” (17a). This was a gracious, merciful gesture on God’s part. He was acting in order to bless them and guide them in doing what was right (17-18).

Three areas where we are tempted to ignore God or replace Him as authority are religious influences, family influences, and community influences. That is not new to our day; it has long been that way. While our response is not to be physical or military, we still must act when these influences attempt to pull us away from God. Paul reflects back on this general time period, even quoting Exodus 25, when he writes, “Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, ‘I will dwell in them and walk among them; 

And I will be their God, and they shall be My people.  Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate,’ says the Lord. ‘And do not touch what is unclean; And I will welcome you. And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me, Says the Lord Almighty” (2 Cor. 6:14-18). This is still our responsibility! We must hear God’s voice above the din of competing messages, being faithful to Him no matter who is saying something different or how much we care about them. God’s message then and now is, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness” (Mat. 6:33a). 

Defining Love

Carl Pollard

“Love is patient, love is kind, love does not envy or boast.” Many of us know exactly where this verse is found. 1 Corinthians 13, which is quite possibly the most well-known chapter in the entire Bible. When many people hear “love is patient, love is kind,” they start hearing wedding bells and think of a white dress. This profound chapter is all about defining true love, and Paul isn’t talking about the feeling you have when you want to marry someone. There is so much depth to this chapter and that is what we are going to dig into in this article.

True love is increasingly harder to find and practiced by few. So many are chasing a feeling that comes and goes with each moment. The love that Paul is talking about is agape love. This chapter is all about explaining why TRUE, sacrificial love is the greatest. Before we get into this chapter we need to understand why Paul is writing about love. The main reason for this letter is because the church at Corinth was an absolute mess. 

This congregation was filled with all kinds of sinful behavior, drama, and misunderstandings. Their behavior was a negative influence on others, and it was unacceptable before God. Chapter 13 was written so that these Christian’s would correct their behavior by practicing true agape love. 

The Corinthians were obsessed with spiritual gifts, especially the gift of speaking in other languages. Paul spends chapter 12 dealing with spiritual gifts in the church. They have a purpose, and ultimately they are for unity and glorifying God. God gave these gifts to help strengthen the church in its beginning stages. They were abusing their gifts, they were bragging about their abilities and acting like children. “Oh you only have the gift of wisdom? I have the gift of prophecy!” Some were bragging, others were trying to use gifts they didn’t even have! Like fake prophesying just to seem cool. Chapter 12 ends with Paul saying, “you can strive towards greater gifts, but there is a more excellent way.” That better way is having the gift of love. 

This is something EVERYONE can have. The love that Paul is speaking about is not the love of romance and warm fuzzy feelings. Paul is using the Greek word “Agape” which means self-sacrificing love. Agape love is behind all actions that put others before self. This is the love with which God loved us when He sent His Son (John 3:16). A love that does what’s difficult, because it is a choice. We are called to imitate this love. 

As Paul begins to describe love in chapter 13, he tells us that love is essential. “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing” (1 Cor. 13:1-3). These gifts that the Corinthians were obsessed with were meaningless if they didn’t have love. If you are speaking without love, it’s empty noise! Have you ever pulled a trailer that was empty? As you’re going down the road every bump and pothole sends it banging up and down. It makes a whole bunch of noise because it’s empty. No matter what our words contain, if they are said without love it’s just a load of nothing. 

It was the same for any other gift they had! Whether it’s prophecy, wisdom, or even faith, if there is no love they are irrelevant. This is why love is essential! The Corinthians failed to see the true purpose of the gifts. They didn’t use them out of love. Paul quotes Jesus when he says “faith to move mountains” (cf. Matt. 17:20). You could have faith to do the impossible, but again if you have no love it won’t do you any good. A faith to move mountains is great, but if you don’t have love your faith won’t do you any good. Faith, wisdom, or any other gift isn’t a sign that you’re a Christian, it’s LOVE!

