Letters to Timothy part 1

The letters to Timothy and Titus are different from Paul's other letters. These letters were written not to a church but to a person. They were personal. Timothy was Paul's young assistant who had accompanied him for years and acted as his liaison to a number of churches. Timothy whose name means “one who honors God” was Paul’s “beloved son in the faith.” Timothy’s conversion to Christianity was produced by Paul’s ministry during his first missionary endeavor (Acts 14:6-18) to Lystra, the home town of young Timothy. Though Lystra was a city full of false religions, Timothy’s mother Eunice and grandmother Lois had raised him to be a Hebrew as they were (2 Tim. 1:5, Acts 16:1). Timothy’s father -being a Greek- refused for Timothy to be circumcised, but no doubt Timothy’s mother and grandmother taught him the history of their faith (2 Tim. 3:15) and instilled a faithfulness to the Lord. Timothy had a good report of the Christians that were in that city, and Paul then took Timothy with him on his missionary journeys.  Timothy was Paul’s “true child in the faith.”  (1 Tim. 1:2)

Background of Ephesus

Ephesus was a proud, rich city with a busy port at the end of the caravan route of Asia. It was the fourth largest city in the Roman empire. This was a large city containing a theatre that could seat upwards of 25,000 people. The city of Ephesus was littered with temples, libraries, and public baths. Ephesus had a town square with a market place. Despite the growth of Christianity in the city of Ephesus, this city was still filled with pagan ideology. The worship of the goddess Diana/Artemis was prevalent in this city. The temple of Diana/Artemis was built in this city and was considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, it was four times larger than the Parthenon. The trade of Ephesus was very important in this hustle and bustle land. While Christianity was on the rise in Ephesus, the silversmiths and makers of silver shrines for Diana grew weary of losing their precious income (Acts 19:23-41). Before Ephesus became a hub for Christendom, it was once the epicenter for the cult worshippers of Diana. According to Greek mythology Diana was considered the fertile goddess. Ephesus was so inundated with false doctrine, that when they went to persecute Alexander who was a Jewish Christian, they chanted for two hours straight “Great is Diana of the Ephesians” (Acts 19:34).

When Paul visited Ephesus in Acts 20:17, he reminded the Ephesian elders of his preaching of repentance and faith towards Jesus Christ(Acts 20:19-21). It was this preaching that had converted many from worshipping false idols and turning to Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. The apostle then warned them of false teachers, who would come into the flock of God as grievous wolves (Acts 19:29). Such a warning was relevant to the church of God in Ephesus, considering that such false doctrine abounded in their city. Warning the church of false teachers was of upmost importance to Paul, for we see many times in Paul’s letter to Timothy to warn many of false doctrine, and to heed to the truth (1 Tim 1:3-4, 4:1-2, 16, 6:3-5, 20, 1 Tim 1:13-14, 2:15-18, 4:1-4).

Timothy traveled with Paul to Berea (Acts 17:14), Athens (Acts 17:15, Corinth (Acts 18:5 2 Cor. 1:19), to Jerusalem (Acts 20:4). Timothy was imprisoned with Paul in Rome (Phil. 2:19-23). Paul believed in Timothy’s ministry and ability that the apostle would send Timothy to be his representative to various churches (1 Cor. 4:17; 16:10; Phil. 2:19; 1 Thess. 3:2). And here in these letters we find that Paul had left Timothy in help guide and lead the church in Ephesus. Timothy was present with Paul when he penned the letters to the churches of the Thessalonians and the Corinthians (1 Thess. 1:1,2; 2 Thess. 1:1; Acts 19:22; 2 Cor. 1:1).  Paul left in the care of Timothy the church in Ephesus while he went on to Macedonia (1 Tim. 1:3). Paul had done some of his greatest work in Ephesus. Some four years after Paul had left Ephesus he wrote them the letter which we call the Epistle to the Ephesians around A.D. 62.

1 Timothy
The first letter Paul wrote Timothy may have been considered personal, but it included instructions to the church as a whole in Ephesus. Paul addressed Timothy, but also includes his apostolic credentials. This gives us the clue that Paul was addressing Timothy and to the churches in Ephesus.

The theme throughout the epistle is the command for Timothy to “teach no other doctrine.” There arose some in Ephesus who were desiring to be “teachers of the law” but they did not understand what they were teaching. Paul had to correct the idea of teaching the law in retrospect to the Gospel of Jesus (1 Tim 1:3-11).  With Ephesus indoctrinated with pagan religion and an ungodly culture, it was inevitable for there to arise teachers proclaiming a false doctrine. With false teachers and false doctrine becoming an issue within the churches in Ephesus, Paul had to set in order the organization of church leadership.  Paul gives the qualifications for elders and deacons in overseeing the life of the church.  (1 Tim. 3:1-13)  Apparently the dissension of false teachers was arising from those less than qualified within in the current church. Paul states that a elder must not be a “new convert, lest he became conceited and fall into the condemnation of the devil.” (1 Tim 3:6)

Paul also reminded Timothy of the “faith” throughout these letters. Timothy was to hold to the faith (1 Tim 1:19), because some had made shipwreck of their faith (1:19-20). He was to be nourished in the “faith and of good doctrine” (4:6). Timothy was to be an example of faith to his elders (4:12). He was to follow after faith (6:11). But most importantly the young Timothy was to fight the good fight of faith (6:12).  

Application
Our purpose today is the same plea, to fight for and contend for the faith. What has been entrusted to us has to be kept. Timothy may have been young, but Paul trusted him with the Gospel. You and I are being handed the glorious gospel that saves sinners. The gospel of Jesus Christ that was preached to us and led to our salvation, must be cherished and held onto. Any corrupters of pure doctrine must be opposed.  Embracing culture and loosening our grip on doctrine will shipwreck the church. We are a light set on a hill, we must shine with the radiance of the Gospel. The church and it’s doctrine will not be accepted by the world, it’s not our duty to water down the truth that saves. Truth that does not lead to deliverance is not truth at all. The truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ sets people free from the bondage of sin. If chains are not being broken, lives being restored and made holy, then we are preaching another gospel. The same Gospel that delivered us and freed us from sin, will be the same Gospel that will bring revival to our cities and world. 

Part 2 to be continued on 2 Timothy

Robert Prater

Intro: Letters to the Thessalonians

1 Thessalonians

Thessalonica was a port city and commercial center located a hundred miles from Philippi. The Egnatian Way linking Rome to Byzantium passed through the city making it one of the wealthiest trade centers in the Roman Empire. Because of this strategic location, Thessalonica became a base for the spread of the gospel in Macedonia and Greece.  Paul writes his first letter to the church at Thessalonica somewhere around AD 51-52 from the city of Corinth. This church was founded by Paul on his second missionary journey which is recorded in Acts 16:1-18:22. Acts 17:1-4 reveals that as Paul entered the city of Thessalonica, he immediately went to the synagogue of the Jews and preached Jesus to them. Although some of the people were persuaded (some devout Greeks and leading women), the Jews became angry at Paul’s message and forced him out of the city (Acts 17:5-10). After Paul’s removal from Thessalonica, he fled to Berea where he also faced persecution and was eventually thrown out of the city (Acts 17:11-14). Leaving Timothy and Silas in Berea, Paul went to Athens and was rejoined by them at a later time (Acts 17:15-16). From Athens, Timothy was sent back to Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 3:2) and Paul traveled to Corinth alone (Acts 18:1). Timothy and Silas eventually joined Paul in Corinth (Acts 18:5) and from the good report of Timothy about the church, Paul wrote this letter to the church at Thessalonica.

Paul wrote as a proud father who rejoiced in the faithfulness of his children. Paul also knew they were experiencing persecution for their faith in Jesus Christ and for this reason he wrote to encourage them and remind them of their hope in Christ.  Evidently the return of Christ was central to Paul's message here because he answers many questions about the second coming of Christ. He also addresses sexual purity which was an ongoing problem for the early church. Pagan religions often condoned sexual encounters as part of their rites, and ancient Roman culture itself had few sexual boundaries. Paul urges the Thessalonians not to participate in sexual activity outside of marriage. Reminding them that the body was God's temple and should be kept holy.  

