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 13, 2000
Cross to the Crown #10
Phi 4:4 - rejoice means "celebrate the victory". Christ won the battle. The moment you had "peace with God" (Rom 5:8) you entered a battle with the enemy Satan. The eight guardians of the soul. The Trojan horse of the soul is anxiety (fear - Heb 2:14-15). There is no justifiable reason to have anxiety as a Christian. Three-fold approach in Phi 4:6-9: (A) build a wall (1Pe 1:4) confidence and effective pray; rest in His security (Phi 4:6-7); (B) man the watchtower with guardians (Phi 4:8) of thought: 1)Truth - the declared revelation of God.; 2) Noble - dignified, inspiring and reverent - opposite of cowardice; 3) Just - right and fair - truth in action; 4) Pure - innocence of motive - opposite of duplicity (deception) and opposite of singleness of heart; 5) Lovely - beauty, graciousness - no humor; 6) Honor - giving God His due; 7) Virtue - good character or grace and mercy in action; 8) Praiseworthy - good reputation - glory and heroic action (2Co 8:18). Anxious people don't make heroes. (C) keep the enemy outside (Phi 4:9) - DO IT!
Scripture References: Philippians 4:6-9, Hebrews 2:14-15, Romans 5:8, Philippians 4:4, Philippians 4:9, Philippians 4:8, Philippians 4:6-7
From Series: "The Cross to the Crown"
To get from 'the cross to the crown' we need to make decisions to live a life of spiritual dynamics using God's provisions -- His Word and Spirit. This series given in early 2006 before Gene moved back to the States outlines ten aspects of our discipleship.