Date: January 29, 2023
Bible Text: I Corinthians 13 | Carl Elwood
Start by remembering that Corinthians is a letter to the people in Corinth. It would have been read all in one setting. We pick a section and read it, the dissect it as if it were a stand alone. Please note the end of Corinthians 12 where Paul said, let me show you a better way. Then comes the love chapter. If we had read the entire "letter" we would already know what he is referring to. So let's look at the previous chapters to find the answer.
Chapter 12 tells us we all have gifts. For example someone has been given the gift of hospitality, but it wasn't you. You still need to be hospitable. Some the gift of giving, but everyone should tithe. If your work "gift" is hidden and no one is noticing and now you are pouting; you will have happy church members but God won't be pleased. You aren't supposed to do what you do for the approval of man, but for the Glory of God.
Chapter 11 speaks of divisions. He is discussing the communion supper. He scolds some for getting drunk. Pointing out we should all get a part and not allow the others to go without.
Chapter 10 was a review of the exodus walk and "bodies spread all over the dessert." Warning given, stand firm, only 2 of those over 40 made it into the promise land. These are an example to us, "if you think you are standing firm, be careful lest ye fall." I Corinthians 10:12
Now the better way, Love Each Other!