Monday 09 February 2015
- Bible Book:
- 1 Corinthians
“To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, together with all those who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours” (v. 2)
Psalm: Psalm 105:1-5
Background
The capital of Achaia province, Corinth was a thriving port citywith harbours in the east and the north. It was at the crossroadsof trade routes both east and west, and north and south. It wascosmopolitan and had a large transient population, which meant thatboth different trades and various cults could be found within thecity walls. The
The church at Corinth would have reflected this social mix. Theletter reflects their differences and the disagreements they hadbecause of it, such as the eating of meet offered to idols (
What is evident in today's passage is the fondness and love thatPaul for the church. He clearly seems knows the people there andthe way that they have been "enriched in [Jesus], in speech andknowledge of every kind" (v. 6) and are "not lacking in anyspiritual gift" (v. 7). It is that devotion that Paul will continueto display as he advises and chides them in the rest of theletter.
To Ponder
- How do your local area and circumstances influence your church?Your faith? Your discipleship?
- To what extent is the church and/or your faith part of youridentity?
- Paul displays a love and care for the members of the church inCorinth. How might you display love and care for those in yourchurch (and/or your fellowship group), especially if you disagreewith them on certain point?