This study was presented in the August 2013 Bible conference in Southern California.Though Corinth was a “problem church” for Paul, how thankful we ought to be for them, for without their problems and questions, we would not have the answers and guidance provided in this wonderful letter. As with all the epistles, the challenge is to lay hold of the character of Christ. We are to be “transformed by the renewing of [our] minds” (Rom 12:2), and to “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus” (Phi 2:5).
Key verses for this study:
- “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” 1Co 2:2 and
- “Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you are truly unleavened. For indeed Christ, our Passover, was sacrificed for us.” 1Co 5:7
1st Corinthians – California 2013
Gene Cunningham - May 23, 2000
Living Sacrifice 06
We like Israel have the provisions but need to take advantage of them (1Co 10:1-5, 1Co 10:14-17). During communion we eat and drink blessing or cursing. There's always a remnant of believers (Rom 11:5). There must be a sense of destiny, a sense of urgency, and tenacity or endurance. Paul always wanted to go to Rome, but he went as a prisoner (Phi 1:12). In Rom 12:1 the word "brethren" indicates the potential for unique standing in eternity. Membership in a royal family has distinction as does spiritual heritage (Gal 3:9). Paul appeals to our standing -- what we are should effect our action (Rom 5:1-2, John 3:36). The baptism of the Spirit puts us into union with Christ and makes us brethren (1Pe 3:18, 1Co 12:13-15). In the race to be at the top, Paul had been more zealous than Jewish peers. God thinks of it as crap (Phi 3:8, Isa 64:6).
Scripture References: Philippians 3:8, John 3:36, Romans 5:1-2, Galatians 3:9, Romans 12:1, Philippians 1:12, Isaiah 64:6, Romans 11:5
From Series: "Living Sacrifice (1995)"
Romans 12 and specifically Rom 12:1-2 is a pivot point between the doctrinal section and application of the book. This series methodically uses this passage to outline aspects or doctrines of the christian life -- God's provision and our prospect. Our lives can be acceptable to God if we progress on the path He intends. Living Sacrifice presents 12 doctrines: (1) redeeming time; (2) standing (positional truth); (3) self-presentation - availability; (4) approval; (5) service; (6) provision; (7) spiritual warfare; (8) conformity; (9) spiritual advance; (10) renewal; (11) divine guidance; (12) abundant life.