Tuesday, April 5, 2011

"In Conclusion"

1 Corinthians 16

When a speech is given, the “in conclusion” or “in closing” remarks are generally a summary of the speech. Chapter 16 is similar in that regard that it is a summary of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians.

Paul wraps up by giving and encouragement to the Gentiles (non-Jews) who make up the Corinthian church to prepare the gift for Jerusalem. It is not only about bringing relief to the church in Jerusalem but also about making sure that the church is unified, born again Jew and Gentile, Greek and Middle Easterner, and rich and poor that there would be no division among the early church. It is very important that we not allow divisions among Christians. Are there things we will disagree about absolutely, our politics can very, our traditions will be different, and our view of how best to love people may be completely opposite but we are still one body of believers focused on the purpose of sharing Jesus’ love, grace and mercy toward all mankind.

“Let all be done with love”, that is a mouthful. It is the hallmark and life sign of a true Christian. We can not hate, have bigotry, fear, anxiety and consider ourselves mature in the faith, love must be our banner. I know that that is easier said than done, believe me I am very aware of the struggle of always loving, never being fearful or anxious, always living firm in the faith. As we grow and mature if we love God, He will work with us to cause us to mature and live in peace, love, hope, and joy. It is a battle; one when we win, our lives dramatic change.

Never look at anything you do for the Lord as being unimportant. In verse 17 Paul gives praise and thanksgiving to three men who delivered the mail for him. It was their faithfulness to a seemingly simple but important task that gave them great honor. Their names will go down in history forever because they were faithful to simple task, Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus. Anything the Lord or His people ask you to do, if done with a right heart honors the Lord. Never look down on any task you do in or for your church, your family, or the people of God in general, whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord and He gets glory and you receive blessings.

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