Paul’s letter to the church at Thessalonica is one of encouragement and comfort as well as a reminder to be faithful to God. His words are just as relevant today as they were 2000 years ago as believers are tempted to lose heart in the midst of hardship. Paul challenges the follower of Christ to endure trials and look forward to the hope we have in Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians

Reports had come to Paul of continued progress in the Thessalonian church and their faithfulness to the gospel. But some doctrinal problems had also arisen. False teachers had begun to tell the believers that the day of the Lord was already at hand. They misunderstood Paul's words that the day of the Lord would come suddenly. Some believers had even stopped working and were just waiting for the Lord. They were losing hope. In this letter Paul reminded them that they had been called by God and saved through Christ's work. He exhorted them to stand firm in Christ and to work hard waiting for Jesus' return.

Today this message remains just important for believers in Jesus.  We live in a culture so focused on the material that Christians often forget the spiritual realities that should dictate our lives.   We must resist the gradual slip into increased self-centeredness.  As you read the words of 2 Thessalonians, allow them to rekindle your hope and fan into flame your desire to live in God-honoring, spiritually productive ways.

Robert Prater

Transformation

Transformation is something all Christians should desire.  Spiritual Transformation is a change in a person’s character that is effected on the basis of receiving the benefits of God’s actions in Jesus Christ.  So what does transformation look like?  This Sunday at Crosstown I'll be preaching study about this transformation which was a the theme from our readings in the New Testament Challenge this week.  Hope to see you there!

Robert

Prison Epistles Introduction

(Paul in Prison, by Rembrandt)

This week we’ll begin reading the Prison Epistles in our New Testament Challenge.  The Prison Epistles refer to four letters in the New Testament written by the apostle Paul during his time under house arrest in Rome between approximately 60—62 AD. They include Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Philemon.  (We’ll be reading the first three this week)  The first three of these epistles were written to specific local groups of Christians in the cities for which the books were named.

Ephesians

The city of Ephesus was the capitol of the Roman province of Asia which is modern day Turkey. Located at the intersection of several major trade routes, it was a major commercial center in the Roman empire. Paul used the city as a center for his missionary work in the region. Ephesians was written to the believers at Ephesus and covers areas of doctrine (chapters 1—3) and application (chapters 4—6). Of great importance is this letter's emphasis on salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), church unity (Ephesians 4), and spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Philippians

Philippi was a culturally diverse Roman city on the main highway from the eastern provinces to Rome, and the church at Philippi had a very diverse group of believers. Paul wrote this letter to thank the Philippians for their financial support of Paul’s missionary work.  (4:10-19) Again, despite this letter was written while Paul was in prison, it is one of the most joyful books in the whole New Testament.  It's most prominent theme is joy, specifically the joy of serving Jesus. Paul also wanted to address his circumstances at the time of his writing as well as his hope to see them again. (1:19-26)  Also, it’s important to note women played an important role in life and ministry of the church Paul founded in the city of Philippi.  (cf. Acts 16:11-15, 40)  He mentions two in chapter four, Euodia and Syntyche.  Paul describes Euodia and Syntyche as "women who contended at my side in the cause of the gospel" (4:3). From this we infer that they were leading members and co-workers of Paul in this congregation, making the contention between them all the more harmful.  Paul encouraged them to seek harmony with one another.  Paul was concerned that they "be of the same mind in the Lord."

Colossians

The city of Colossae was about a hundred miles east of Ephesus. At one time it was a large and strategic city but by the time of this writing it had declined into the shadows of nearby cities.

The Colossian church was experiencing the same sorts of problems that other early churches had encountered. Certain members were teaching that the observance of Jewish rulers about food, the Sabbath, and special festivals needed to be added to the Christian faith.  Paul was very concerned for the spiritual condition of these Christians.  He did not want them to be swayed by the teachings of  others that would pull them away from the simplicity and sufficiency of Christ. 

Colossians 1:15-18 has been called "The Great Christology", because it sets forth Paul's inspired conviction and understanding of just who Jesus Christ.  His point:  Jesus is sufficient for salvation and is all that we need. 

Despite Paul's situation during the writing of the Prison Epistles, he was not hindered from sharing the Gospel message with others or writing letters to encourage individuals and churches. Acts 28:30-31 tells us, "He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance." Even in this difficult context, God was at work to empower Paul to change the lives of many during his time and ours through these works now known as the Prison Epistles.