If we’re not willing to deny ourselves for the sake of others, our religion is worthless. You could give everything you own to the poor, you could even be martyred for Christ, but again if you do it without love you’ve sacrificed for no reason. Everything that Paul mentions in verses 1-3 are good things! Tongues were good for the church at the time. Prophecy, knowledge, faith, all wonderful things. Sacrifice is good, but love is SO valuable, SO important, that apart from it every other good thing is useless. 

As Christians, we need to remember that love is essential. No matter what good thing you may do, if you don’t have love you might as well not do it. Agape love is hard to find, so be the one to sacrifice for others. Make choices out of love, speak with love, and live imitating the agape love of God!

Bearing the Marks of Truth:

Living the Gospel in the Footsteps of Paul

Brent Pollard

Paul made a statement in Galatians 6.17 that is worth considering. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, he declared, “From now on let no one cause me trouble, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus” (ESV). This statement raises the question: was he speaking literally? Did his fearless preaching of Jesus Christ result in physical marks? Considering the hardships listed in 2 Corinthians 11—195 stripes from the Jews, beatings with rods, and being stoned in Lystra—it’s plausible that Paul bore physical scars from these experiences. It’s unlikely any of us bear such marks for Jesus.

However, Paul’s message delves deeper than the physical scars. His letter to the Galatians also defended against accusations of being a false apostle. Critics claimed he received his message from men, not from divine revelation. Paul countered this by pointing to his scars as evidence of his apostleship and dedication to God’s truth. Thus, his physical marks were not just scars but proof of his faithfulness and the truth he preached.

This proof leads to a reflective question: if someone examined your life closely, would they see the truth of God’s Word as clearly as they might see the physical scars on Paul? It’s a challenging thought. Paul encourages us to bear the marks of Jesus, the marks of truth, in our lives. Remember Jesus’ words in John 17:17, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth” (ESV). God’s word, the Bible, calls us to bear its marks in our lives actively.

Bearing the marks of Jesus Christ means living in alignment with His teachings and principles, allowing His truth to permeate every aspect of our lives. This involves reflecting His love, grace, and forgiveness in our interactions and consistently seeking to grow in understanding and applying His Word. As we embody God’s truth, we become living testimonies of His transformative power and a beacon of hope to those around us.

In conclusion, the marks of Jesus Christ that Paul bore are a profound metaphor for Christian life. Whether physical scars from persecution or the spiritual imprints of living according to Christ’s teachings, these marks signify a life committed to the gospel. Paul’s dedication serves as a reminder of discipleship’s cost and divine truth’s strength. As followers of Christ today, we are challenged to bear our own marks through our actions and life choices, not necessarily through physical suffering but through a commitment to living out His teachings. Let us strive to make the gospel’s truth visible in our lives, serving as clear indicators of our faith and commitment to Jesus Christ, thereby honoring the legacy of apostles like Paul and contributing to the witness of God’s kingdom on earth. 

The Message Of The Cross

Carl Pollard

“So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross, til my trophies at last I lay down. I will cling to the old rugged cross, and exchange it some day for a crown.” 

The cross has long been an integral part of Christianity. It has been a symbol of faith, a marker of hope, and a reminder of God’s love. 2000 years ago Jesus died on a cross, and ever since, millions have associated Christianity with a cross. Before Christ was crucified on one, the cross was just a terrible way of putting someone to death. 

Crucifixion was used by the Persians, Greeks, and Macedonians, but the Roman’s really perfected it. 

Tens of thousands of people have been put to death on a cross throughout history.

It was considered at the time to be one of the most brutal, shameful and humiliating ways to die. The cross was seen as a source of death and pain, but Jesus turned it into a symbol of life and joy. God’s own Son forever changed the meaning of the cross when He was nailed to one and gave His life. Now when you google, “the cross” the first thing that pops up is a description of Christianity and our beliefs. 

Jesus changed the entire purpose of a cross, and He did it for us. Sadly, the cross doesn’t mean to some what it means to others. The cross is a reminder of the life we have to come, but for others it is a made up story or fairytale. It is truly incredible how two people can look at the cross and think two entirely different things. 

Interestingly enough, Paul actually wrote about this very problem in 1 Corinthians 1. 

Written around 55 AD, Paul, the author, wrote to the church at Corinth for several reasons. They needed to understand the difference between divine and human wisdom. They needed pointers on marriage and sexual conduct. They had an idol problem, weren’t sure how Sunday services should be conducted, had no idea about the resurrection, and so much more. All in all there’s a lot to learn from this letter, but the part we will look at is found in 1:18-25. 

Chapter 1-4 is all about human wisdom versus divine wisdom. If you’ve ever wondered why the world thinks we’re crazy, Paul answers that in this section. 

The message of the cross. The cross causes different reactions in each person. 

The cross divides, delivers, and decides. 

  • The Cross Divides The Saved and Lost (18) 
  • The Cross Delivers True Wisdom (19-21) 
  • The Cross Decides Your Future (22-25) 

”The teaching about the cross seems foolish to those who are lost. But to us who are being saved it is the power of God. As the Scriptures say, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise. I will confuse the understanding of the intelligent.” Isaiah 29:14 So what does this say about the philosopher, the law expert, or anyone in this world who is skilled in making clever arguments? God has made the wisdom of the world look foolish. This is what God in his wisdom decided: Since the world did not find him through its own wisdom, he used the message that sounds foolish to save those who believe it. The Jews ask for miraculous signs, and the Greeks want wisdom. But this is the message we tell everyone: Christ was killed on a cross. This message is a problem for Jews, and to other people it is nonsense. But Christ is God’s power and wisdom to the people God has chosen, both Jews and Greeks. Even the foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom. Even the weakness of God is stronger than human strength“ (1 Corinthians‬ ‭1‬:‭18‬-‭25,‬ ‭ERV)‬‬

What does the cross mean to you?

Be Better This Year

Carl Pollard

Each Year towns and cities all over the country participate in New Year’s Eve parties and parades. One in particular is called the Tournament of Roses parade. Several years ago one of the floats that had entered in sputtered and died right in the middle of the parade. Turns out it was out of gas. The whole parade was held up until someone ran to get a can of gas. The amusing thing was this float belonged to the “Standard Oil Company.”

Despite its vast resources the float still ran out of gas. Even though Christians have access to almighty God, if we don’t dedicate our lives to Him, we will run out of Power. 

It doesn’t matter who you know, it matters what you do. Someone once observed that a wasted life is really nothing more than a collection of wasted days. As God gives us life, each one of us starts the new year with the same number of opportunities—365—that we can choose to either use and invest in eternal things or allow to drift by without taking advantage of the gift we have been given. 

The difference between those who succeed and those who fail is not found primarily in talent but in diligence and effort. And so the question we should constantly be asking ourselves is, “what are we doing with this new year?” Biblical Christianity requires growth. If who you are now (January 11th) is the same as you were last January, something must change!

God expects us to grow, and if we aren’t growing we have become complacent. So what will we do with this new year? We have the resources, we have the opportunities, so what’s stopping us? 

I believe what happens to many of us is we don’t know where to start. We want to be better so we make a plan to read the Bible through in a year. Then we hit Leviticus and it goes out the window. We resolve to pray more and our lives get so busy we forget. We have got to better ourselves since we know it must be a priority, but what are some ways we can be better in 2024? 

I’m glad you asked! Here are 6 ways to be better in 2024 from Philippians 4:1-9. Chapter four is where Paul brings everything to a point. Every example, every command, every prayer and request has been said in anticipation of this chapter. Paul desires nothing more than unity for this church at Philippi. He used Timothy, Epaphroditus, Christ, and himself as examples of humility and service because that is what it takes to be united as a body. 

Paul gives us ways we can be better as individuals and as a church family: 

  1. Stand firm (1)
  2. Work Together (2-3)
  3. Be Joyful (4)
  4. Learn To Be Gentle (5)
  5. Pray More (6-7)
  6. Control Your Thoughts (8-9)

Make this new year a time of growth as a Christian. Let’s be better!

Bible Land Tours (Mediterranean)(VIII)

Neal Pollard

Today was an unexpected and pleasant surprise. We docked at the Souda Port in Crete and set out to see the Archaeological Museum of Chania.

It had an impressive array of artifacts going back to early Minoan civilization, millennia before Christ.

While there, we learned of Roman ruins not far from the museum, so we hired a minibus for our group of ten and headed to ancient Aptera. As one site describes it, “Aptera was inhabited since Minoan times (the first reference of the city Aptera as A-pa-ta-wa is traced in Linear B tablets coming from Knossos in the 14th- 13th century BC) but it only became a significant city around the 8th century BC. Its location above the bay of Souda was also strategically important: close to its two seaports Minoa (today’s Marathi) and Kasteli (near Kalyves) Aptera could control the circulation of ships and it became a very important trading post in Crete and one of the greatest cities on the island” (https://www.west-crete.com/aptera.htm).

Ultimately, it was taken over by the Romans and made over into a Roman city and fortress. During the time in which Paul and Titus lived, it would have been thriving and operating at its height. It would be destroyed by an earthquake in the fourth century. These ruins have been partially restored.

Crete appears in the New Testament starting in Acts 2:11. Paul and the other passengers on the ship bound for Rome stop there (Acts 27:8). Later, Paul urges Titus to appoint elders in every city in Crete, as well as urge the members to focus on “good deeds” among the ill-reputed Cretans (Titus 1:12). Crete may have been Caphtor of the Old Testament (Jer. 47:4; Amos 9:7). But the gospel reached these shores, perhaps as early as the 30s AD. It was exciting to walk where Paul and his trainee, Titus, once worked. It’s sad to know the church is not currently there, but the same gospel that reached them the first time is still as powerful today!

Bible Land Tour (Mediterranean)(II)

Neal Pollard

Today, we completed our land tour of Rome. I mentioned that there are 56 of us, ranging in age from teenagers to pushing 80. So, we move different speeds and are in different degrees of health. We are often having to go far and somewhat fast, requiring patience on the part of everyone. It has been pretty hot and sunny all weekend, too! Would you believe that everyone has kept such a great attitude and been so pleasant? Of course! We have been with God’s family, who you would expect to act more like Him than anyone else.

This morning, we all piled into our tour bus (packing about 90 bags into the bottom of it) and made our way to meet with the “Chiesa di Cristo” in Rome. This church of about 30, which has two elders, welcomed us with open arms. Some of their brethren led us in worship, some of our group led us in worship, and we sang, prayed, heard the word proclaimed, contributed, and observed the Lord’s Supper together. We sang in Italian, in English, and even in Xhosa (a South African language). We greeted and talked as best as we could with the language barrier and got to know some of each other’s stories. It was emotional.

I thought about what happened to Paul right before he was arrested and wound his way to Rome to appeal to Caesar. Nearing the end of his third missionary journey, he met in Miletus with the elders of the church at Ephesus (a city we’ll visit later this week)(Acts 20:17-38). Paul had worked with them for three years. At their parting, they wept, hugged, and said an emotional goodbye. The next place we know that he stopped was at Tyre (past Cyprus, which we plan to visit next week) in Acts 21:3-6. Paul and his fellow-missionaries were with these Christians just a few days. When they said goodbye, it was still an emotional, heartfelt goodbye.

That was the general feeling as we pulled away from brethren we only knew a couple of hours. Separated by language, culture, and background, we felt the bond of Christ strongly! It was hard to leave. It was wonderful to be there, to be with God’s family. How eternally wise our God was in building the church like He did. We will make some lifelong friendships as we tour so many places where Paul once walked and preached. We will have difficulty saying goodbye to some we’ve known and others we’ve met. But, that’s always the way it is when you’ve been with God’s family! They are the best!

Such A Sharp Disagreement!

Neal Pollard

How many times has it happened that two Christians had such different ideas and drew such different conclusions that it affected their ability to work together? Often, this rift permanently affects the relationship. They don’t speak to each other and even speak poorly of each other. Such a reaction actually hurts the influence and progress of the church, and it contradicts the biblical remedy (Rom. 12:17-18; Mat. 5:23-24). 

