1 Corinthians 13

Greetings,

1 Corinthians 13 is one of the most recognizable passages in the Bible. This 'hymn to love' sticks out as a pinnacle of Pauline poetry. Quick study can not uncover the tremendous structure and balance to these verses. So, while quick study this is, I encourage you to take time to meditate more closely on this chapter.

The memory passage is
1 Corinthians 13:4-7, 12-13 (ESV)
⁴ Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant ⁵ or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; ⁶ it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. ⁷ Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
¹² For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. ¹³ So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

The outline theme is Correct Love.

After spending Chapter 12 on the gifts of the Spirit, Paul now expands on 'the more excellent way' of love. The first three verses contrast the power and importance of gifts with the supreme importance of love. Whether one speaks in tongues, prophecies, understands knowledge and mysteries, has tremendous faith, or gives sacrificially of life and resources, if it is done without love 'I gain nothing'. Even the most selfless act of sacrifice can be done selfishly if it is not covered in true love.

In verses 4-6, he then defines true love in positive (what it is) and negative (what it isn't) ways. The list is full of virtue and truth. And then in verse 7 he states what love 'does'; bears, believes, hopes, and endures all things.

Love is eternal; it will last forever, while the gifts will pass away (prophecy, tongues, knowledge). These things are partial (imperfect) while the 'perfect' is coming. And when the perfect comes, the imperfect will pass away.

There are many views as to what the 'perfect' is. Some say it is the completion of the New Testament. Some say it is the completion of the new heavens and earth. While others say that it is the state of the church when Christ returns. I know there are much smarter people than me who have studied this extensively, but I can't help but read this very simply. The only thing I know that is perfect is not an 'it' but a "He". And when the Lord returns, there will be no need for special revelation or gifts; we will see Him as He is and He will be our Lord and King.

The last few verses speak to our continued spiritual growth and maturity. We grow in the Lord from infancy to maturity (but never 'full' maturity until He comes). We see and know incompletely (as in a 'fogged-up mirror'), but when we see Him face to face, we will see and know as we have been seen and known.

While faith, hope and love abide to the end, love never ceases. Faith will be replaced with sight and hope with actual fruition (2 Cor 5:7, Rom 8:24) when we see Him face to face, as He is (1 John 3:2).

How does this affect my worship?
If my worship is simply a cleverly selected group of songs played skillfully and effectively, but I have no love in my worship; it is nothing. I can have mission statements and vision statements and policies and mandates about worship...but if my encounter with God in worship is void of love, my worship crashes like a cymbal and then quickly fades away. Even though we know in part, we should seek to know our part fully. Our worship now, while dim and imperfect, should strive to honor Him as He is.

How does this affect my discipleship?
The qualities of love are best demonstrated, not just illustrated. The context that a disciple of Christ learns His love and compassion is through another disciple living it in front of them. We are not to be just learners of doctrine and text, but absorbers of the very character of Christ. As disciple-makers grow in this character, we have an obligation to live it out in those we help disciple.

May you walk in His love today, and forever,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 12

Blessings,

As we continue in our survey of 1 Corinthians, we come to one of the most familiar sections of the book. Chapter 12 leads us to examine spiritual gifts and the function of the body of believers.

The Memory passage is:
1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-7, 27 (ESV)
Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed.
⁴ Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; ⁵ and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; ⁶ and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. ⁷ To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it.

The outline theme is "Correct Gifts in the Body"
Paul states his theme early in the chapter. His goal for the Corinthian church is that they 'not be uniformed'. The correction is rooted in the source of the Corinthians spiritual guidance. When they were idolaters, they were led by mute idols; now they are guided by God. Then he gives them a simple test; no one from the Lord will curse Jesus, and only those who have the Spirit will acknowledge Him as Lord.

Then he addresses the use (and misuse) of the gifts given by the Spirit. There are many gifts, services, and activities but they all fall under the sovereign control of God (4-6). And they are given for the common good, not the good of the individual only (7). Following is one of the list of gifts that we find in scripture (for others see 12:28-31, Rom 12:6-8, Eph 4:11, 1 Pet 4:10-11).

This list included nine gifts; wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, distinguishing spirits, speaking in tongues, and interpreting tongues. Paul never lets us forget (mentioned 6 times in vv7-11) that the Spirit is in charge of giving and managing the gifts.

In verse 12 Paul switches to focus on the body. He starts by stating the metaphor of the human body to the body of Christ (12-13) and then goes into a lengthy argument based on the human body (14-20). His first conclusion is that even though there are many parts, they are still part of one body.

In verses 21-26 we see a glimps of the Masterful design. God is in control of who gets what, who does what, and who gets what glory. It is so in our human bodies and in the body of Christ. Those who are honored less by men can be honored more by God. He 'composed' the body so that there should be no division (24-25). We are individuals, but still members of the body of Christ.

The second list of gifts in this chapter comes in verse 28; apostles, prophets, teachers, miracles, healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues. Some suppose that the 'ranking' of the first three are in response to the emphasis the Corinthian church was placing on the other gifts. Paul ends the chapter with a reminder that no one person will have all the gifts, and that we should seek to excell in the higher gifts that edify the body.

How does this affect my worship?
The principles in this chapter seem to parallel some of the issues on a praise team or in congregational worship. There are many parts that must work together to lift corporate praise to God. Still more connection can be made to a choir; one part without the other sounds empty and alone. God's design is evident in the need for us all to work together in the body of Christ. No one person has all of the gifts, and so in order to compliment each others' weaknesses we must work together. Worship happens in a variety of ways in a variety of venues. But the cooperation required for corporate worship symbolizes the unity that can be achieved if the individual members of the body work together as a body. To Him be glory forever.

How does this affect my discipleship?
I noticed that these lists of gifts (and the others) do not list 'discipleship'. I do not believe that discipleship is a gift given to certain believers and not others. It is a specific command to all who follow Christ (disciples) to help others follow Christ (make disciples). Using one's gifts, by the power and direction of the Holy Spirit, is essential in the working of the body of Christ. But responding in obedience to the command of the Lord to make disciples is essential in the life of each Christ-follower.

May to walk in the unity of the Spirit today,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 11

Grace to you and peace,

1 Corinthians 11 deals with two very different issues; head coverings and the Lord's Table. And while these two issues appear on the surface to be unrelated, the underlying theme is the unity and communion in the body of Christ.

The Memory passage is
1 Corinthians 11:1, 3, 23-26 (ESV)
¹ Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.
³ But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God.
²³ For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, ²⁴ and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, "This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me." ²⁵ In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me." ²⁶ For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes.

The Outline Theme is Correct Communion in Christ.

Verse 1 probably goes with (and is often included in) Chapter 10. Paul's teaching about how to live before all people most likely ends with his appeal to imitate him as he imitates Christ.

Verses 2-16 deal with the topic of head coverings. Paul clearly taught the church correct practices and habits in the church (2). Verse 3 gives a very interesting teaching on authority and submission with three examples; man's head is Christ, a wife's head is her husband, and Christ's Head is God. The last example sheds interesting light on submission. Christ is in no way inferior to God and yet He willfully submitted to Him and His will. He modeled perfect submission to authority as He walked on earth. So should our submission to Christ be, and so should a wife's submission to her husband be.

