Readings for today: 1 Corinthians 1-4
Sometimes we make life too complicated. This is true for the Christian faith as well. We build elaborate theological systems and police adherence to them through equally elaborate denominational systems when in fact, the Christian life can be boiled down to very simple terms. Listen to how the Apostle Paul describes it in 1 Corinthians, “I always thank my God for you because of the grace of God given to you in Christ Jesus, that you were enriched in him in every way, in all speech and all knowledge. In this way, the testimony about Christ was confirmed among you, so that you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ. He will also strengthen you to the end, so that you will be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful; you were called by him into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 1:4-9 CSB)
We are saved by grace. Grace is a gift. It is not something we can earn or achieve on our own. It’s not something we can buy with money or gain with enough investment of time and energy. Grace is given so we might believe in Jesus Christ and be saved.
We are blessed. God’s gifts don’t stop with grace. He lavishes His gifts on us. Filling us with all speech and knowledge. Providing every spiritual gift we need so we may accomplish His will for our lives in this world.
We are strong. Not in ourselves but because God is with us. He strengthens us to meet every challenge. He strengthens us to overcome every trial. He strengthens us that we may endure every temptation. He will never fail us as we make our way in this world.
We are blameless. Not because we do not sin but because we have been justified by Christ. Washed in His blood. Clothed in His righteousness alone. Sanctified by His Spirit. Made holy by His abiding presence in our lives.
We are never alone. We have fellowship with the Son of God Himself, even Jesus Christ. God is faithful. He will never leave us or forsake us. He will never abandon us or walk away from us. He will be with us to the end. All the way until Jesus comes again.
These are incredible promises. Especially when one consider the mess the Corinthian church found themselves in. Divided. Broken. Prideful. Arrogant. Boasting. They believed they were wise. They believed they were strong. They believed they were rich. They believed they were powerful. But the gospel exposes them to the truth. They are foolish, weak, poor, and powerless. Only Christ is the wisdom and power of God. And those who are simple in faith find their hope in Him.
Readings for tomorrow: 1 Corinthians 5-8