Lesson 17. The Gospel: the Message that Addicts Us to Ministry
Day 3
In the following section of 1 Corinthians 16, Paul provides final instructions to the Corinthians.
Now about our brother Apollos: I strongly urged him to go to you with the brothers. He was quite unwilling to go now, but he will go when he has the opportunity. Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love. You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord's people. I urge you, brothers and sisters, to submit to such people and to everyone who joins in the work and labors at it. I was glad when Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus arrived, because they have supplied what was lacking from you. For they refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition.
1 Corinthians 16:12-18 NIV
Question 1. Read 1 Corinthians 16:13-14. How can you see the cross of Jesus Christ in these instructions to the Corinthians?
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It is as if Paul has fixed his eyes on Jesus, who for the joy before Him endured the cross, as he instructs the Corinthians on how to live. He tells them to be on guard, to be watchful against Satanic attacks and uprisings of the flesh, and to be courageous and strong. In the Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus instructed His disciples to "watch and pray", lest they fall into temptation. He wanted them to be strong and courageous, as He would push forward to the cross with unwavering courage and supernatural strength. Then Paul tells the Corinthians to "do everything in love," just as Jesus loved the disciples until the end (John 13:1), as He suffered, bled, and died in their place.
Question 2. What does Paul say about the household of Stephanus and what do you learn from his statements about them?
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The household of Stephanus "addicted themselves to the ministry" (1 Corinthians 16:15 KJV). The Bible uses the word "addicted" to mean "devoted" and "committed," all positive words to show the total sacrifice the household of Stephanus was willing to make in ministry. Likewise, Jesus was addicted to His ministry as He offered His total self on the cross for us, giving His body, blood, and Spirit for us out of love.
Paul ends this section with "such men deserve recognition" (1 Corinthians 16:18) because of their total commitment to ministering to others. People who are committed with their whole hearts to serving others should be recognized.
In full obedience to His Father and complete commitment to us, Jesus died on the cross and was then exalted to the right hand of the Father and given the name above every name (Philippians 2:5-11). As He "did everything in love," Jesus' love compelled Him to fully commit Himself to you, and He now deserves full recognition and worship.
Question 3. How is the gospel of Jesus Christ working in your heart today?
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