Central Truth

We praise God for the privilege of His grace, and the gifts available to us because of His power now in us.

Reflections

In parent-teacher conferences, any good teacher knows it's best to begin with a positive statement, especially if there is some negative news to follow. Paul is using this same wisdom as he starts his first letter to the Christians in the church at Corinth. Paul had received word that this young church was struggling with immoral temptations surrounding them in Corinth. There was also disharmony in the church itself. 

Paul has some stern messages to deliver later in this letter.  However, today's passage is his initial greeting to his old friends.  The "positive" comments that start this greeting are not about any good works this church has done. Instead, he focuses on the power and strength available to them through God's grace. 

Our key verse sums up his greeting, "I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus." (1 Corinthians 1:4) What does this mean for us today? Through Christ's sacrificial death on our behalf, we have free and open access to God! We can turn to Him anytime, and bring all our needs and worries to Him! Verse five tells us we have available the power to speak for Christ and to understand His truth.

This comforts me, personally, in my insecurity of what I can do in my own strength. I am reassured that, when needed, God will give me the words for my testimony. He will help me clarify His truth when I study His word. Verse eight assures me Christ will stand by me to the end.  Until that time, I will be considered blameless-- certainly not because of anything I have done. I am blameless  because of Jesus' sacrifice for me. Even if I stray, God will always be faithful to pursue His relationship with me. 

Such power in these promises! Like the Corinthians, we live in a world of insecurity, immorality and disharmony. But, through God's strength, not our own, we are equipped for faithful day to day living in our messy, sinful world. I would welcome this message in my inbox any day!

Discussion Questions

1. If Paul wrote a letter to our church, what would he say specifically to us? What might be his positive comments? What would be the negatives?
2. How does our key passage encourage you personally?