Stagione 3
Based on our previous experiences within various Apostolic/Prophetic movements, we have consistently observed certain common traits among their "apostles." These individuals can captivate their audience through a magnetic presence, exuding confidence that positions them as authorities on matters of faith. They demonstrate exceptional oratory skills and effectively engage their listeners through compelling storytelling, humour, and the skillful use of rhetorical devices. They commonly emphasize their wealth or success, employing motivational tactics and organizing fundraising initiatives to encourage financial contributions to their ministries, movements or – yes, even brands. These individuals exhibit high functioning and possess considerable capacity, leaving little doubt about their ability to influence and catalyze action. We have repeatedly witnessed these qualities as they demonstrate their power to inspire and motivate.
As we reflect upon this passage from the past, it has consistently presented itself as a delightful text that raises the question of whether Paul's words were imbued with facetiousness or sarcasm. We contend that he did, in fact, employ sarcasm in a manner characterized by both affection and confrontation. Allow us to elucidate the reasons behind our interpretation.
When Paul urges the Corinthians not to go beyond what is written, he argues that they should hold to what today we call a biblical worldview. Paul's frequent use of Old Testament scriptures in his writings indicates his continuity with an affirmation of the premises set forth by the prophets who came before him regarding the nature of God in relationship to humanity. Through his references, Paul upholds and builds upon the foundational understanding of God's character and His interaction with mankind as established in the Hebrew Scriptures.
Judge nothing before the timePaul's reminder to "judge nothing before the time" serves as a caution against hasty judgments and highlights the importance of relying on the wisdom and judgment of the Lord. A story from Paul's own life exemplifies this lesson. Once known as Saul, he harshly judged the followers of Jesus, believing they were misguided and heretical. However, a transformative encounter led to his conversion and a new identity as Paul. Through Paul's own transformation, believers learned the importance of not hastily judging others. A time when Paul violates his own advice.Yet, Paul himself violated this advice when he made a premature judgment on John Mark. In Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas disagreed on whether to bring John Mark on a missionary journey due to his previous departure. The disagreement led to their separation, with Barnabas taking John Mark and Paul continuing with Silas.This incident shows that Paul, too, could make flawed judgments. However, it is essential to note that this event occurred before Paul wrote to the Corinthians, highlighting his growth in spiritual understanding. Subsequently, Paul's relationship with John Mark was restored, and John Mark became a valuable helper to the apostle. This story underscores the need for humility, growth, and reliance on the Lord's wisdom in our judgments.
These words from the apostle Paul are as relevant today as when he wrote them to the Corinthians. In a world filled with competing ideas, ideologies, and wisdom, it is crucial to discern the truth and not be swayed by deception. In a world divided by various allegiances and ideologies, remember that we are Christ. This affirmation calls us to recognize our unity with Him and to obey His teachings.
When we ask the question, “What is a temple” the concise answer would be it is where God dwells or a place where God meets man. In that sense, then, we understand that Jesus was, in fact, a temple in that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself.However, one of Jesus’ last prayers included the notion that we would be one with himself and with the Father even as they were one. The prayer follows along these lines and can be found in John 17:20-23.
Paul was indeed a master builder; however, while Paul played a significant role in shaping early Christianity, the faith itself is founded upon Jesus Christ and the teachings of the original apostles. The influence of other early Christian leaders, such as Peter, James, and John, would still have played a vital role in the growth and development of the Church in the absence of Paul. Returning to the text, we can see that regardless of whom God appoints to plant or water, God brings forth the increase and causes the Gospel to prosper wherever it goes!
No matter how profound the knowledge of Scripture, how extensive the spiritual insights, how precise the theological accuracies are, or even how remarkable the display of spiritual gifts may be, it holds little significance if, within the church, there exists jealousy, competition, and a lack of unity. In such an environment, we find a church that is both carnal and spiritually immature, despite the uplifting nature of worship services or the outward manifestations of spirituality.
While this may come as a shock to the reader (or listener) and those one may even be offended at the following statement, nevertheless, it is true. Ready for it? We are not the best judge of our own spirituality. Consider the following text:1 Corinthians 4:3-4: "But with me, it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me." Paul acknowledges that even he does not have full knowledge or understanding of his own spiritual condition. He says, “My conscience is clean, but that does not mean I am not guilty or that I am not doing anything wrong; God will be the ultimate judge.” So, Paul recognizes that ultimate judgment belongs to the Lord, not human beings. We would all walk a little lighter; if we truly understood the point made here by Paul.
Our passage today emphasizes the distinction between man’s and God’s wisdom. When Paul speaks, he does not rely on worldly wisdom but on the teachings of the Holy Spirit. Without spiritual discernment, the natural man cannot fully grasp or receive the things of God. The message of the Gospel, including concepts like the crucifixion and the spiritual significance of Jesus' words, may appear foolish or incomprehensible to those who rely solely on human understanding. We are reminded today that we all need spiritual discernment and reliance on the Holy Spirit to truly understand and embrace God's wisdom as demonstrated in Christ.