27 Flee Idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:14-11:1)
Paul concludes by summarizing the his 2 main points: 1) We should limit our freedoms out of love for our neighbor; and 2) We need to take care lest our freedoms are a covering for idolatry.
Paul concludes by summarizing the his 2 main points: 1) We should limit our freedoms out of love for our neighbor; and 2) We need to take care lest our freedoms are a covering for idolatry.
1Corinthians 10:13 is often memorized as a stand-alone verse that promises God always provides a way to escape sin, if only you’ll take it. But in context, Paul is saying something quite different.
Appealing to the example of the Israelites in the wilderness, Paul warns that not everyone who saw the miracles entered the promised land. Being part of the tribe does not guarantee God’s favor.
In 1Corinthians 9, Paul uses his own situation as an example of how the Corinthians ought to think about exercising their freedom. As an apostle, Paul has the right to receive financial support, but declined to take any support from them. He wants the Corinthians to learn from his example and exercise their freedom the same way. In part 2 of his argument, Paul explains why he declined to take support.
In 1Corinthians 9, Paul uses his own situation as an example of how the Corinthians ought to think about exercising their freedom. As an apostle, Paul has the right to receive financial support, but declined to take any support from them. He wants the Corinthians to learn from his example and exercise their freedom the same way. In part 1 of his argument, Paul defends his right to accept support.
I admit I was dreading the meat sacrificed to idols section (1Corinthians 8-10). How could that possibly be relevant today? Now I wish I’d studied it years ago! I hope you’re finding it as challenging and engaging as I am. October milestones: We set a new record for subscribers in one month, and we hit podcast #475! How should we celebrate #500?
In 1Corinthians 8, Paul argues that knowing the truth is not enough; we must use our knowledge in the context of loving our neighbors as ourselves and consider the implications of our actions.
Paul addresses a new question: Can we eat meat sacrificed to idols? His answer gives us deep insight into the relationship between knowledge and freedom, truth and love.
Paul concludes his advice on marriage by addressing the engaged. As he explains his thinking, Paul gives us one of the most profound lessons we can learn in this life.
In 1Corinthians 7, Paul addresses believers married to unbelievers, and tells them it is best to honor their marriage vows.
In 1Corinthians 7 Paul turns to God’s purpose for sexuality and his discussion could be the “poster child” for the importance of understanding the context. I hope you’re enjoying 1Corinthians as much as I am. I’m particularly encouraged by your emails, tweets, and the many new subscribers! I love hearing from you!
In 1 Corinthians 7:7-11, Paul addresses the widows and widowers, telling them both singleness and marriage are good gifts from God. Then he addresses those considering divorce as a way to please God.