The covering of one's head was a social sign of respect and submission. Some women were apparently casting off their head coverings, but more importantly, their attitude of respect to others and submission to Christ. Men and women complement each other, and a husband and wife are interdependent. But they still must abide under the Biblical order of authority and submission. Paul teaches in verse 16 that this is the practice in all of the churches and should be adhered to along with other 'traditions'.

Verse 17 through the end of the chapter deal with abuses surrounding the Lord's Table. Paul has no commendation for the church, only correction. There were divisions among them that went unresolved even at the Lord's Table. Not only that, but some in the church were going hungry while others had plenty to eat and drank to excess.

Then in vv 23-26 Paul reminds them of the practice of remembering the Lord's Table. The bread (His body) and the cup (His blood) symbolize the work of Christ and should serve as a 'visual sermon' to anyone participating or observing. His body was unselfishly and willfully given as a sacrifice for our benefit. His blood was shed to atone for our sins and give us a new covenant relationship with God. Both of these were reminders of what had happened as well as anticipators of what was to come.

Some were coming to the table while living in willful sin. Not only did this profane the body and blood of Christ (27) but harmed the other members of the church. Each one is to examine himself and discern the body before partaking. Rebellious lifestyles and choices that go unexamined brought about the judgment of God (in this case in the form of sickness and death). God desires to restore us (5:5), but continued rebellion necessitates the discipline of God to bring us to repentance and restoration.

How does this affect my worship?
Some of my most meaningful and personal encounters of worship have come at the Lord's Table. It requires certain reverence and introspection that necessitates opening one's heart to the work of Holy Spirit. While Christ does not 'die again' every time we partake, the memory of His work must remain fresh in our lives. And while the symbols may vary (bread, crackers, juice, wine...) the symbolism is secure; Christ gave His body and shed His blood to cancel the record of debt that I owed for my sin. And while we proclaim His death, we also must rejoice in His coming again. For what He did in the past ensures our future. That grace, and mercy, and hope resides at the core of true heart-worship.

How does this affect my discipleship?
Teaching and practicing the Lord's Table should be a key part of discipleship training. As part of 'all that He commanded', we should instill in new disciples of Christ the importance of remembering the Lord's work through the celebration of the Lord's Table. It does not need to be administered by a member of clergy or any specific person. I have been challenged to think about how I teach my family about the Lord's Table. Many people have different opinions about what it actually means, what it does, and how to do it; but the bottom line is that we are commanded to remember His work. And along with that comes the teaching of His coming again.

May you remember and proclaim the work of Christ today,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 10

Grace to you, and peace from our Lord Jesus Christ,

In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul gives us a valuable history lesson and some practical teaching on temptation.

The memory passage is
1 Corinthians 10:12-14, 31 (ESV)
¹² Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. ¹³ No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. ¹⁴ Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
³¹ So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

The outline theme is Correct Resistance to Temptation.

The history lesson in vv 1-11 can be summarized this way; look at Israel and learn from their mistakes. The Corinthian church was repeating the mistakes of the Israelites. The nation of Israel was extremely blessed with God's supernatural guidance, miraculous deliverance, spiritual leadership (through Moses), spiritual food and spiritual drink. And yet, in spite of all of this, they turned away from God and He punished them in the desert. The Corinthian church was being tempted to crave meat and drink, worship idols, participate in sexually immoral activity, question God's plan and question His appointed leaders.

"These things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction" (11). Learn from history so you don't have to repeat it.

"OK", says Paul, "So you think this won't happen to you? Beware. Take heed." Temptation will come, but it is the same temptation (in general) that has been around from the beginning of man. But, God is faithful. And in His sovereignty He guards your life so that the temptation too much for you to overcome. He gives us two things to deal with temptation; the way of escape and endurance. The way of escape is to 'flee' (10:14, 6:18) from temptation. God can not be tempted, nor does He tempt (James 1:13). And He doesn't always remove the temptation. James 1:2-4 teaches that the testing of your faith (through trials and/or temptations) produces endurance and maturity. In Christ, there is always a way of escape from temptation and an abundance of endurance to stand strong in Him.

How do we respond to idolatry? Just like we respond to temptation and sexual immorality; flee. The unity in the body of Christ is damaged when people worship idols. Even being 'participants' in idolatry by eating food offered to demons diminishes our worship and damages our witness. You may be free to eat or drink something based on your convictions, but always be aware of the consciences of others. If you are with someone who has a major issue with what you are eating or drinking, don't do it. Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 8 is simple; if it causes a brother to stumble, I won't do it. And his conclusion here in v 31 is that everything should be done to the glory of God, 'that they may be saved' (33).

How does this affect my worship?
The ultimate fullness of worship is an entire life that glorifies God. Paul's summary comes out of the direct application to eating and drinking, but he adds the 'whatever you do' to cover all the bases. And let's not overlook the importance of thankfulness (30). The thankful heart is the core of worship expression. If we combine this with Colossians 3:17, we have no loopholes; 'in whatever you eat, drink, say and do; glorify God.' That pretty much covers it.

How does this affect my discipleship?
As part of 'teaching them to observe all that [Jesus] commanded' (Matt 28:20), we should never neglect the study of the past; ours and others'. In this chapter, Paul uses the history of Israel to warn the Corinthian church about the consequences for their actions. We can do the same in our discipleship using our own lives or the lives of other believers. As a father, I hope to teach my children to avoid some of the mistakes I have made in life. The things God has grown me through can be passed on in the course of discipleship (parenting or 'spiritual parenting'). Learn from history so we don't end up repeating it.

Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, glorify God this week!

Ethan

Colossians 3:16

Grace and peace,

Today I am taking a break from 1 Corinthians to write an entry on Colossians 3:16. If anyone asks me for a 'life-verse' or an especially meaningful verse that affects my life and ministry in a special way, this is the one I would pick (at least at this stage in my life). It is a verse that I have had memorized for a long time, but I am just now experiencing its richness.

I memorized it (within the passage 12-17) in the NIV. The ESV renders it very closely to the NIV although I believe the ESV captures the verse's essence more succinctly.

Colossians 3:16 (ESV)
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

The verse begins where we all must begin; God's Word. That is where He reveals His Person, His purpose, and His plan to us. Thus the importance of letting it dwell in us richly. We do this by study, meditation, memorization, and application. And as His 'implanted Word' (James 1:21) abides (John 15), lives and works (Heb 4:12) in us, through the power of Holy Spirit, we become more like Christ. Then, in our actions and our words we reflect more and more the mind of Christ (1 Cor 2:16).

Having the mind of Christ, we then can teach and admonish each other in all wisdom; His wisdom (1 Cor 2). Teaching (instructing) and admonishing (counseling, or warning in love) are integral parts of Paul's whole ministry focus; as we see in Colossians 1:28. "Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ." The same Greek word is in both of these verses as 'admonishing' and 'warning'. Both appeals start with God; His Person and His Word. Both stress the importance of teaching and admonishing in His wisdom. And both result in worship; presenting mature believers to Christ and singing in thankfulness.

The Word of Christ is to dwell in us as we teach and disciple as well as when we worship. Spirit and truth worship (John 4:23-24) must be grounded in the Word of God. Psalms (from the book of Psalms), hymns (song of praise to God), and spiritual songs (other expressions of song or poetry to God) must be richly infused with the Word of God and offered in a spirit of thankfulness.

If you ever need a 'nutshell' for the Christian life, Colossians 3:16 offers a starting point. God's Word dwelling in your heart, God's command to make disciples playing out in your life, and God's worship being poured out from your spirit.

