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
Gene Cunningham - June 7, 2010
Courage for Conflict
Stir up means to bring a fire to full flame (2Ti 1:6). Our mission is related to our gift. Uncertainty is one cause of fear (2Ti 1:7). Courage must overcome fear. 1st Timothy theme is "Fight the good fight of faith". 2nd Timothy theme "The good soldier". The internal battle (1Jo 2:15) is not the external battle (Eph 6:11-18). Paul was a great warrior; sufferings to him were a gift from God (Phi 1:29-30). Paul became a soldier by attitude and action -- lose everything for Christ (Phi 3:7-9). We have to chose to be powered by the Spirit of God (Phi 3:10-11). Paul practiced leaning on Christ (Phi 4:10-13). There's a process: 1) Learn (Phi 4:11); 2) "know how" result is result of application; 3) "Can do" (Phi 4:13). Orient to the battlefield, understand to conditions, but realize it has to be focused on Christ (2Ti 2:8, 2Ti 2:12).
Scripture References: Philippians 3:7-9, Philippians 1:29-30, Ephesians 6:11-18, Philippians 4:13, John 2:15, Philippians 4:11, Philippians 4:10-13, Philippians 3:10-11
From Series: "Arkansas Youth Camp 2010 - Courage in Conflict"
Given at Arkansas Youth Camp 2010