“You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the mute idols, however you were led.” (1 Corinthians 12:2)
When Paul spoke to the church in Corinth about idolatry – they knew the subject well. The city of Corinth was a hub of religious plurality; the city was packed with gods of every shape and size. Their idols were suited to match all desires, personalities, and worldviews.
Religious confusion is vast and varied for a reason – each is led into lies through different means. That is what Paul meant when he spoke of how they were led into paganism “however you were led”. There are thousands of reasons to follow the world’s religions (or the world’s irreligions)… but there is only one reason to follow Jesus. Those who are faithful unto death do it because Jesus has the truth and is the truth. There is no reason to “take up your cross and follow” Him if it were not so.
Religious confusion is a pick-your-poison game. Christianity is a love of the truth and submission to Jesus proposition. There is a reason that few find it (see Matthew 7:14).
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:1-11
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