May His Word dwell in you richly today,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 9

Grace and peace to you today,

Delving into 1 Corinthians 9, we find a discourse on the means and the motivation of ministry. The memory passage is

1 Corinthians 9:14, 22-23, 26-27 (ESV)
In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel.
²² To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. ²³ I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.
²⁶ So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. ²⁷ But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.

The outline theme is Correct Means and Motivation for the Gospel.

At the beginning of the chapter, Paul gives as concise but thorough apologetic for his own apostolic authority. The two main reasons he gives are seeing Jesus and having the fruit of his work, the Corinthian church, as a seal. They are the direct result of his ministry as an apostle.

Beginning in verse 4 he 'reclaims' his own personal rights and freedoms and sets up the argument for supporting those who work for the Gospel. In verse 7 he uses a soldier, a vineyard worker, and a shepherd as examples of workers who directly benefit from their work. His quotation from Deuteronomy 25:4 is applied here to people who are working in the harvest field. And again he uses examples; the plowman and the thresher. Each of these three (ox, plowman, and thresher) directly benefit from the work they do.

Verse 11 brings the point home; 'if we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you?'. And while verse 12 foreshadows Paul's later stance of giving up his rights, vv 13-14 conclude this first thought. He uses an example of those who work in a temple, which the Corinthians would have been very aware of (albeit pagan temples). These workers share in the offerings given at the temple. 'In the same way' (verse 14), 'the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the Gospel should get their living by the Gospel'.

'But', (with Paul, a 'but' or a 'therefore' are worth noting), 'I have made no use of these rights'. Even though he, and others, have the right to be supported by the church, Paul adamantly gives up these rights. His personal conviction was to support himself and not give anyone an excuse not to take his ministry seriously. He must be obedient to preach the Gospel no matter what, and although his boast is in the Lord (1:31) he wishes to retain his standing among men that he work hard not to be a burden to the church.

Verses 19-27 speak to Paul's motivation; the Gospel at any cost. Although he is free in Christ, he gives up this freedom for the sake of winning lost souls. All of his examples are summed up in the end of verse 22; 'I have become all things to all people that by all means I might save some'.

Why?

'I do it all for the sake of the Gospel'. He does seek a 'perishable wreath', he does not run aimlessly without direction, he does not train alone as one boxing the air, and he disciplines his body so that 'after preaching to others' he would not be disqualified himself. This word translated 'disqualified' also means 'unapproved'; being out of God's favor or in His discipline. Being 'sidelined' in the race will affect your running and the finish. His desire is to run hard, run straight, and never stop until he his 'crown of life' (James 1:12).

How does this affect my worship?
Psalm 4:5 calls us to 'offer right sacrifices'. The idea of being 'disqualified' or 'unapproved' in worship seems to be the idea of offering worship that is not pleasing or acceptable in His sight. Romans 12:1 commands that the worship of our selves must be 'holy and pleasing'. The prayer of Psalm 19:14 is that our words and meditations be 'acceptable' in His sight. If our walk (or run) with the Lord is filled with disqualifying behavior, we injure our witness and our walk. Paul's emphasis discipline in our bodies is so that our relationship with God remains pure, our evangelism will not be tainted, and our worship can continue to be acceptable to Him.

How does this affect my discipleship?
If one needs a (another) battle cry for discipleship, verse 23 provides it; 'I do it all for the sake of the Gospel'. I sacrifice my rights and freedoms. I train and discipline myself for the long haul. I keep my focus on the treasure in heaven, not on earth. And do all I can, 'by all means' to fulfill God's great commission. And 'woe to me' if I do not.

May you do all, today, for the sake of the Gospel,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 8

Grace to you, and peace in our Lord,

The next chapter in 1 Cor deals with a specific issue in the Corinthian church, but we will find many applications for our own lives.

The memory passage is:
1 Corinthians 8:1,8,12 (ESV)
Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." This "knowledge" puffs up, but love builds up.
Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do.
Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ.

The outline theme is Correct Liberty in Christ.

This theme is similar in title to Romans 14 (Righteous Liberty in Christ). 1 Cor 8 and Rom 14 deal with similar topics and come to very similar conclusions. Each has its own slant, but the main idea is the same, as we will see.

Verses 1-3 deal with the Cor church's perception of knowledge. In the context of the issue of food offered to idols, Paul agrees that 'all of us posses knowledge'. But knowledge alone builds up one's ego; contrasted with love which invests in true growth for one's self and for others. He continues by saying "if you think you really have it figured out, you don't. Your knowledge is woefully incomplete. But if you love God, then you will be known by God." This last phrase seems backwards at first glance; shouldn't it read 'if you love God you will know God'? But that's not what it says. Being known by God is infinitely more important than knowing anything else.

He follows in vv4-7 with an affirmation of basic doctrine; there is one true God. Because an idol has no real existence, the food offered to one is inconsequential to Christ-followers. People make up all kinds of 'gods' and 'lords'. But THE God is Creator and object of our praise, and THE Lord is our Sustainer and loving Master.
Even though we know this to be true, there are still those who have 'weak consciences' and are affected by that former association.

Firstly, what about us? Verse 8 summarizes our approach; Food is food; we are no worse or better off for eating it.

Secondly, what about the weak of conscience? Paul devotes the rest of this chapter to them. If someone who has an issues with certain foods sees us eating it, will they not be encouraged to eat, too? This could bring back issues from former idolatry or plunge them back into a lifestyle they associate with that idolatry. Verse 11 pulls no punches, "by your knowledge this weak brother in Christ is destroyed". The actions of the 'free' can directly affect the actions of the 'weak'. If we sin against them by harming their conscience, we sin against Christ Himself.

Therefore (Paul concludes), don't make food an issue. It's better us to abstain from food (meat in this case) completely rather than cause harm to a brother.

How does this affect my worship?
I love that affirmation of doctrine in verse 6; yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. What a beautiful and poetic description of God. The Father is the Creator and the One for whom we live. Jesus Christ is our Sustainer and the means by which we live. This echoes the end of Romans 11; for from Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things. While the simplest prayer and worship, if offered in spirit and truth, can be a sweet smelling offering to God, the more He reveals to us who He is the more fully we can worship His fullness. Psalm 7:17 says 'I will give to the Lord the praise due His righteousness'. May we daily seek to know more of Him and His righteousness.

How does this affect my discipleship?
This whole issue comes to bear when dealing with non or new believers. People have all sorts of baggage that they bring to the table. As a disciple-maker, it is essential that I am aware of any 'food issues' (alcohol, fatty foods, locations, associations) that might hinder growth or damage a conscience. And if a situation ever does come up, I need to be the one to concede my 'freedom' for the sake of the weaker brother. They may mature and grow out of their baggage, but it's not for me to yank them out. In the Lord's time.

May we walk this week in the hand of our Creator by the strength of our Sustainer,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 7

Grace to you, and peace,

Today we continue in our Chapter Memory Study of 1 Corinthians with chapter 7.

The memory passage for this chapter are;

1 Corinthians 7:1-2, 10-11, 32-33 (ESV)
¹ Now concerning the matters about which you wrote: "It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman." ² But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.
¹⁰ To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband ¹¹ (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.
³² I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord. ³³ But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife,

The outline theme for chapter 7 is Correct Marriage Relationships

The first 9 verses deal with the physical relationship of a man and woman. Paul teaches that abstinence is good, but because of the temptation to sexual immorality it is good for people to be married to have the correct context for sexual contact.
Spouses are not to withhold sexual relations from each other except for a time of prayer, and only for a limited time so that they do not open the door for temptation.
Again, in verses 6-9 he says that it is good to be single, but better to be married than full aflame with passion.

Next, Paul spends considerable time (10-24) on the marriage relationship. Neither believing spouse should seek a divorce; whether married to a believer or a non-believer. The benefits to a non-believing spouse who has a believing spouse is great. They are blessed by having someone who loves Christ, prays for the spouse and the family, and who loves the family the way the Christ does. Children also are blessed when there is at least one believing parent. If the unbelieving spouse leaves the marriage, there is no restrictions on the believing spouse to remarry if they choose (although Paul encourages 'each one to remain with God in whatever condition they are; 17, 20, 24, 26)

Verse 25 through verse 38 deal with the status of the unmarried, engaged, or virgin children. Paul starts by saying, again, that it is good to remain as you are for a time; married or unmarried. When persecution comes to us who believe, we must respond with full-hearted devotion to God. Those who are married can be divided in their devotion. When Paul says to 'live as though' you are unmarried it is not license to do whatever you wish and forsake your marital responsibility. Rather, keep your mind and your heart focused fully on pleasing God. We are to be anxious only about the things of the Lord and how to please the Lord.

Verses 36-38 have caused some confusion as to who the 'anyone' is. Many believe that the 'anyone' is the father of a virgin daughter, while others believe that the 'anyone' is a bridegroom. The principles are still very clear; if you can't keep your desires under control and disciplined, marry, for it is no sin. But those who can abstain are better off.

The last two verses deal with widow-hood. Widows are free to remarry, to a believer, if they wish. But Paul still offers that they might be happier not remarrying.

How does this affect my worship?
The principle that Paul states 4 times in this chapter rings true for me in my worship. No matter in what condition I am, my heart must remain steadfastly devoted to the Lord. Whether married or single, rich or poor, sick or well, persecuted or blessed; my heart's desire should be the things of the Lord and how to please the Lord.

How does this affect my discipleship?
I'm guessing that marriage issues will come up once or twice along my journey of discipleship. These principles give very clear guidance to people at any stage of the marriage relationship (or non-relationship if they remain single). Along with the goal of this study, to hide God's Word in my heart, is the goal of studying and remembering principles like these for when questions come up about this very topic. Discipleship may not always be neat and tidy; there may be times of digging through dirt and mud with someone in order to set them on the path of righteousness. I must be prepared.

May you remain, today, in the place God has called you,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 6

Grace to you, and peace in our Lord,

1 Corinthians 6 deals with two particular issues; how believers should resolve conflict and how believers should remain pure. The memory passage for chapter 6 is;

1 Corinthians 6:1, 9-10, 18-20 (ESV)
¹ When one of you has a grievance against another, does he dare go to law before the unrighteous instead of the saints?
⁹ Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor men who practice homosexuality, ¹⁰ nor thieves, nor the greedy, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.
¹⁸ Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. ¹⁹ Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, ²⁰ for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.

The outline theme is Correct Conflict Resolution and Purity.

The first main theme of 1 Cor 6 is the correct way to handle grievances between believers. Paul lays out a string of questions to challenge the approach that the Cor church was employing. It appears that believers were taking their matters of grievance to the secular courts instead of before the leaders of the church. Paul's challenge is based on the fact that the secular courts have no standing in the church, and that believers are better qualified to give guidance on issues between other believers. "...is no one among you wise enough to settle disputes between brothers..." is an indictment against the church's immaturity related to conflict resolution. Paul writes that if it escalates to the point of requiring the secular court to step in, both sides have already lost.

Paul is not condemning the secular courts altogether (Rom 13), but reminding the church of the correct roles it has to play in the conflict resolution of believers.

This section ends with a contrast of the unrighteous and the righteous. This 'list of sins' is followed by a powerful statement reinforcing the standing of the believer before God as one washed, sanctified and justified.

The second main theme in 1 Cor 6 is the purity of the believer. More specifically the sexual purity of the believer. Paul sharply contradicts the idea that our liberty in Christ and freedom from the eternal punishment of sin somehow condones sexually immoral behavior. "The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body" (13b). And because our bodies are 'members of Christ' we should never 'become one flesh' with a prostitute, or any other sexual partner outside of marriage. (15) This is directly contradictory to the institution and relationship God created for men and women. We become one with Christ in Spirit, and become one with a mate in flesh.

Vv 18-20 speak more to our status as believers. We have the Holy Spirit living in us, and are thus His temple. Sexual sins are sins against our own body, which is not even our own anymore since we were bought with the blood of Christ. What do we do? Flee from sexual immorality and glorify God in our bodies.

How does this affect my Worship?
As a worshiper of God, my goal is to give Him all glory and honor and praise. This can not be with just my words or my thoughts; it must be with my body and my actions. James seems to have a few things to say about a faith that does not show fruit. It's the same with worship that does not show fruit. If the 'fruit of my lips' is small, hollow, rotten, or diseased, how can I offer it to God as a sacrifice. A sacrifice must cost something. Costless worship is not our calling as spirit-and-truth worshipers. I am not my own, I was bought with a price, I must glorify God with all that I am.

How does this affect my discipleship?
I have been recently challenged with situations concerning grievances between brothers; and let me say that I don't think I handled them well. If there are two believers who have submitted to Christ in their lives and to the body of Christ in the local church then their disputes, if there would be any, should be addressed by the body of Christ in the local church. If there are Elders or spiritual leaders who have standing in the church, they should be the ones who address these grievances. In a properly functioning body that is committed to intentional disciplemaking and is seeking the unity of the body, 'family matters' should be dealt with in the family. This is a loose association with discipleship in some ways, but a direct result of my own discipleship journey as I encounter situations like this.


May you walk not as your own, but as His,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 5

Greetings in the Lord,

The memory passage for 1 Corinthians 5 is;

1 Corinthians 5:6-7, 11 (ESV)
⁶ Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? ⁷ Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed.
¹¹ But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.

The outline theme is Correct Discipline in the Church.

The specific issue of discipline that Paul deals with at the beginning of chapter 5 is sexual immorality (though he gets to others later). The Cor church was either ignoring or celebrating an act of sexual immorality that was forbidden in OT law and the Roman law of the time. The body of believers should mourn, not celebrate, and Paul passes judgment on the guilty one through this letter. He calls for the congregation to remove the guilty man and turn him 'over to Satan' as discipline for his actions. But while Satan may punish the flesh, the goal of the discipline is to bring the guilty one back to repentance or at least save his soul.

The warning that follows in vv6-7 speaks to the cancerous nature of sin in the body of Christ; just a little leaven (yeast, a metaphor of sinfulness) affects the whole lump (church). Paul calls for them to cleanse (some translate 'purge') the old leaven to continue to live up to their status as 'unleavened' in Christ. This metaphor was very tangible to this audience as they were approaching Passover and the Festival of the Unleavened Bread. This festival is a yearly reminder of the Passoverprecedingg the deliverance of Israel from Egypt, but Paul reminds them that Christ is THE Passover Lamb that was sacrificed once and for all. The 'old leaven' of the flesh includes malice and evil, but the 'unleavened bread' of those in Christ include sincerity and truth.

The first eight verses deal with the means of discipline while the final four verses clarify the scope of who should be disciplined. Clearly there is immorality in the world all around us, but we have no grounds to discipline them. Butsomeonee who 'bears the name of brother' (who is in and has submitted to the church) and yet continues in sin (sexual immorality, greed, idolatry, drunkenness, or swindling) should be removed from fellowship. They shouldn't even 'eat with such a one'.

As far as those outside the church who live in sin; God will judge them.

How does this affect my worship?
The five words in the middle of v7 challenge me. 'As you really are unleavened'. I stand before God as His adopted child because of the substitutionarysacrificee of Christ. He is my Passover Lamb. His blood was shed so that my soul might be saved. The challenge from Paul is that I walk in a manner that evidences my standing. I truly am forgiven and cleansed by the blood of the Lamb; live like it, walk like it, talk like it, and worship like it.

How does this affect my discipleship?
Jumping back to the first part of v7, we see the idea of 'cleansing out the old leaven'. The most affective way to get into someone's life and help them 'cleanse out the old leaven' is through a discipleship relationship. It is very difficult to sit across a table from someone and hide your heart. You may be able to hide in aworshipp service (although that shouldn't be) or a Sunday School class (which would be a bit harder) or a Small Group (if you really try), but it's hard to hide from the person sitting across that table asking you about more than sports scores and work. Healing and cleansing and growth happen in that context.

May your walk today be unleavened, as you really are,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 4

Grace to you, and peace,

Continuing in the first letter of Paul to the Corinthian church, we come to chapter 4. The memory passage for chapter 4 is;

1 Corinthians 4:1-2, 15-17 (ESV) ¹ This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. ² Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy. ¹⁵ For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. ¹⁶ I urge you, then, be imitators of me. ¹⁷ That is why I sent you Timothy, my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, to remind you of my ways in Christ, as I teach them everywhere in every church.

The outline theme is Correct Ministry of Christians.

This chapter begins with a very clear picture of Christ-followers; 'servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God' (4:1). This verse is key to understanding the correct position and role of Christ-followers. Humility is not having a low opinion of yourself, but a correct opinion of your self in relationship to God and others. Paul writes that apostles are 'servants' and 'stewards'. Not masters or owners, but ones who serve the Master and vessels who are used to obey and proclaim the message of the Owner. We apply this to ourselves through Paul's appeal in v16; 'I urge you, then, be imitators of me'. So we are to faithfully serve our Lord Jesus Christ and carry His message on earth until He returns. Paul does include a qualification for stewards; that they be trustworthy (1:2).

Verses 3-6 touch on the issue of proper judgment of yourselves and others. Paul argues that human judgment of you does not matter; even your own judgment of you. You may be completely innocent in your own eyes but the Lord is the only true Judge. So if we can't even judge ourselves, we should not spend time judging others. The Lord will judge when He comes (1:5) and nothing is hidden from His sight (Heb 4:13). Again in humility, Paul reminds them that this same standard applies to himself and Apollos; the leaders as well as the flock.

In the following verses, 7-13, Paul deals directly with the misguided priorities and aspirations of the Corinthian church. He reminds them that everything they have has been given to them, even though they might try to take credit for some of it. If God's plan were for them all to become rich and powerful, Paul would love to be rich and powerful with them. But he quickly reminds them of the path of the cross. Not wisdom, strength, and honor in the worlds eyes, but foolishness, weakness and disrepute. Paul says that they are hungry, thirsty, poorly dressed, roughly treated, homeless; we work hard with our hands and yet are reviled, persecuted, slandered and called scum and garbage. Preaching Christ crucified is a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles (1:23); they do not understand and they do not accept the message or the messengers. THIS is the path of the cross; not glory and honor and riches on this earth.

Even with these harsh words and rebukes, Paul reminds them that his love for them is fatherly. It is for their own good that he admonishes them.

The memory passage gives us an interesting insight into Paul's view of ministry. The focus here is very familial. They have guides in Christ, but not many fathers in Christ. Paul led them to the Lord and taught them as children with spiritual milk (3:2). He is their 'father' in the faith (not confused at all with their Heavenly Father) through the Gospel. So he sent Timothy, another of his children in the Lord, to teach and remind them of Paul's ways in Christ; both his doctrine and behavior. Paul's teaching is not fickle or subjective, but true across the board in every place he lives and preaches. The same expectations apply to all churches and all believers, not just the Corinthians.

If people in the church were misbehaving because they thought Paul would never return, he reminds them that it is his desire to return if the Lord wills. And when he does, he will not rely on the power of his words, but on the power of God working through Him. As their father in Christ, he asks if they desire gentleness or discipline when he returns.

How does this affect my worship?
Worship leaders and worship pastors have a unique role in the 'stewardship of the mysteries of God'. We lead the people of God in praise and worship of God through song and expression. This is a powerful aspect of our being that can be easily manipulated or misdirected. When a worship service is about the music or the 'feeling' or the quality of the band it robs the glory from God and diminishes the mystery. I'm challenged today to make our worship More of Him and less of us. To be a trustworthy steward of God's mystery and a faithful servant of Christ, a worship leader must be subject to the work of Holy Spirit in preparation, rehearsal and every moment of leading the congregation. Never lose the wonder.

How does this affect my discipleship?
I have been graciously privileged to become someone's 'father in Christ' as well as being many peoples' 'guide in Christ' (4:15). Paul says that sometimes you plant and sometimes you water (3:6) but it is always God who gives the growth. As disciplemakers, sometimes you take a newly planted seed and nurture it; sometimes you must start with a field and plant the seeds yourself; and other times you may simply water an established plant for a while until it is prepared to produce on it's own. Depending on the people God places in your life, each aspect of discipleship may come up as you seek to be obedient to God. But always remember that God is the one who gives the growth, in you and the disciple, and to be faithful in whatever role He may have for you. He then, is the one who will reward you for your labor in His kingdom.

God's grace and peace to you today,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 3

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Hello again, friends. The Chapter Memory Study continues this week in 1 Cor 3. As I have gone through this study I have often felt the need to 'brush up' on chapters that I've already studied. I focus on remembering the memory passages, but sometimes miss or forget the rest of the text. So at night I have started to read through the book that I am studying. But I read one chapter per night in stead of one chapter per week. I haven't done the math, but I should read through the 16 chapters of 1 Cor a few times before my study in 1 Cor is done. I think this might help me keep it all in context better.

The memory passage for 1 Cor 3 is
1 Corinthians 3:11-15 (ESV)
¹¹ For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. ¹² Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— ¹³ each one's work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. ¹⁴ If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. ¹⁵ If anyone's work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire.

The outline theme for this chapter is Correct Ministry in the Church.

Paul addresses the immaturity of the believers in the frist section. He writes that he can't even address them as spiritual people because of their actions. While it appears that they are justified by faith, they seem to still be walking in the flesh. One issue is their high and false opinion of their leaders as we saw also in chapter 1. Some people aligned themselves with Paul and some with Apollos. Paul responds in several ways; we are human, we are servants, we are fellow workers. He gives the rightful place of the one who is served, the one who gives growth, and the one who rewards the workers to God and God only.

In verse 10 he begins an extended metaphor of a building. The foundation is and must always be Jesus Christ. Anyone who builds on that foundation (speaking of human ministers) will be be tested by the Lord. While the interpretations of the six building materials in verse12 vary significantly, I take the fairly straight-forward approach. Because Paul mentions 'work' in verses 13, 14, and 15, I interpret the building materials in verse 12 to be the quality of the works that are built by those who are ministers of Christ. If the work survives the fire that will test it on 'the Day', the worker will be rewarded. If the work is burned up, the worker will not be lost to hell, but there will be no eternal reward in heaven.