In Acts 15, as is often the case when these schisms occur, the parties involved are actually trying to do good for the Lord. After the Jerusalem meeting (15:1-35), Paul suggests to Barnabas that they “return and visit the brethren in every city in which we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are” (36). Barnabas loved the idea. These men had obviously worked well together (ch. 13-14). From the earliest days of his conversion, Paul had had an advocate and supporter in Barnabas (9:26-31). They had been in some difficult trenches on the first journey. In other words, they had forged a strong bond.

But, trouble arose! “Barnabas wanted to take John, called Mark, along with them also. But Paul kept insisting that they should not take him along who had deserted them in Pamphylia and had not gone with them to the work” (37-38). Barnabas was ever the encourager (4:36). John Mark was his cousin (Col. 4:10), which had to have complicated the situation for him. Paul was a tenacious go-getter, willing to risk his neck for the gospel. Did he see John Mark as soft, unreliable, or immature? 

There is no doubt that this created so much friction that the Holy Spirit through Luke calls it a “sharp disagreement” (39). This word, when used physically, described an attack of fever at its highest point–which often causes delirium! It was an irritation that reached exasperation. It was so bad that they separated from one another. This could have been the pathetic ending of so much global evangelism. They could have gotten out their competing scrolls and “written each other up” across the brotherhood, or posted on some ancient equivalent of social media about how much of a victim they were or how evil each other was. We have seen such small-mindedness in our own day. But, what did they do?

Barnabas went ahead and took Mark and they sailed to Cyprus (39). Paul took Silas with him, sent by the Antioch church and “strengthening the churches” (40-41). Luke traces the rest of Paul’s heroic, faithful mission work throughout the rest of the book of Acts. What about Barnabas? It appears that the Holy Spirit is pretty silent about his activity after their parting of the ways (1 Cor. 9:6; Gal. 2:1ff seem to record events during the first missionary journey or before). Yet, his legacy is implied through the mention of John Mark. When Paul was in prison, after his missionary journeys are done, he calls him “my fellow worker” (Phile. 24). He recommends Mark to the church at Colossae about the same time (4:10). Some of Paul’s last recorded words are, “Pick up Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for service” (2 Tim. 4:11). 

Does that sound like the Hatfields and McCoys? Does it sound like competitors and enemies? They could not resolve their difference and they went their separate ways, but they remained brethren. Apparently, they continued to work together even if in different ways. Perhaps they might say they regretted letting this disagreement get so sharp, but they did not let it distract them from the mission. May that spirit live in you and me today! 

Handed Over To Satan?

Gary Pollard

I Timothy one ends with 19, “Continue to trust God and do what you know is right. Some people haven’t done this and their faith is now in ruins. Hymenaeus and Alexander are men like that. I have given them to Satan so they will learn not to speak against God.” 

This is a difficult passage, but not the only time Paul has used the phrase “given them to Satan.” He also said this in I Corinthians 5.5, which gives us more insight into what this might mean. 

The member in I Corinthians 5 was handed over to Satan for physical punishment so that he could be saved at the end. This appears to be very similar to what Satan was allowed to do in the book of Job — though in these situations, it appears that he has the power to punish Christians physically when they have one foot in the world and one in Christianity, but with a lot more weight on the foot that’s in the world. 

This obviously doesn’t happen to every — or probably even most — Christians who fall away, but I Corinthians 5.5 gives us at least some hope for those who end up in Satan’s hands. This passage uses a phrase that likely means, “I have given Satan permission to kill this person.” But it doesn’t end there: “…so that their spirit will be rescued in the day of the Lord.” The original word used here (ινα or hina) means, “Resulting in,” or, “So that”. It’s used to describe the purpose or intended result of something. 

Perhaps this means that God’s grace will allow some Christians’ physical lives to be lost before they reach the point of no return, ultimately saving their soul. After all, God doesn’t want anyone to die spiritually, but for everyone to be converted (II Pt 3.9), something repeated by Paul in I Timothy 2.4. Even in judgment God shows mercy! 