We too as Christians, whatever trials we face, can always seek to advance Christ’s kingdom and God’s glory.  We too can be triumphant, and can learn to be content in whatever circumstances and say as Paul, ‘I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”  (Philippians 4:13)

Robert Prater

Intro to Luke and 2 Corinthians

The Gospel of Luke

 Luke is the longest of the four Gospels, and the only one with a sequel-the book of Acts. Luke, a physician, was not an eyewitness to the events surrounding Jesus but gathered reports from others to provide "an orderly account" of the events to someone named Theophilus.  (Luke 1:3)  Luke was a companion of the Apostle Paul during his missionary travels and has also been called Luke the Evangelist because of this very reason. Luke was not one of the Apostles but was likely a Greek by birth who was very well educated and (Col 4:11) who was possibly brought to faith in Christ by Paul during one of his missions

Little is known about Theophilus. We don't know if this Theophilus, which means friend of God or lover of God, was a given name or a name taken after conversion (which was a common practice). The title given to him by Luke "most excellent" indicates he held prominence and may have been a high ranking official in Roman society.

There is external and internal evidence indicating that both the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts may have been written at the same time (61-64 A.D.). There is no mention in the Book of Acts of historical events after A.D. 62 and nothing is said of the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70   

Since Luke was a Greek it appears that he wanted the Gentile Christian’s to understand that God offers salvation to all who would trust in the Son of God. This third gospel presented the works and the teachings of Jesus Christ in a way that the non-Jew would more easily understand and this is why this gospel was not intended specifically for the Jews. It seems evident, just as in the Book of Acts, that Luke wrote this to give an historical and factual account of Jesus Christ’s ministry for Theophilus, who was likely a converted Gentile

The fact that his main interest was in the redemptive plan of salvation of what God had planned from the beginning is testimony to the fact that the audience was those who were within the Body of Christ and were Gentile by birth. The style of Luke’s writing has an apologetic nature to it with highly accurate details and genealogies that we might expect of someone of a higher, Greek up-bringing and which the Greeks of the day would better appreciate. It seems that Luke is interested in those who the world neglects, especially the Jewish religious leadership of the day. Those who were being neglected like children, women, and the poor, were an emphasis in this gospel so it would appear that his audience also included those who were disenfranchised in Judea during the 1st century.

Luke gives us the purpose in the very beginning in Luke 1:1-4.  As with Luke’s Book of Acts, one of the reasons for Luke’s writing this gospel was to stress the humanity of Christ which may be why he gave a highly accurate and vividly detailed genealogy of Jesus Christ and account of His birth. he gives us an exacting, accurate, and detailed account of Jesus’ earthly ministry and writes it in such a way as to be one of the most historically reliable accounts that stands up to ancient and modern historicity standards and scholarship.

He tells us in the very first chapter that his intention was to give a well-ordered, accurate account of the ministry of Christ and reminds his reader of this in writing “to know the certainty” of these things that he has learned (1:4)

2 Corinthians

 

Second Corinthians is a deeply personal letter--a response to the complex history between the Apostle Paul and the church he had established in Corinth.  It shares the concern, passion, intimate feelings and thoughts of an apostle who is defending his own apostleship and ministry in a church which he founded.  Various allegations against Paul are scattered throughout the letter (1:15ff; 3:1ff; 10:1ff, 13ff; 11:7ff; 12:12).

This epistle is actually Paul's fourth letter to the church in Corinth. Paul mentions his first letter in 1 Corinthians 5:9. His second letter is the book of 1 Corinthians. Three times in 2 Corinthians Paul references a third and painful letter: "For I wrote to you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears ..." (2 Corinthians 2:4, ESV). And finally, we have Paul's fourth letter, the book of 2 Corinthians probably written around 56-57 A.D.

As we learned in 1 Corinthians, the church in Corinth was weak, struggling with division and spiritual immaturity. Paul's authority had been undermined by an opposing teacher who was misleading and dividing with false teachings.

In an attempt to solve the turmoil, Paul traveled to Corinth, but the distressing visit only fueled the church's resistance. (2:1) When Paul returned to Ephesus he wrote again to the church, pleading with them to repent and avoid God's judgment. Later Paul received good news through Titus that many in Corinthian had indeed repented, but a small and fractious group continued to cause problems there.