From the building in 10-15, Paul switches to the 'temple' in vv 16-17. We are God's temple because He dwells in us. Verse 17 is a strong warning against those who seek to destroy the children of God.

Finally in verses 18-22 he addresses the ministers. "Don't rest in your own wisdom or cleverness; the wisdom of this age is foolishness to God. Become a fool for Christ and rest in the wisdom from the Spirit (2:13) and the mind of Christ." (2:16). He ends with a different approach to the quote he gave in 1:31, 'Don't boast in men, because everything is God's'.

How does this affect my worship?
Before the time of Christ on this earth, anyone who wanted to worship God went to the tabernacle or the temple. But as Jesus clearly taught in John 4, we don't have to worship in any particular place anymore because God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). The short but profound contents of verse 16 shed a little different light on it; not only is God everywhere, but He is IN us. We are now His temple. This thought should transform my worship. As I seek to be a 'living sacrifice' who is acceptable and pleasing to God (Rom 12:1), I must remember that He dwells in me and is constantly working to make my worship more acceptable and more pleasing. In one sense that is comforting; in another sense it is humbling.

How does this affect my discipleship?
This memory passage speaks directly to anyone seeking to obey the command of God and serve Him on this earth. Your work, including your discipleship, will be tested on 'the Day'. If it is built with quality, precious, costly work it will not only survive but be rewarded. If it is built with empty, cheap, or worldly work it will not survive the test of fire. As I build into someone's life, on the foundation of Christ, I must always remember to keep my focus on the eternal and not the worldly. It's not about me. It's about Him. More of Him, less of me.

May you build on the foundation of Christ as you walk with Him today,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 2

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,

While 1 Corinthians has a much different feel than Romans, I'm still having just as much trouble keeping the memory selections down to manageable numbers. The barometer I have set up for myself is the 'brain fry' factor; as long as they keep sticking in my head and hiding in my heart, I'll keep putting them in. I don't know how many times I've said, 'Ooo, that's a good one, I'll have to memorize that one....but this one's really good, too.' I try not to 'value' certain words of Scripture more than others. In order to fulfill my current goal in this Chapter Memory Study, I do make certain judgments about verses. Feel free to disagree and chose your own. As we study this chapter, we are reminded that Holy Spirit helps us all 'understand the things freely given us by God'(12) and it's not always the same thing at the same time.

That said, the memory section for chapter 2 is
1 Corinthians 2:4-5, 12-13, 16 (ESV)
⁴ and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, ⁵ that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
¹² Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God. ¹³ And we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual.
¹⁶ "For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?" But we have the mind of Christ.

The outline theme is Correct Wisdom from the Spirit

While the theme of chapter 1 is Christ as the center, chapter 2 deals with the Spirit as the source. It was easy for the Corinthian church (and us today) to be swayed by the 'lofty speech and wisdom' of certain magnetic personalities. Paul contradicts this attraction by bringing their attention back to THE source of wisdom; Holy Spirit. Verses 1-5 outline the argument; Paul came to them with the single message of Christ crucified. He testified in weakness, fear, and trembling without 'plausible words of wisdom', but filled with the power of Holy Spirit. (v4) Not that Paul's, or our, message was/should be void of reason and clarity, but by focusing on the content and not the delivery their faith would rest on the power of God, not the wisdom of man.
Wisdom is a part of our message, but not the wisdom of this age(v6). The wisdom that comes from the Spirit is secret and hidden from the world and only revealed to us through the work of Holy Spirit. (vv6-11)

As Christ-followers we have received the Holy Spirit, not the spirit of the world. He helps us understand the things from God and impart His wisdom to each other (12-13). This wisdom is lost on the lost, but as fellow members in the body of Christ, we have the mind of Christ (16).

The correct wisdom for the church to seek and impart comes only from the Holy Spirit. Resting on the wisdom of man robs us of sharing in the power of God.

How does this affect my worship?
The attitude of this chapter challenges my approach to worship. When selecting, or writing, worship songs for worship services, our natural tendency is to go with the latest sound or fad. Sometimes it seems that we make things much more complicated than they need to be. In order to have spirit-and-truth worship, the music needs to resonate with the 'heart song' of the worshiper. This may be a song with 3 chords and a simple melody. The vehicle of the music is important, but not as important as the message. If we focus our worship on the single goal of glorifying God through Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit, what comes out should be our heart song. I believe it's ok to do difficult and challenging music, but not at the expense of true worship.

How does this affect my discipleship?
Verse 13 hits me right between my discipleship eyes; "and we impart this in words not taught by human wisdom but taught by the Spirit, interpreting spiritual truths to those who are spiritual". If we let our flesh take over, discipleship can easily turn into a 'here's how much I know and I'll prove it to you' session. The respect and admiration oozing from a hungry disciple is not meant to be kept to the disciple-maker. All you have to remember is that if the Spirit didn't reveal it to me, I couldn't impart it to you. And however difficult it is for me to grasp, as believers we have the mind of Christ. Without 'the same mind' (1:10), unity is impossible.

May you trust in, walk in, and dwell in the mind of Christ,

Ethan

1 Corinthians 1

Grace and peace to you in Christ Jesus our Lord,

Having completed the Chapter Memory Study in Romans, we move on into 1 Corinthians. For this study (and the following one in 2 Corinthians) I will most likely use the abbreviation 'Cor' for Corinthians. The spell check will be warned, but I want to warn you also.

The theme for 1 Corinthians is 'The Correction of the Church'. Paul spends considerable time addressing specific doctrinal and practical issues in the Corinthian church.

The memory verses for this chapter are
1 Corinthians 1:10, 23-24, 30-31 (ESV) 10I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment. ²³ but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, ²⁴ but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. ³⁰ He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom and our righteousness and sanctification and redemption. ³¹ Therefore, as it is written, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."

The outline theme is the Correct Centrality of Christ.
The first 9 verses of this letter contain the name of Christ nine times. Paul is clearly setting the stage for the centrality of Christ in all of his admonishions. But before he begins his teaching, he starts with encouragement; 'God is faithful' and has called you 'into the fellowship of his Son'. (v9).

Paul's appeal in verse 10 seems to be the key to this chapter; for them to 'agree' and have 'no divisions' but to be 'united in the same mind and the same judgment'. This is not just any mind or judgment, but the mind and judgment of Christ. His call is for the peace of Christ to rule in their hearts, since as members of one body they are called to peace (Col 3:15). The following verses shed light on some of the disruption. People were becoming too focused on individual people and not on Christ. His straight-forward (and slightly sarcastic) response reads 'Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in the name of Paul?'(v13). Sometimes things get lost in the translation; the seriousness of this response did not.

Paul was not sent to baptize as his primary ministry (while he still baptized some) but to preach the gospel. Clearly he was trying to avoid the misguided attention the Corinthians were giving him and others. Paul would never want someone saying 'I was baptized by THE Paul' to be their primary focus above following and obeying Christ.

Verses 17-18 are powerful words concerning the message of the cross of Christ. The focus should never be on eloquence or cleverness lest 'the cross be emptied of its power'. This Word of the cross is foolishness 'for those who are perishing' but 'the power of God' to those who are saved.

