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 - February 21, 2000
The Amazing Race 1
When we begin to understand the majesty of the universe, we get an inkling of the majesty of His plan for us (Job 38:1-41). Suffering, in God's plan, has the purpose of developing endurance through new wisdom, new joy, new faith -- the crown of life (Jam 1:1-27). Job 1:19 is the outline of James. James is also a commentary on Job (Jam 5:7-11). Paul explains suffering purpose using Christ's pattern at the cross and His provision through resurrection (Gal 2:20).God allows us to go through training so that at the judgment seat, we are the victor.
Scripture References: Job 1:19, James 1:1-27, Job 38:1-41, Galatians 2:20, James 5:7-11
From Series: "The Amazing Race"
Heb 12:1-3 says we're in the arena God has predetermined for us. We have our own personal race. We start the race when we become Christians. The race will be finished. We race against ourselves (Spirit vs flesh). The end is evaluated by Jesus Christ.