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 - June 9, 2000
Life of Moses #8
The first five plaques judged Egypt's idols; the 2nd five were personal. Moses is being transformed (spiritual growth). They show the increasing hardening of Pharaoh's heart (he hardening his own heart). Judicial hardening (Exo 9:8-12, Rom 2:4). God had been good to Egypt; that should lead us to repentance. The gifts from God are to point us to Him -- evidence of His character (Act 14:17, Act 17:27, Jam 1:17). God has put eternity in man's heart (Ecc 3:11). Visible creation has evidence of God (Rom 1:18-20); when men reject God, they loose His blessings. Boils and hail - the sixth plague also in tribulation (Rev 16:1-21). God's purpose for Pharaoh is His Glory (Exo 9:13-17, Rom 9:17, Isa 43:7, Psa 76:10). God is able to draw a line between His people and Satan's (Exo 9:18-26). Pharaoh sins more with more plagues(Exo 9:27-35, 1Th 5:9). Men seek death because of the locust plague during the tribulation (Rev 10:1-29). Moses now calls the shots in Egypt; he has grown into the man and leader God intended.
Scripture References: Exodus 9:27-35, Exodus 9:8-12, Romans 1:18-20, Exodus 9:18-26, Ecclesiastes 3:11, Psalms 76:10, James 1:17, Isaiah 43:7, Acts 17:27, Romans 9:17, Acts 14:17, Exodus 9:13-17, Revelation 10:1-29, Romans 2:4, Revelation 16:1-21
From Series: "Life of Moses"
After 40 years in the Egyptian palace then 40 years in the desert then 40 years leading Israel to their land Moses' life can actually teach us about living in the time we live.