Then more of the mystery of Christ in vv 19-21. The wisdom of the world is foolish, and God has used what is foolish in the eyes of the world to save those who believe.

"But we preach Christ crucified" defines the message. It is 'a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called' it is 'the power of God and the wisdom of God'. (23-24)

And just to make sure that we don't get the idea that our salvation has anything to do with us, Paul writes vv25-31. God chose the foolish, the weak, and the low to shame the wise, the strong and the prominent so that 'no human being might boast in the presence of God'.

God is the source of our life in Christ Jesus, and God has made Him our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. So if you boast, boast in the Lord. (30-31).

How does this affect my worship?
Verse 31 quotes Jeremiah 9:24 which has always challenged my worship;
Jeremiah 9:24 (ESV)
but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord."
Anytime you read about the Lord delighting in something, pay attention. Our offering of worship must be acceptable and pleasing to God. Things He says that delight Him fall into that category. In this case, that we understand Him and know Him. In the case of 1 Cor 1, that we know and understand that He is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption. That's enough to fill our praises all the days of our lives.

How does this affect my discipleship?
I was challenged by vv11-16. Even in the body of Christ we fall into the trap of 'name-dropping'; "I studied with A.B. Smartypants" or "I was discipled by K.M. Spiritualgiant". Finding prominence or importance in anything or anyone besides Christ is sin. While God has gifted individuals to teach and train us, the glory belongs to God. Same for when we turn around to teach and train others; all the glory to God. Again, He is our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption; the source, means, strength and theme of our discipleship.

May you boast in the Lord and Him alone,

Ethan

Romans Reflections

Grace and peace to you,

As I have come to the end of this experiment, I find that there are many things to reflect upon. The study itself has grown me and challenged me from start to finish. The format seems to resonate with my learning style and need for deadlines. The commitment to memory passages directly tied to the study has been invaluable and essential. It takes time, effort, brain-power, and persistence...but He has blessed my heart with His Word at every turn and in so many ways. The trick will be sustaining these passages as I move on in the study. With previous memory verses, the longer I keep them fresh in my mind, the more readily they seem to come back.

A lot has changed since my first entry. The main purpose has remained; to study God's Word chapter by chapter and memorize key passages from each chapter in order to begin a framework for hiding God's Word in my heart. The memory passages range from 3-7 verses (in spite of my desire to keep it to 2-3) and I have had to go back and insert more in order to make the picture of each chapter more complete.

The outline is as follows:

Romans

“The Righteousness of God”

1. Righteousness in the Gospel

2. Righteous Judgment of God

3. Righteous Justification by Grace

4. Righteous Faith of Abraham

5. Righteousness Free Gift of Grace

6. Righteousness Sets us Free

7. Righteous Obedience in the Spirit

8. Righteous Walk in the Spirit

9. Righteous Sovereignty of God

10. Righteous Word of Faith

11. Righteous Restoration of Israel

12. Righteous Sacrifice of Life and Love

13. Righteous Submission

14. Righteous Liberty in Christ

15. Righteous Ministry of Hope

16. Righteous Obedience of Faith

The righteousness of God is the main theme of Romans; what it is, what it isn't, why we must attain it, the only way we can attain it, and how we must walk in it.
The passage that best summarizes the main theme of Romans, and the Gospel for that matter, is Romans 3:20-24 (the memory passage for chapter 3)

Romans 3:20-24 (ESV)
²⁰ For by works of the law no human being will be justified in his sight, since through the law comes knowledge of sin. ²¹ But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it— ²² the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction: ²³ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, ²⁴ and are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,

The Righteousness of God can not be obtained through the law, but only through faith in Jesus Christ. No human has it, every human needs it to have eternal life in heaven, and only through the gracious free gift of Christ can we get it.

So if the main theme of Romans is the Righteousness of God, the 'obedience of faith' would be a sub-theme. This phrase appears in Romans 1:5 and 16:26; the beginning and the end. Paul's calling as an apostle is linked to 'bringing about the obedience of faith' (1:5). But in 16:26, 'to bring about the obedience of faith' is the 'command of the eternal God'.

Clearly, the willful obedience of the believer to the eternal God who justifies us by His grace through faith is our response to His righteousness.

May you walk in the obedience of faith to our righteous, Eternal God,

Ethan

Romans 16

Grace and peace to you all,

Well, we have arrived at the end of Romans. I trust that everything from 1:1 to 16:27 has been as challenging to you as it has been to me. My personal walk, my family, and my ministry have been affected deeply by my study in Romans. Thank the Lord for His Word and It's power to change lives.

The memory passage for Romans 16 is:
Romans 16:17-18, 25-27 (ESV)
¹⁷ I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. ¹⁸ For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naive.
²⁵ Now to him who is able to strengthen you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery that was kept secret for long ages ²⁶ but has now been disclosed and through the prophetic writings has been made known to all nations, according to the command of the eternal God, to bring about the obedience of faith— ²⁷ to the only wise God be glory forevermore through Jesus Christ! Amen.

The outline theme for Romans 16 is Righteous Obedience of Faith.

This chapter contains the longest list of personal greetings in any of Paul's writings. He addresses 26 people by name and refers to others. After reading these 16 verses, I can't help but see the deep, personal connections Paul had with the church in Rome. He was not just an itinerate evangelist passing through town, but a true pastor at heart. Although Paul's ministry was not, could not be, the long-term shepherding of an individual flock, his heart still beat with prayers for those he loved in all the churches he visited.

Priscila and Aquila are the only ones mentioned in this list that are certainly named elsewhere in the New Testament. This couple clearly had a profound impact on the life andministryy of Paul. The first person mentioned, Pheobe, is described as a sister, servant, and patron. In some future study I would like to explore the ministry of Pheobe and her example for all women.

After the list of personal greetings, Paul couldn't resist just one more teaching point. 17-20 contain a last warning and encouragement. Watch out for trouble-makers who 'cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine you have been taught'. These people are self-seeking and deceive the weak-hearted. He acknowledges their obedience and encourages them to continue to be wise in good, innocent in evil, and steadfast in the certain victory of God over Satan.

Paul then sends greeting to the believers in Rome from those who are with him in Corinth. I'm struck by the way he describes Timothy as 'my fellow worker'. Not 'my protege' or 'student' or 'employee', but simply 'my fellow worker'. A shining example of 'not thinking more highly of yourself than you ought' (12:3).

The Romans benediction is filled with all the doctrine and mystery of the letter. God is able to strengthen you by the gospel of Jesus Christ, according to the mystery that is now revealed and according to the verycommandd of God 'to bring about the obedience of faith'. If the righteousness of God is the main theme of Romans, the obedience of faith is the sub-theme.

How does this affect my worship?
I can only imagine the worship that took place in these fellowships. The church appears so interlocked and connected. While they were not without controversy or trouble-makers, they seemed united with one voice in worship (15:6). I wonder what the worship in a body of believers who are united by more than just convenience or proximity looks like? A true unified voice in accord with Christ Jesus proclaiming His worthiness, praising His righteous name, and worshiping in the beauty of His holiness. Come quickly, Lord Jesus.

How does this affect my discipleship?
How do we attain connectedness and unity? How do we 'let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, since as members of one body we are called to peace'? (Col 3:15) I believe that if the church is filled with a network of discipleship-minded people who have eyes for disciple-making, are equipped with tools for disciple-making, and are actively seeking disciple-making we can get closer. But it starts with obedience to His command and adherence to His Gospel. And we can rest in knowing that He will be with us always, 'to the end of the age'.