Fact: You Can Face Your Fear

Dale Pollard

Timothy is working with an infant congregation in the 1st century. Persecution makes life fearful for the faithful but Timothy’s obstacles are both external and internal. On the outside he faces pagan people, jealous Jews, and the sword swinging soldiers of Rome. 

On the inside, the Christians who make up this young congregation are being led and taught by a young man— Timothy. He battles self-doubt and a lack of confidence in his own abilities. To top it off, his mentor is in prison. 

Paul perfectly pens the inspired words that would lift young Timothy’s spirit by reminding him that the human spirit was designed to handle and persevere under such daunting circumstances. Paul writes (from a cell), 

“God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind.” 

2 Timothy 1.7

The spirit (πνεῦμα) referred to here is not the Holy Spirit, but it’s the “disposition or influence which fills and governs the soul of any one” (Strongs, G4154). 

God did not give us the spirit of skittishness so that we’d cower under confrontation or burn out under prospects of suffering.

Holiness amidst hostility is an ability that comes standard on the base model human spirit. It’s not a possibility, it’s a guarantee. 

Power

We’re equipped with power (δύναμις) that is, “inherent power, power residing in a thing by virtue of its nature” (Strongs, G1410). 

Love 

That aggressive strength is powerfully combined with love (ἀγάπη). In this case the word refers to an affection or good will towards others (Strongs, G26). The God given spirit is not heartless. We have the power to show affection yet some chose to pretend as if their personalities are simply not capable of showing this attribute. 

Self-control 

A sound mind (σωφρονισμός) is simply the ability to control yourself (Strongs, G4995). 

We share a commonality with Paul’s protégé. Some have tried to cheapen and downgrade the human race, God’s focal point of creation, to an animalistic status. It’s taught by educated but ignorant scholars who try to deny an undeniable God. 

We’ve been fashioned in the image of an eternal Being and our spirits drive an immortal soul. We aren’t designed to live in a constant state of timidity we’re creations of courage. 

Courage is not the absence of a fearful feeling but it’s the ability to face that fear— and move forward.  

Encouragement For An Introverted Convict

Gary Pollard

A little less than 2,000 years ago, a man named Timothy moved to a beautiful coastal town in what is now Selçuk, Turkey. His mom and grandma were Jewish and his dad was Greek. When he was possibly about 45 years old, he moved to Ephesus to work with a newly formed group of Christians. Before this, he traveled with Paul all over the Roman empire telling people about Jesus and how he came back to life. 

By Jewish standards for a teacher, Timothy was a young man. He may have been naturally introverted and had difficulty with confrontation (I Cor 16.10, II Tim 1.7-8). Besides this, he had a criminal record in the Roman empire. He was arrested at least once for teaching about Jesus (Heb 13.23), possibly while he was working with the church in Ephesus. 

He had a very tough job— Ephesus was dealing with bad influences (like Judaism and Gnostic groups) and Timothy had to stop them. This was obviously very difficult for him. Paul wrote I Timothy as a pilot’s checklist of what God wanted for his family. It was also a gentle push for Timothy to keep those bad influences out of the church. This wasn’t enough of a push, though, because II Timothy is far more direct and has a distinct air of reprimand. 

Despite his weaknesses, Timothy was an awesome person and a very hard worker. Next week we’ll start our study of I Timothy 1. 

Comfortable Being Uncomfortable

Steve Candela

As many of you know I have a way of relating my lesson around the fire service and I’m going to do that again here tonight. But some of you may not understand the similarities the fire service has to the Church. Let me give you short list of comparisons. It is a brotherhood. We are a family. We watch out for each other. Call each other out when we stumble. Get each other back on the right path when we go astray. We push each other. And like every one of you, we support each other. We lift each other up when we’re struggling. And we always seek to find the best in one another.

