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 #11
Nine facets in the diamond on the bride - Diamonds in the Bible (Exo 28:18, Jer 17:1, Eze 28:13). The adornment of the bride is composed of the righteous act of the saints (Rev 19:7-9, Isa 61:10-11). Divine production in life of the believer are valuable (1Co 3:12). Living faith will be rewarded (Jam 2:17). The works of the flesh (Gal 5:16-21) are the antithesis to the fruit of the spirit (Gal 5:22-25). What does it take to make a diamond? one element (carbon), heat, pressure, time, cutting and polishing; the same is true of us when it comes to God increasing Christ-likeness in us. Diamond in original Greek means "invincible". Fruit of the Spirit has a threefold division -- spiritual relation to (1) God -- Love, joy, peace; (2) others -- patience, kindness, goodness; and (3) yourself - faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. The are fake diamonds Col 2:8, Col 2:16, Col 2:18; Col 2:23. Surrender is needed for this -- the character and conduct of Christ in us (Gal 4:19, 1Jo 2:6). Good works? (1) Sacrifice whatever will make another stumble (Rom 14:21). Maintaining sexual purity (1Co 7:1, 1Th 4:3). (2) Being content with what you have (1Co 7:26, 1Ti 6:8, Heb 13:5). (3) To exercise your spiritual gift for the blessing of other believers (1Co 12:7). (4) Generous giving (2Co 9:7-8, Gal 6:6). (5) Work in supporting yourself (Eph 4:28, 1Th 3:8-10). (6) Fight the good fight (1Ti 1:18). (7) Boldly confessing Christ (1Ti 6:12).
Scripture References: Colossians 2:18, Galatians 6:6, Revelation 19:7-9, Colossians 2:16, Hebrews 13:5, Ezekiel 28:13, Colossians 2:8, Romans 14:21, Jeremiah 17:1, Galatians 5:22-25, John 2:6, Exodus 28:18, Galatians 5:16-21, Galatians 4:19, James 2:17, Colossians 2:23, Ephesians 4:28, Isaiah 61:10-11
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.