“But in giving this instruction, I do not praise you because you come together not for the better but for the worse.” (1 Corinthians 11:17)
Sometimes, Paul was a blunt guy. When he instructed the church on how to gather and take the Lord’s Supper, he made it clear to them that the reason they were receiving that instruction was because they needed rebuke, not praise.
That’s true for all of us. Sometimes the thing we need most is to be told we are wrong. It doesn’t do us any favors to let us feel good about our flaws. Where error exists, truth must correct. It is no kindness to allow someone to continue on a path away from God.
The church in Corinth was sinning, and it didn’t matter that they felt good about their gatherings. If you are comfortable in your sin – find someone who will make you uncomfortable. We need more blunt love in this world.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:17-25
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision