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 - April 8, 2000
Simplicity in Christ #4
After being attacked by Herodians, Pharisees, and Saducees, Jesus answer was simple "you are mistaken because you don't know the scriptures, nor the power of God" (Mat 22:29). Complexity comes from the fall of man -- sin, evil. Jesus' approach to scripture . The Word is simple and liberates us from the complexities of life. (1) Jesus saw God as His Father and provider (Mat 6:25-33), therefore commands we "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness". The way to keep life simple is to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ. Salvation is simple. You cannot serve God and "money" at the same time (Mat 6:24); you have to leave your provision in His hands. The only way to serve God is to actively seek His will by faith (Mat 6:10). Money enslaves us and keeps us in the realm of anxiety. The God of the universe has the power to hear and answer our prayers (Mat 7:7-12). Disobedience disqualifies any prayer. Effective prayer is persistent (Luk 18:1-8). Knock means to be insistent. When we're not knocking on His door, He's knocking on ours. An answer is always certain (Mat 7:8). When we seek, we need to add looking for guidance from His Word.
Scripture References: Matthew 7:7-12, Matthew 6:10, Matthew 6:24, Matthew 6:25-33, Matthew 22:29, Matthew 7:8, Luke 18:1-8
From Series: "2018 AYC Ladies Classes"
Nan Cunningham spoke to the ladies at the 2018 AYC Camp.