From this letter we learn the need to forgive and restore those who are repentant. The need to embrace the New Covenant through the resources God gave us…The Word, the Holy Spirit, keeping our focus on things eternal (the unseen). He shows us the ministry of reconciliation and the principle of giving. He also warns us not to look at the outward appearance or credentials of our leaders but to look at their heart and match their teachings with the Word of God. Through Paul’s example of hardships, we can also endure through hardships, pain, weakness, and difficulty. Because at our weakest, God’ power is made perfect in us. (12:9-10)

Robert Prater

Week 4 Family Devotions

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK FOUR

Devotional #13 (Oct. 13)

True Courage

Mark 15:42-46

Explore:  What is courage?  How would you define it?  That’s right!  Courage is standing up for what you believe is right even when you know the danger.  Who usually comes to mind when you try to picture courageous people?  (Soldiers, policemen, firemen, etc…)  All sorts of people have courage and show it every day.  People show courage in lots of different ways.  Today we are going to read about a man who showed tremendous courage in a situation where a lot of people would have backed away.  Let’s read about Joseph of Arimathea.

(Read devotional text)  How do you think Joseph of Arimathea showed courage in the story we just read?  It doesn’t seem like a very dangerous situation that Joseph found himself in – but it was.  Joseph was a very important member of society.  He probably enjoyed a certain status in the community .  He was also a follower of Christ.  Jesus had just been on trial and crucified.  It was not a good time to be a follower of Christ .

Application:  Joseph doesn’t think about what people will think of him or what will happen to him, but goes before Pilate (the very man who sent Jesus to the cross) and asks for the right to bury Jesus.  In doing so, he shows himself to be loyal to Christ.  The Bible says that “he gathered up courage” (Mark 15:43 NASB) to go and see Pilate.  He knew the danger, he knew what could happen to him, but he did it anyway.  That is true courage.

Discussion for the family:  What might have happened to Joseph in this situation?  (He could have been imprisoned and lost his standing in the community)  What are some ways we can show courage and strength in living our life for God?  (Read 1 Corinthians 16:13-14) 

Prayer:  Dear Lord, help us to take courage by letting others hear and know of Jesus as Savior through our words and actions.  May our actions point to You and Your Son.

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK FOUR

Devotional #14 (Oct. 14)

Holy Conductors

2 Corinthians 1:12

(Said in your best train conductor voice)  ALL ABOARD!! Last call for Heaven and Pearly Gates!  ALL ABOARD!!

Explore: Think of your life as a train.  In your life you have all sorts of people who are passengers.  Your parents are riding with you on your train.  You have friends that, throughout your life, will get on and off the “You” train.  There will be nice people and mean people.  There will be people trying to get you to do things you are not supposed to do.  There will also be people who are friendly and treat you right.  Also on this train, that is your life, is a conductor – YOU.  You are the conductor of your life.  A conductor’s job is not easy.  As the conductor of your life it is up to you to make decisions on how to handle the passengers.  It is also up to you to decide what goes on in your train:  The question, is what kind of conductor do you want to be?  Who do you want to be operating your train?

Application:  Paul writes to the Corinthians and tells them that he has conducted his life in holiness and godly sincerity.  He encourages them to do the same; to conduct their train by the grace of God and not by the wisdom of the world (2 Corinthians 1:12).  We are conductors of our own lives.  It is up to us to decide how we want to run it.  The condition of the train when it reaches its destination is also up to us.  We have to decide whether or not we want to follow Paul’s advice and conduct our lives in a holy manner.  How will you conduct your life?

Discussion for the family:  What are some ways we might conduct ourselves in a worldly manner?  What are some practical we can conduct ourselves in a holy manner?  (Read Titus 2:11-12; 1 John 2:4-6) 

Prayer:  Dear Lord, help us to conduct our life in a godly manner before Christ and others in wisdom and sincerity. 

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK FOUR

Devotional #15 (Oct. 17)

                         

Get up on your Feet!   

Luke 5:12-26

(Parents:  Tell your children you want to have a race, but you want to change the rules.  Tie their feet and legs so that they can’t move.  Then have them race around the house, without using their legs.  After they are done, bring them back and untie them.)

How hard was it to race without using your legs?  What was so frustrating about it?  Did you get made or upset?  How did you feel when I untied your legs?  Can you imagine what it would be like if you could never use your legs?

