#1672 1 Corinthians 4 Part 2 Self Satisfaction

 

8 You are already filled, you have already become rich, you have ruled without us—and how I wish that you had ruled indeed so that we also might rule with you. 9 For, I think that God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death, because we have become a spectacle to the world, and to angels, and to men. 10 We are fools for the sake of Christ, but you are prudent in Christ! We are weak, but you are strong! You are glorious, but we are without honor! 11 To this present hour we hunger and thirst, and are poorly clothed, and roughly treated, and homeless; 12 and we labor, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are slandered, we try to plead; we have become as the scum of the world, the grime of all things, even until now.

14 I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children. 15 For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel. 16 Therefore I exhort you, be imitators of me. 17 For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and who will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church. 18 Now some have become puffed up, as though I were not coming to you. 19 But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills, and I shall know, not the words of those who are puffed up but their power. 20 For the kingdom of God does not consist in words but in power. 21 What do you desire? Shall I come to you with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness? 1 Corinthians 4: 8-21 LSB

1 Corinthians 4: 8-21

V. 8 You are already filled - We left off with Paul confronting their boasting in men and their love of worldly wisdom. This wisdom brought them to believe that they were already rich spiritually, that they were mature and reigning, as though they were in the Millennial Kingdom now. They were content in themselves, conceited. It is easy to live in past success, what you used to do; I read the Bible, I believed, my testimony is that I am no longer the person I used to be, but are you done growing then? Have you confused a time of prosperity with God acknowledging something special about you that other Christians don't seem to have? Have you become like Job's friends and think that Christians being put in prison in China or slaughtered in Nigeria are suffering because they aren't as spiritually mature as you, don't hold their tongue or cross their fingers the same way you do when you pray?

…16So because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to vomit you out of My mouth! 17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. 18I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see.… Revelation 3: 16-18

11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. 12Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,… Philippians 3: 11-13

Vs. 9-10 As men condemned to death - `    MacArthur notes that the set of gladiators reserved for the finale were going to be fighting for their lives. They were often the worst sort of criminals or political opponents. Paul uses the contrast of his life versus theirs. In their minds he is probably doing it wrong, like many in the Pentecostal movements would suggest. People cringe at the thought of using sarcasm, but people also cringe at basic truths today, yet Paul doesn't shrink from it. "We are fools, you are prudent, we are weak, but you are strong, you are glorious, yet we are without honor." 

MacArthur - Verses 9-13 can be summarized by four words: spectacles, fools, sufferers, and scum. Those words describe Paul’s condition in contrast to what the Corinthians considered their condition to be. They thought they had everything in themselves; he knew he had nothing in himself....During the millennial kingdom the twelve apostles will reign with Christ on earth. They will “sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel” (Matt. 19:28). But when they ministered on earth they did anything but rule. They became a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. They were ridiculed, spit upon, imprisoned, beaten, mocked, an generally treated like criminals. Then they were last; but in Christ’s coming kingdom they will be first.

Morris - spectacle. This word is better translated "theater." In its only other occurrence in the New Testament, this word is also translated as such (Acts 19:29,31). It is sobering, as well as amazing, to realize that Christians--especially Christian leaders such as Paul and the apostles--are on a stage, as it were, being carefully watched by an audience that even includes the angels (compare Ephesians 3:10; 1 Corinthians 11:10; 1 Peter 1:12). - Precept Austin

V. 11 We are both hungry and thirsty - Very difficult concepts for Western Christians. I am fat, and have to make hard decisions like, "what do I feel like eating today?" Paul goes without often, and prison is probably a welcome break at times because he receives a meal. Coming to Christ because you think you will become wealthy is not Paul's story, and Jesus turned away those looking only for fish and bread. Judas was there for wealth, and when it didn't pan out he sold the Savior of the world, his only real hope, for next to nothing. 

…11I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. 12I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation— to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need. 13I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.… Philippians 4: 11-13

Vs. 12-13 We labor, working with our own hands - The Greeks considered manual labor beneath them. It was something reserved for slaves. This again goes back to worldly wisdom. Paul had a trade, and we make the same mistake today. I hear people say they are sending their kids to school so that they don't follow in the family business of farming, laying tile, or so many other things that are much more necessary and therefore dignified then where we place them. The richest men still have to eat the food that the farmer grows, and all your wealth would become worthless if people stopped refused to farm. Paul doesn't take a salary and this also frees him up to teach that it is okay to do this in the case of a vocational elder. Sometimes God calls you to be a tent maker though, that would be to have the call but without the money, perhaps to a people who are poor. 

17Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching. 18For the Scripture says, “ Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and, “The worker is worthy of his wages.” 19Do not entertain an accusation against an elder, except on the testimony of two or three witnesses.… 1 Timothy 5: 17-19

…13Do you not know that those who work in the temple eat of its food, and those who serve at the altar partake of its offerings? 14In the same way, the Lord has prescribed that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel. 15But I have not used any of these rights. And I am not writing this to suggest that something be done for me. Indeed, I would rather die than let anyone nullify my boast.… 1 Corinthians 4: 13-15

When we are slandered (blasphemeo defamed), we try to conciliate (parakaleo) - "Humiliation suffered normally leads to anger, which is defined as a desire for revenge accompanied by pain and the recovering of one’s own honor, but Paul instead blesses, endures, and conciliates " (New Linguistic Key) 

Arnold - The Apostles tried to console and pray for those who said evil things about them. They did not try to defend or justify their actions, but committed the slanderers to God. When we bless, endure and answer kindly to our opponents, we are acting in the way Christ acted. We cannot control how people act towards us but we can control how we react to people when they treat us badly. (Conceit: The Root Of Divisions) - Precept Austin

Vs. 14-15 To admonish you - He doesn't want merely to shame them, but that this shame will lead to Godly sorrow over sins. He is approaching them as his own children, that is the amount of investment here. He loves them, and love tells the truth, it points to the One greater.

V. 16 I exhort you, be imitators of me - JMac points out that this is bold but justified, and it brings us to another qualification of those who aspire. You have to be worthy of imitation. Your life and doctrine both have to be sound. Your house has to be in order, and there can be nothing against you in business either, you have to be known even by your enemies as one who uses a just weight and balance. 

…6So we say with confidence: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” 7Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. 8Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.… Hebrews 13: 6-8

1You are to imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. 2Now I commend you for remembering me in everything and for maintaining the traditions, just as I passed them on to you.… 1 Corinthians 11: 1-2

V. 17 For this reason I have sent to you Timothy - Paul had taught Timothy sound doctrine, and he would be able to correct any bad teaching that had slipped in. 

Vs. 18-21 Some have become puffed up - Their pride was off the hook and they were running around boasting as though they would not have to answer for it. It is still better to answer to Paul than to an angry God. There is a lot of correction that needs to occur in this body of believers, and we will see some of that instruction in the next chapter.

15If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’ 17If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And if he refuses to listen even to the church, regard him as you would a pagan or a tax collector.…

18Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19Again, I tell you truly that if two of you on the earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven.… Matthew 18: 15-19

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#1671 1 Corinthians 4 Part 1 Row The Boat

 

Let a man consider us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found faithful. 3 But to me it is a very small thing that I may be examined by you, or by any human court. In fact, I do not even examine myself. 4 For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted. But the one who examines me is the Lord. 5 Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and make manifest the motives of hearts. And then each one’s praise will come to him from God.

6 Now these things, brothers, I have applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to go beyond what is written, so that no one of you will become puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7 For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? 1 Corinthians 4: 1-7 LSB

1 Corinthians 4: 1-7

V.1 Let a man consider us in this manner - This is further clarifying the uselessness of the Corinthian argument, the hero factions. Paul will now define who he, Apollos and Cephas are in Christ.

V. 1b As servants of Christ - The word he uses here is the word for a galley slave, the person who does one particular thing over and over again. There is not a lot of room here for creativity or free styling, the galley master yells out the order and the slaves follow it. Paul and the other apostles' greatness can be found in their obedience to Christ and their faithfulness to preaching the pure gospel. 

i. The word hyperetas literally means an “under-rower,” in the sense that someone is a rower on a big galley ship. So, though it is not the most lowly word for a servant, it is certainly not a prestigious position. Under-rowers serve “Christ the master-pilot, helping forward the ship of the Church toward the haven of heaven.” (Trapp)

ii. Morgan describes this “under-rower” as “one who acts under direction, and asks no questions, one who does the thing he is appointed to do without hesitation, and one who reports only to the One Who is over him.” - Enduring Word

V. 1c And stewards of the mysteries of God - Stewardship involves involves caring for what the Master has given us, whether talent, finances, homes or families. Paul and other believers, pastors, parents, are also responsible to study and preserve the gospel, teaching their children and Christ's sheep. 

