1 & 2 Corinthians – Be Still…

2 Chronicles 23:1-11 – Priestly Action

Read 2 Chronicles 23:1-11

Wasn’t the temple the perfect place for such an elite group of believers to meet for a planning session? The reigning Queen would never know since she would rarely, if ever, frequent that Holy place. You have to applaud the brave priest, Jehoiada for arranging this gathering. He was also likely instrumental in the plot to keep infant Joash alive. It’s good to remember Joash was his nephew, too.

We can learn a lot from this priest’s actions. Jehoiada bravely chose to make a move to hide the rightful king, the king who would further protect God’s promise to David about their forever kingdom. A high priority indeed for a good priest to be aware of. Do we make keeping God’s commands or trusting his promises our top priority?

Advent 🎁 2 Corinthians 8:9 – Grace

I thought we’d take a little diversion from our genealogies in 1 Chronicles to focus on the coming of Jesus. We are in the season of Advent for a few more days, and then it will be Christmas once again. We’ll look at some Bible passages, including prophecies that speak of Jesus.

Advent is the time of year some churches dedicate for preparing for Jesus’ coming–both of them! The Bible tells us about Jesus’ first coming as a wee baby, so humble and mild. Jesus himself also promised that he would come again and return for us. So Advent is not only a preparation for Christmas but a reminder to be ready for Jesus’ return.

1 Corinthians 16:15-24 – Faith Communities

Read 1 Corinthians 16:15-24

a small group of people sitting in a circle talking

Paul is recommending the Corinthians look for encouragement from other brothers and sisters of the faith. It’s like networking and fellowship combined. The movement of Christ-followers is growing. Without the internet and more modern ways of connecting, word of mouth was key in connecting people who should spend time together.

The Corinthians had the assurance that they weren’t alone. Sometimes it can be frightening to head in a new direction in life. To embrace a Christian life and start a new relationship with a Savior who was not visibly present was daunting for them, and it can be daunting for us as well. That’s why Paul models for us the importance of community, faith communities to be precise.

1 Corinthians 16:1-14 – Wrapping Up

Read 1 Corinthians 16:1-14

Paul has dealt with a lot of big issues facing the young church in Corinth. The last one before he closes this letter deals with their giving. It was important then, and it is important now. I always appreciate when I am part of a congregation that is mission focused. Living as a missionary here in Mexico has given me a whole new perspective.

Paul’s wisdom on collecting for missions is based on consistency. First, he uses a model that is consistent with another church. When you find a process that works, it’s easy for others to rely on and model after it. Paul is also urging them to set aside their offerings consistently. “Don’t wait until I get there and then try to collect it all at once.” When we put a little away each week, it is much easier to be generous.

1 Corinthians 15:50-58 – Transformed!

Read 1 Corinthians 15:50-58

blue arrows in shape of circle with word CHANGE inside

Wasn’t the tone of Paul’s close to Chapter 15 simply invigorating? Even though Paul did a brilliant job explaining the promise of resurrection, it’s still something no one has done, except Jesus. He has led the way and we simply wait our turn. We wait for our glorious transformation.

Whether we have already died or are still alive when Jesus returns, we will still rise with Jesus and receive the full transformation. As Paul said, “let me reveal to you a wonderful secret.” Who doesn’t like to be in on a great secret? I can remember how hard it was to keep the secret I had arranged for a surprise 50^th birthday party for my husband David. It was quite the elaborate event with lots of moving parts to make it work. Nothing near the incredible, miraculous secret Paul talked about for those who will skip past death.