To the only wise God be glory forevermore in Christ Jesus, Amen.

Ethan

Romans 15

Grace and peace,

As we approach the end of Romans we see that Paul includes many more personal details and greetings. Chapter 15 contains some final words of instruction and warning along with his travel plans.

The memory passage for chapter 15 is;
Romans 15:4-6, 13 (ESV)
⁴ For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope. ⁵ May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, ⁶ that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. ¹³ May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.

The outline theme is Righteous Ministry of Hope

This chapter begins by continuing the theme of chapter 14; care for and bear with the weak unselfishly as Christ loved us unselfishly. The memory passage outlines the ministry of hope. First, the Scriptures were written for our instruction, for our endurance, and for our encouragement. And through the Scripture we can have the assurance of hope. Then Paul follows with one of his blessings; that the God of the Scriptures would help us live in harmony with Christ Jesus and each other. The result will be unified worship of God.

Therefore (always a clue that something is coming) 'welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God'. We have studied how Christ 'welcomed' us while we were weak and ungoldly (5:6), sinners (5:8), and enemies (5:10). Not only did He welcome us, but even though we were completely unworthy, He DIED for us. We are to follow His example and welcome each other in His name.

And for all of us non-Jews, vv8-12 summarize the great mercy and grace of God towards us so that we might have hope. Which leads to the second half of the memory passage; that through the God of all joy and peace we may have hope by the power of Holy Spirit.

Paul encourages and instructs the Roman church with a confirmation of their growth and godliness followed by a reminder that he sometimes writes boldly to address or correct issues in the church. But his goal is always the same; to minister to the Gentiles so that their offering might be acceptable and sanctified by the Holy Spirit. The only boast Paul has about his ministry is that which Christ has accomplished in word and deed and through the power of Holy Spirit. Echoing 1 Corinthians 1:31; "let him who boasts boast in...the Lord"

Paul concludes this chapter with a mission statement and some travel plans. He states his commitment to take the Gospel to where it has not been preached and tells the church that he hopes to spend time with them before he goes to Spain.

Paul's appeal for prayer in v30 is very Trinitarian; pray by Jesus and the love of the Spirit to God. He continues the theme of 11:36; "from Him, through Him, and to Him are all things". The blessing peace at the end of this chapter continues the theme of the chapter (from v13) that they be filled with all joy and peace in believing so that they may abound in hope.

How does this affect my worship? Verses 5-6 contain a few phrases that have musical roots; 'live in harmony', 'in accord with Christ Jesus', 'with one voice glorify God'. If there is to be unity and harmony in the church, it must start with the grace of God and the Word of God. God's Word is for our instruction, endurance and encouragement, and the God of the Scriptures can grant us to live in harmony, one accord, and unified worship. Writing to 'God's chosen people' in Colossians 3, Paul emphasizes the centrality of the Word of God in instruction and worship. Colossians 3:16 (ESV) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

How does this affect my discipleship? Discipleship and 'pleasing ourselves' do not go hand in hand. Christ's example was not pleasing Himself, but taking our sins on Himself and dying for us. Part of discipleship is exactly what is written in vv1-3; bear with the weak, do not please ourselves, build up your neighbor, follow the example of Christ. But it combines with the very purpose of God's Word; to instruct us (toward hope), give us endurance (toward hope), and encourage us (toward hope). Our ministry of discipleship should always be underpinned with this ministry of hope in Christ.

May the God of peace be with you all,

Ethan

Romans 14

Grace and peace,

As we get into Romans 14, the memory passages are:

Romans 14:1-2, 6,17,20 (ESV)
¹ As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. ² One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.
6The one who observes the day, observes it in honor of the Lord. The one who eats, eats in honor of the Lord, since he gives thanks to God, while the one who abstains, abstains in honor of the Lord and gives thanks to God. 17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 20Do not, for the sake of food, destroy the work of God. Everything is indeed clean, but it is wrong for anyone to make another stumble by what he eats.

The outline theme is Righteous Liberty in Christ.

In chapter 14, Paul tackles issues concerning 'one who is weak in faith'. Basically, a believer and follower of Christ who holds themselves to dietary or ceremonial rules. These could be carried over from Judaism or other previous convictions, and are not 'unclean in themselves' (14).

Paul begins with a warning, 'Welcome those who are weak in faith, but not to argue with them about their scruples; to try to make them more like you'. Within the body there may be people who only 'eat vegetables' (2) because of some conviction. We don't know why Paul chose vegetables in this case, but the point is that a Christ-follower feels compelled to abstain from meat and those who are 'free' to eat anything must not judge or look down upon them. The reason is just; 'God has welcomed him' (3). Neither party (the weak in faith or the strong) are allowed to judge or despise the other. For "who are you to pass judgment" on a fellow servant of the Lord? (4). Verse 5 changes from food to observance of special days. Some people put more importance on certain days than others do.

Verse 6 is key; if you observe a day, honor the Lord; if you eat, honor the Lord and give thanks; if you abstain, honor the Lord and give thanks. Whatever you do, always, honor the Lord.

Verses 7-11 remind us of our standing in Christ. None of us live or die to ourselves; we live and die to the One who lived and died for us. And it is not our place to pass judgment on each other in the body. For we will all stand before God, at the judgment seat, and be judged for what we have done in Him. We will each 'give an account of [ourselves] to God'.

The alternative to judgment and condescension in the body is this; 'walk in love' (15). Don't pass judgment, decide not to make a brother stumble by what he thinks is unclean, and do not let eating grieve your brother. He end this passage with a troubling, challenging statement; "By what you eat, do not destroy the one for whom Christ died' (15). "Destroy" here is the same word used in 1 Corinthians 8:10-12. Its definition contains harsh language of eternal destruction and consequence. This is difficult to understand fully, but the message is clear; your actions affect people, BE CAREFUL!!!

Verse 17 focuses us back on the main issue; "For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit".

If you serve Christ, you are acceptable to God and approved by men (18). In Christ, we should pursue peace and mutual edification. In our obedience to God we should not hinder or destroy His work by imposing our conviction about eating or abstaining on others in the body. 'Destroy' in verse 20 is more the idea of dissolving or subverting. Peace and unity are the calling of the body of Christ. Legalistic impositions challenge the work of unity.

The conditions are that everything must be done to honor Him, and done in obedience to Him. For one must have full faith in what he eats or abstains from. No rationalization of man stands; it must be under conviction from God.

How does this affect my worship?
Verses 6 is a timely reminder of 'whole-life' worship of God. While acts of worship must be intentional and purposed, our whole life is to honor Him. Whether we observe a special day or not, whether we hold to dietary scruples or not, we are always to honor the Lord and give Him thanks.

How does this affect my discipleship?
I was convicted in this study by verses 10 and 12. I don't think enough about standing before God at the judgment seat. This is different than the judgment of my soul between eternal blessedness and punishment (for that is secure, as I am 'hidden with Christ in God' Col 3:3). This is the seat that all Christ-followers will stand before and be judged for our service and obedience. We will 'give an account' of ourselves before God. While my commitment to follow Him and make disciples is out of love and obedience, I must never forget that I will give an account for my faithfulness and how I walk. We must always strive to honor Him, obey Him, and worship Him fully...to the end of the age.

May you walk in love toward your brothers and sisters,

Ethan