9For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building. 10By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one must be careful how he builds. 11For no one can lay a foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.… 1 Corinthians 3: 9-11

14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be shaken.” 15But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect, 16keeping a clear conscience, so that those who slander you may be put to shame by your good behavior in Christ.… 1 Peter 3: 14-16

V. 2 It is required of stewards that one be found faithful - I have seen too often, in my time in churches as a young man, that it has become more of a business model, trying to find what will get people in. The faithfulness that Paul speaks of is to the gospel, and soon we will see how Paul deals with and directs others to deal with those who are leading disorderly lives. His loyalties are clearly to Christ and so his message doesn't change to suit or maintain the size of the visible body. The Bible actually gives very clear instructions about the role of servants in the church, and I have seen both false humility and flagrant pride on display so many times by those who say they have been called. I would challenge everyone to read the expectations that God has for those who teach, and realize also that those qualifications also apply to those who don't serve as elders and deacons, for children are given to their parents. The pastor will not stand in your place before God. I will include a study I did examining these qualifications below. This study was very helpful to me because it protected me by letting me see that I was not qualified, nor should anyone ever assume they are called outside of these qualifications. When you tell me your are called that is not the end of it for me. I am going to examine both your doctrine and your life.

e. It is required in servants that one be found faithful: For stewards, the important thing was faithfulness. They had to be efficient managers of the master’s resources. A steward never owned the property or resource he dealt with; he simply managed it for his master and had to manage it faithfully. - E Word

If any man Aspires Part 1

If any man Aspires Part 2

…3“that it may go well with you and that you may have a long life on the earth.” 4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord. 5Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.… Ephesians 6: 3-5

Vs. 3-5 It is a very small thing that I may be examined by you - Some have taken this wrongly in thinking that Paul was saying you can't judge me. It is quite the opposite, for the opinion of men is actually a problem in that it is very surface. Paul doesn't even judge himself, in that he is not the final authority, for though he may not be aware of a sin, may not feel bothered by a particular behavior or thought, he is not the ultimate judge. Paul has rebuked another Apostle before and so there are some things that are clearly visible as sin, though we may not see it ourselves or as so often we suppress and sear our consciences. 

b. In fact, I do not even judge myself: Even our estimation of ourself is usually wrong. We are almost always too hard or too easy on ourselves. Paul recognizes this, and so will suspend judgment even upon himself. In the end, he who judges me is the Lord.

c. For I know nothing against myself, yet I am not justified by this: Paul also recognizes that he does not stand in a perfect state of justification or innocence just because his conscience was clear. Paul knew his righteousness came from Jesus, not from his own personal life – even though he had a godly walk.

d. Therefore judge nothing before the time: It is as if Paul were saying, “You Corinthians act like judges at athletic events, qualified to give some the trophy and to send others away as losers. But Jesus is the only judge, and you are judging before the events are over.”

e. Who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of men’s hearts: When Jesus judges, it will be according to the motives of the heart, not only the outward action. This is another reason why human judgment is often wrong, and why Paul feels free to disregard the harsh judgment of the Corinthian Christians towards himself. - E word

V. 6 Not to go beyond what is written - This will be another huge issue with the Corinthian church stemming from pride. They need to become people of the Book, and not follow their hearts or egos. This is a huge problem in many places that call themselves churches today, that they man centered rather than preaching God's Word and relying upon Him for the results. 

1When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. 2For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 3I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.… 1 Corinthians 2: 1-3

V. 7 Why do you boast as if you had not received it - The way you look was the way God made you, what family you were born into, and even your ability to believe the gospel came from God, so how have you become arrogant. If your church is growing, like not just in numbers for broad is the way that leads to destruction and many are on that road, but if people are coming in and lives are being changed, that is the work of the Holy Spirit. The Corinthians wanted, as we will see, a stage, a talent show to display their abilities, and if they were real they came from God, so where is your boasting? If they were phony they came from the father of pride, again, nothing to boast about. 

…7in order that in the coming ages He might display the surpassing riches of His grace, demonstrated by His kindness to us in Christ Jesus. 8For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9not by works, so that no one can boast.… Ephesians 2: 7-9

1This is a trustworthy saying: If anyone aspires to be an overseer, he desires a noble task. 2An overseer, then, must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, 3not dependent on wine, not violent but gentle, peaceable, and free of the love of money.… 1 Timothy 3: 1-3

…9Grieve, mourn, and weep. Turn your laughter to mourning, and your joy to gloom. 10Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you. 11Brothers, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against his brother or judges him speaks against the law and judges it. And if you judge the law, you are not a practitioner of the law, but a judge of it.… James 4: 9-11

…21The troops took sheep and cattle from the plunder, the best of the things devoted to destruction, in order to sacrifice them to the LORD your God at Gilgal.” 22But Samuel declared: “Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obedience to His voice? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams. 23For rebellion is like the sin of divination, and arrogance is like the wickedness of idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has rejected you as king.”… 1 Samuel 15: 21-23

More from 1 Samuel 15

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#1670 1 Corinthians 3 Part 3 Self Deception

 

18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age, he must become foolish, so that he may become wise. 19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God. For it is written, “He is the one who catches the wise in their craftiness”; 20 and again, “The Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are useless.” 21 So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you, 22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things belong to you, 23 and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God. 1 Corinthians 3: 18-23 LSB