Explore:  Jesus met lots of people who either couldn’t use their legs or couldn’t see or were very sick.  One of the most wonderful things about Jesus was His ability to heal all those people.  They used to come from miles and miles, just to see him and have him touch them and heal them.  One man, who couldn’t use his legs had friends who wanted to help him so much that they took him up on the roof of the building where Jesus was teaching and lowered him down through the ceiling!  Do you know what Jesus did?  He healed him, but that’s not all.  Jesus said to that man, “Your sins are forgiven.”  Isn’t that amazing?  Jesus not only told him to get up and go home, but he forgave him of his sins.  Imagine what it would be like to live your whole life not being able to walk, then in one afternoon your legs are healed and your sins are forgiven.  Jesus loves us so much, He not only heals us and takes care of us when we are sick, but he also forgives us when we sin. What this man needed most was forgiveness, just like you and just like your friends.  

Discussion for the family:   What characteristics did these guys display when trying to get their  friend to Jesus?  Do you have friends you care about?  What can we do to “open” Jesus up to those who need Him? 

Prayer:  Dear Lord, help us to bring others we care about into the healing presence of Jesus.  May we never forget what is most important and what every one of us needs to hear Jesus say, “Friend, your sins are forgiven you.”

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK FOUR

Devotional #16 (Oct. 18)

                         

Do you Pass the TEST?   

2 Corinthians 13:5-7

Explore:  Imagine that you are sitting at your desk in a classroom at school.  All around you fellow students are getting their notebooks out and putting away their book bags.  The class clown is busily making funny noises and telling jokes.  All in all, you figure it’s business as usual for your class. Things are shaping up to be rather normal, but you suddenly notice what none of the other students have seen so far.  Your teacher, at her desk, is quietly pulling out stacks of white paper stapled together.  Your breath catches in your chest, surely it can’t be!  You would have remembered!  Before you can pull your notes out for a last look, you teacher announces, “Alright class!  Put away your notes and books, it’s time for…a TEST!”

We all hate tests, they’re no fun whatsoever, but they serve a purpose.  We take tests to tell us whether or not we’ve learned something.  In school they test our knowledge, but in the Bible we find a different sort of test.  The Apostle Paul says that there is a test each of us should taken on a regular basis – is Jesus Christ in us?

(Read devotional text) 

Application:  Paul encourages us to examine ourselves to see whether or not we are doing the right thing.  When we stop and look at our lives and how we are living we should be able to see whether or not we are letting Christ lead us along.  How often you take this test is up to you.  However, the more we test ourselves, the better Christians we will be.  Take a moment and think about the decisions you’ve made lately.  Is it clear that Christ is in you?  Do you pass the test? 

Discussion for the family:   How can we know whether we have true faith?  What is the evidence that we can really know whether we’re living a genuine Christian life? (Read Galatians 5:16-26)

Prayer:  Father in heaven, help us to honestly examine ourselves.  Thank You that as we do so, we can trust You will show us in Your word what is displeasing to You.  May Jesus Christ truly live in us.

1 Corinthians Introduction

Corinth was an important city in ancient Greece notorious for its immorality. Greek plays of the day normally depicted Corinthians as drunk and unruly. There was even a Greek word for their behavior- korinthiazomai or "acting like a Corinthian." (F.F. Bruce. The Book of the Acts) High above the city stood the temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Thousand of priestesses, who acted as sacred prostitutes, came down every night and plied their trade in the streets of Corinth.

The apostle Paul founded this church on his second missionary journey (Acts 18:1-18). Paul spent one and half years in Corinth (he spent three years in Ephesus). At the time Paul writes this letter (54 or 55 A.D.), the church at Corinth was in serious trouble. Paul had just received disturbing letters from two members. The first was a report from the household of Chloe that detailed the divisions and immorality in the young church. (1 Cor. 1:11) The second was a set of questions raised by a group that included Stephanas, Fortunatus and Archaicus about things like marriage and Christian liberty. Paul attempts to answer both of these letters and to provide additional Christian instruction.

Paul had left the Corinthian church under the leadership of Aquila and Priscilla in the spring of 53 A.D. It seems that the young Corinthian church had failed to protect itself from the decadent culture of the city, and that the immaturity of the Corinthians had given way to sectarian divisions. Members were dragging into court to sue each other rather than settling their disputes within the church.