At the firehouse we’ve adopted a saying from the US Navy seals that says “Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable”. If you can be comfortable being uncomfortable, you’ll be prepared to handle whatever situation comes along in your own life. “For we know that the Law is spiritual, but I am of flesh, sold into bondage to sin. For what I am doing, I do not understand; for I am not practicing what I would like to do, but I am doing the very thing I hate. But if I do the very thing I do not want to do, I agree with the Law, confessing that the Law is good. So now, no longer am I the one doing it, but sin which dwells in me. For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh; for the willing is present in me, but the doing of the good is not” (Rom. 7:14-18).

Who gets uncomfortable just reading that? Paul is talking about the flesh, his sinful nature, not his new nature in Christ. All the good in Paul’s life comes from Christ living in him, rather than originating in Paul. While the inability to do what is righteous and holy highlights humanity’s sinful nature, it also demonstrates the goodness of the law, in contrast to the power of sin. As we are in pursuit of Jesus, we are dumbfounded by our ability to do something, well, ignorant. At times we might ask ourselves, why did I do that? That’s not going to get me any closer to Christ. The struggle is real. But Paul also points out the Grace of God is sufficient in our failings and our weaknesses. See at the firehouse for me, we are placed in uncomfortable situations almost every day. It could be out on an accident scene where no one has any regard for a big red truck with lights on in the road. Could be in a fire trying to put it out or search for victims. Or it might just be at the station behind closed doors having those difficult discussions with the ones we work with and care about. However getting comfortable with being uncomfortable does not mean to be complacent or use our flesh as a reason to sin. It means we need to stay vigilant and prepared. We need to understand that when we fall short of the goal, or we just miss the mark all together, the grace from God is there to lift us back up.

I have one other saying I’d like to share from our firehouse with you that hits home every time I say it. “Would you want you rescuing you?” We have one of the most physically demanding jobs in the world. The decisions we make and the actions we take have very real consequences. On each and every call we are working to increase the chance of survival for our fellow man. This mission is driven by perfected skills and physical preparation. It is our responsibility to show up physically prepared and hold ourselves accountable to the oath we swore (Eph. 6:10-17).

As Christians the decisions we make and the actions we take have very real consequences. Are we working each and every day to save our soul? Our mission is clear. The word of God provides us everything we need to extinguish evil. It is our individual responsibility to remain prepared and hold ourselves accountable to the oath we swore.

Positive Encouragement

Gary Pollard

In Phil 1.6, Paul says “I am sure that the good work God began in you will continue until he completes it on the day when Jesus Christ comes again.” If this sounds familiar, it’s because he said something very similar in II Timothy 1.5 — “I remember your true faith. That kind of faith first belonged to your grandmother Lois and to your mother Eunice. I know you now have that same faith.” 

The confidence motif is repeated in both passages. It’s something Paul seems to say to give the person he’s correcting the benefit of the doubt. He also starts off his correction in both letters by saying something genuine and positive about their character. 

When we have to correct another member, we should never start with an accusatory tone. We should highlight the positive aspects of a person’s value and character and practically smother them with encouragement first. When Paul handles this uncomfortable situation he doesn’t say, “I’m sure you’re doing a great work, but…” He doesn’t tell Timothy, “I’m sure you still have faith, but…” The hug-followed-by-a-slap-to-the-face method does not and has not ever been effective. 

Instead, Paul encourages them by saying, “These are your positive attributes,” and then shifts his focus to positive examples of other people. It really is a masterful approach, but that makes perfect sense. God formatted both letters, so of course it was excellent. This also shows us that if we want to know how we’re supposed to do something difficult, we should look for a biblical example first. Chances are, God’s already given us a blueprint. 

We’re not told exactly what Euodia and Syntyche were fighting about, but there are some hints. The selflessness theme suggests a struggle with self-centered living. Love that hasn’t fully matured seems to evident from verse 9. Focusing on unimportant issues is also suggested in Paul’s prayer. Whatever it was, the root of their issue was a lack of selflessness. 

Down in verse 25, Paul talks about his struggle — he wants to leave this life and be with Jesus, but he knows the church at Philippi still needs him. He wanted to help them grow and find purpose through faith — evidently something that wasn’t already in place.