Epistles – 1 Corinthians 9-10

Today we continue to read the letter of Paul to the Corinthians.

Bible Passage:  1 Corinthians 9-10

In chapter 9, Paul asserts his apostleship to those who questioned his authority. Paul really had a hard time dealing with those who opposed him and his ministry. This reminded me of what we had read earlier in this letter, in chapter 4: 12 – 13, “And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; being defamed, we entreat. We have been made as the filth of the world, the off scouring of all things until now.”

We must give due respects to God’s anointed servants, opposing God’s elected workers and his works are serious things, for opposing them and their works are as good as opposing God. That is why in chapter 10; Paul admonishes and warns the Corinthian believers about the seriousness of opposing God’s guidance by quoting examples from the history of Israel during the Exodus and the 40 year wondering in the wilderness.

1Co 9:16 – 17

For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!

For if I do this willingly, I have a reward; but if against my will, I have been entrusted with a stewardship.

What is our attitude in doing the works of God? Is it out of mere duty? Is it out of pride to show our talents? Another question that we must ask ourselves in reflection when we take up divine works is, ‘what is our hope and goal in our works for God?’ Is it just to fulfill our role as Christians? Or is it to boast to others that we have achieved much in the name of God? These are questions that will keep us in check, lest we work for God in vain. Even Paul, an apostle who was greatly used by God, was very careful of his attitude and aim in his divine works, what more we who are living in this generation where complacency is our greatest tendency?

1Co 9:27

But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Paul dedicated his whole life to the works of God, and from his letters, we can see that his dedication was true and full of love towards God and man. Therefore it was not boastful at all for him to say, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” So it is to our benefit that we can imitate Paul and his dedication to God. In this verse (9: 27), it is another encouragement and warning by Paul that come with actions, for Paul constantly disciplined himself and bringing his body into subjection. Encouragement in the sense that we have to work hard for God and that God is willing to reward us with a just reward in the end. Warning in the sense to be very mindful of our actions and speech, be true to God and ourselves, to put it simply: “do what you preach.”

1Co 10:11

Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.

Truly there is nothing new under heaven, what happened in the past, or in ancient times, may happen today. Looking into history is not just to sigh at the wrongs committed, but to study and look more into how and what were done to salvage the situation or matters, and that is what we have to learn from the past. In today’s context regarding the spirituality of the church and her progress, we may admire the zeal and vigor of our pioneer believers and workers, but we must not just stop at admiring, what we really need to do is to emulate their faith, zeal and courage in the Lord. Of course there are also mistakes made by our pioneers, so likewise, we have to constantly examine and avoid those mistakes so the church today can advance forward and progress in the grace of God.

1Co 10:14 – 16

Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.

I speak as to wise men; judge for yourselves what I say.

The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
I believe all of us know that this term “idolatry” does not restrict to only physically worshipping idols or other so called gods, for an idol is something that one admires, adores, follows, and something that is placed at the center of one’s life. So this idol can come in the form of celebrities, heroes, money, fame, luxurious material things, glut and even sexual lust. Paul’s advice is to “FLEE” from all these, for we are partakers of the Blood and Body of Christ, a sanctified people in His Kingdom. This noble status we have from God is very precious and thus not wise at all to trade it with an idol of the world, which in the end, comes the destruction of the souls.

1Co 10:31 – 33

Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God,

just as I also please all men in all things, not seeking my own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

I feel that these verses can sum up how a Christian’s life should be, and that is to glorify God in all things, and to bring benefit (profit) to all man.