Other issues that necessitated this letter are spelled out in Chapters 5 through 15 – a case of immorality, marriage, celibacy, food offered to idols, worship, spiritual gifts (especially speaking in tongues), and bodily resurrection. The letter contains some of the earliest Christian teaching regarding the resurrection (see chapter 15) and the Lord’s Supper (see chapter 11) and one of the most beloved chapters in all the New Testament – Paul’s hymn to Christian love (chapter 13).

The early Christian movement struggled with people making the transition from pagan religions to becoming faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Old behaviors, habits, and understandings were often difficult to change. 1 Corinthians, more than any other letter, reveals the broken humanity that filled early Christian churches. (Many of the problems and questions the Corinthian church was dealing with are still present in the church today).

Here's something to consider in light of today's readings from the first chapter. During the time Paul was writing this letter there was a bumper crop of false Messiahs. Many of them tricked people into accepting them by the promise of wonders and miracles. The Jews expected big signs. In Jesus they found someone who was meek and lowly, one who avoided the spectacular, one who served and one who ended up on death row and the cross. It seemed an impossible picture of the Chosen One of God.

To the Greeks, anyone who died crucified on a cross was considered weak, not someone to be admired or worshipped. In Paul’s day, there were those who hailed man’s intellect and accomplishments, finding little to no use for the preaching of a crude cross and a crucified Messiah. This crowd considered followers of Jesus to be “foolish.” (And does that sound familiar?)

But to the Jews who believed in Jesus, they found their true Messiah to be far greater than they had ever dreamed. And to the believing Greeks, wisdom far superior to all their ideas of truth. In every way, God is superior to man!

“But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things o the world to shame the things which are strong.” (1 Corinthians 1:27)

Robert Prater

WEEK 3 Devotionals

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK THREE

Devotional #9 (Oct. 6)

The Baptism of Jesus

Mark 1:9-11

 

Explore:  One of the thing amazing recorded events in the Bible happens in the very first chapter of the Gospel of Mark.  John the Baptist has been preaching the coming of Christ.  Imagine hearing this amazing man preach about the coming of a SAVIOR.  For weeks people have been listening to him preach, confessing their sins and being baptized.  Then the day arrives, you actually SEE the savior, the Son of God that that this man has been talking about and HE, TOO, wants to be BAPTIZED! John the Baptist takes the Savior down into the water and baptizes him.  As the crowd looks on, the heavens above open and the Spirit like a beautiful white dove descends down and lands on him.  Then a voice, thunderous and seeming to come from nowhere but the heavens, says, “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.”  (Mark 1:11)  You know that God has just spoken.  God has just named this man Jesus as His beloved Son.

Application:  Why?  Why did Jesus have to be baptized?  It’s obvious that He is the Son of God, so why would He need to be baptized?  What sins did Jesus have that he needed to be forgiven for?  The baptism of Jesus marks the beginning of His ministry on earth.  Jesus was baptized to set an example for us to follow.  He could He ask His followers to do or be a part of something that He would not do?  Jesus showed obedience to God and at the same time set a powerful example for us to follow.

Discussion for the family:  Be ready to discuss baptism.  (Mark 16:15; Acts 2:38; Romans 6:4; Galatians 3:27; 1 Peter 3:21) In what ways can you be obedient to God? 

Prayer:  Dear Lord, thank you for giving us the opportunity to share in the life of Jesus.  Help us to know your will more fully as we learn from the life and example of Jesus.  Thank you for letting our life intersect the life of your Son through baptism. 

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK THREE

Devotional #10 (Oct. 7)

On Guard!

Romans 16:17-18

Explore: When you hear the exclamation ‘ON GUARD,’ what does it make you think of?  It makes me think of two people facing off against each other across a battlefield.  Their swords are raised in antipcation of a fight.  They call out ‘On Guard’ because, being gentlemen, they want to give their opponent a chance to prepare before the attack.  And that’s really what it means.  The phrase ‘On Guard’ means to prepare yourself for attack, to be ready to face the unknown.  Paul concludes this book to the Romans by basically yelling at them ‘ON GUARD’!  From the passage we just read, what do you think Paul wants them (and us) to be ‘On Guard’ for?  He is warning them to be on the lookout for people who will try to lead them away from the Word of God.  Paul knew there would be people who would be very persuasive and make grand promises, but would deceive them.

