1 Corinthians 13-16

We finish up another book in the Bible with 1 Corinthians 13-16.  Paul wraps up his letter to the Corinthians.  He's still "telling it like it is," at least as he sees it.  He urges people to be more orderly in worshiping God, and he does his best to remind people of Jesus and the power of the resurrection.  As always, Paul's words are powerful today.   Most of it, I love hearing.  He also says some stuff that confuses me a little.  Maybe you can help?


I love what Paul says about God's grace in his life.  He fought God for a long time.  Yet, God changes him, saves him, and uses him for His glory.  Jesus told us God loves to use the least of us for great things, and Paul is proof of that.  He says, 

10 But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.

1 Corinthians 15:10

We all need to hear about God's grace, over and over again.  It gives us so much comfort and hope for our own faith and purpose.

Is there someone special who comes to your mind when you think about God's grace?

I can't help but bring up the words that got my feathers ruffled as well.  You know the part when Paul talks about women speaking in church?  He says,

34 Women[a] should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says.

1 Corinthians 14:34

What are we to do with scripture like this in the New Testament?  I can handle stuff like this in the Old Testament because I know Jesus changes everything.  Is this just a reflection of the times back then, plain and simple?  But, what does this mean for us today?  I would love your ideas.

Thank goodness, Paul ends his letter on a good note.  His bigger message makes sense to me.  Like the Corinthians, we live in a very troubled world.  He leaves us with solid advice.

13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Everything in love…

Can you think of someone in your life who is really good at doing things in love?  

A prayer for today-

Dear God,

Thank You for loving me and blessing me with your grace.  Help me to serve You by loving others.  Free me from my experiences that have built walls up in my heart.  Transform my heart so that I can freely love the way you need me to.  Show me how to love your way.  I pray for _________ [name all those on your mind] who need Your peace and healing today.

In the name of Jesus I pray,

Amen

In Christ's love,