Application:  Today we have to guard agasin the same things.  Everywhere there are people trying to teach us things that are not true and make us believe differently than the Bible teaches.  Paul says that unless we are on our guard against such people, we will be led away.  How prepared are we to compare and contrast teaching that sounds really good against what we already know? Do you practice anchoring your faith directly to the Word of God, so that you won't be vulnerable to deception? Today is a great day to start. How do we guard ourselves against false teaching?  We should never take what someone tells us as truth without checking it out for ourselves. 

Discussion for the family:  What is the only way we can know the truth?  (John 8:31-32)  That’s right, God has given us His written word, the Bible, to guard and guide us away from false teachers.  (Read 2 Timothy 2:15)

Prayer:  Dear Father, help us to never let our guard down and be misled by false teaching.  Help us keep focused on You and to study and mediate on Your Word.  Thank you for Your Word of truth.  Lead us in Your ways that we may not deviate from Your teachings.

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK THREE

Devotional #11 (Oct. 10)

Through the Eye of a Needle

Mark 10:17-27

(Parents: Gather a sewing needle and a short piece of yarn.  Hold them both out for your children to see.)  I have a challenge for you.  I want you to put this small piece of yarn through the eye of this needle.

(Parents:  Be ready to reward them if they can complete the challenge.  Chances are, they will not be able to do it.)  How hard was that challenge?  What were some of the problems that you had?  (Parents;  Spend some time letting your children discuss their problems with the challenge, then read the devotional text.)

Explore:  You had a tough time with the yarn.  How hard do you think it would be to get a camel through there?  You’re right!  That would be impossible.  Jesus uses this to illustrate the impossibility of a rich man entering heaven.  Why is it impossible? It is clear from the context that riches tend to destroy the qualities you must have in order to enter the kingdom of God.  Remember just prior to this you had this rich young ruler come up to Jesus and asked what he needed to do to follow Him. Jesus told him to keep God's Word, and then to sell everything and follow Him. But the rich guy couldn't let go of all he had--and so instead he walked away. That prompted Jesus to say these words we read in verse 25 about a camel trying to go through the eye of a needle. 

Application: Now does this mean that everyone who has a lot of money will not go to heaven?  No.  He is saying we must trust in God and not our wealth.  That when it is time to go and be with God, our money will not get us there.  Jesus was not condemning money, but was simply pointing out the problem people face when they put their trust in it.  Our trust should be in God and not money.

Discussion for the family:  What are the true riches in your life?  How is it possible to trust in riches, instead of in God?  (Read 1 Timothy 6:9-10)  How can we use the “good gifts” God has graciously given us?  (Read 1 Timothy 6:17-18)

Prayer: Father, help us to trust only in You for everything and for every detail of your life, and not in our riches. 

NEW TESTAMENT CHALLENGE:  WEEK THREE

Devotional #12   (Oct. 11)

Race for the Ultimate Prize

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Explore:  I love the Olympics!  I love just about every single event, from track and field to synchronized swimming.  If the event is televised, chances are I’m watching it.  It’s amazing and inspiring to witness top athletes from all over the world come together to compete for the title of “World’s Best.”  And when a athlete from the good ole’ USA wins gold, you can’t help but be proud.  But any athlete that competes in the Olympic games didn’t get there by chance.  It took years of hard work, dedication and practice to achieve their Olympic dreams.  It took special trainers working with them everyday, critiquing, encouraging and training.  It took special diets to give them the nutrition to keep them healthy and strong.  So much time and work contributes to their success and if they have failed in any area of their training it may cost them the gold.

Application:  Paul compares the athletic games to that of a Christian race.  Notice what he says, “Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things.’  (1 Corinthians 9:25)  We as Christians must exercise self-control – always mindful of what we read, what we watch on TV or how we present ourselves.  We should constantly train, nurture and feed our spiritual lives, for we as Christians are not running a race for a worldly prize.  We are racing for the ultimate prize – eternal life!

Discussion for the family:  What are some things that you work hard for?  What kind of effort do you put forth to be good at those things?  How can that type of determination help your walk with God? (Read 2 Peter 1:5-11)

Prayer:  Father, help us in this race we call life.  May we choose to run our race with determination and conviction.  May we press forward to the eternal prize You have in store for us in heaven.