1 Corinthians 3: 18-23

V. 18 Let no man deceive himself - You would think deception is an external thing, for who would want to be dishonest or lay a snare for their own self? Think about it though, you are never not a participant, even when someone else is trying to deceive you, you ultimately give assent to what they are telling you. Now it is not always our fault when we can't detect a lie. When I ask you, "did you take this item, or did you press the button?" And you answer, "No", well without seeing you do that it is difficult to know for sure. But, if I need to find out then I have to go through a series of other questions. Were you the only one there, did anyone else have access? Is the item on your person? My favorite is when there is a camera there, and it tells me a very different story then the one the person is saying, but that individual still insists that I should take their word over what my eyes can clearly see. Better still, their boss or a  member of Security has watched the footage with me, agreed that the person is clearly in the wrong, but while confronting them about it the individual is able to shake them by confidently insisting that reality is not reality. I have seen someone manipulated by a person breaking into tears and saying over and over again, "you gotta believe me." At that point, if you believe them, then they aren't the one deceiving you. 

…3Though the lips of the forbidden woman drip honey and her speech is smoother than oil, 4in the end she is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a double-edged sword. 5Her feet go down to death; her steps lead straight to Sheol.…

…6She does not consider the path of life; she does not know that her ways are unstable. 7So now, my sons, listen to me, and do not turn aside from the words of my mouth. 8Keep your path far from her; do not go near the door of her house,… Proverbs 5: 3-8

…19And no one considers in his heart, no one has the knowledge or insight to say, “I burned half of it in the fire, and I baked bread on its coals; I roasted meat and I ate. Shall I make something detestable with the rest of it? Shall I bow down to a block of wood?” 20He feeds on ashes. His deluded heart has led him astray, and he cannot deliver himself or say, “Is not this thing in my right hand a lie?” Isaiah 44: 19-20

More on Isaiah 44

Let no man deceive himself - This is a command in present imperative with a negative which means stop deceiving yourself (as they were are already doing). In context the saints had fallen into the dangerous deception of thinking they were wise but it was not in God's wisdom. They were priding themselves on their worldly wisdom. And one way they thought themselves wise was by attaching themselves to a certain teacher or leader. Self-deception is ever a problem for fallen flesh so that the root of this delusion is pride and the antidote is humility ("he must become a fool"). Unity begins with a proper view of self and a willingness to think less highly of self and more highly of God's wisdom. As MacArthur says "Much division in the church would be eliminated if individuals were not so impressed with their own wisdom. A person who thinks that he is wise in this age—that is, wise in contemporary human wisdom—does nothing but deceive himself." - Precept Austin

V. 18b If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age - Here was the Corinthian's self deception - they thought that they were wise. We are guilty as well, in the work force or the world we call it street smart, and at church people will think they have the gift of discernment, yet show no discernment when someone does something so simple as flatter them, or don on sheep's clothing by stating over and over again how humble and honest they are. The Corinthians were appealing to the wisdom of the age rather than the wisdom that comes from God. How did you know that person was a wolf? Well, not from his own mouth, from that he told me he was a shepherd. He told me he was taught by Cephas, which is a good thing, it means he had received correct teaching at some point if the claim is true. But then over and over again he kept tying himself to Cephas and then started flattering me, someone he really didn't know that well. This brought to my mind the Scriptures that warn of flattery, that tell me to beware of wolves in sheep's clothing. Then later he played down something that Paul said about sin, and stated that he was more of a Cephas guy, and rolled his eyes when Apollos showed up. Often we deceive ourselves in these situations because we think we our wise, and we want to believe the flattery about us, so we accept when they say, "I am called, God sent me, I have an anointing on my life." Ultimate truth comes from the Creator and He has made it know to us through His word. We must observe both doctrine and life, and emotionally charged revelations are not on the same level, not even close. The truly wise must become foolish, ie admit they are foolish, for the one that thinks he knows everything can learn nothing. Pride is actually the enemy of true wisdom.

If any man among you thinks (present tense - continually) that he is wise in this age - IF is a first class conditional statement means what follows is accepted as true (and thus could be translated "since" or "because"). This indicates that some (? most) of the saints in Corinth were thinking of themselves as wise, but worldly wise, not godly wise (as was Paul in 1 Cor 3:10 = "a WISE master builder"! "Many in the Corinthian church prided themselves on their supposed spirituality or spiritual giftedness or knowledge." (Utley) In our fleshly moments, all believers fall into the trap of thinking too highly of ourselves and our wisdom. The fallen flesh will continually fight against harmony, thinking it's way is the wisest way, but the result is disharmony.

Guzik has an interesting comment - Paul is being a little sarcastic here. Of course the Corinthians considered themselves wise in this age! That was one of their problems, their love of worldly wisdom. - PA

The person who elevates his own wisdom will always have a low view of Scripture.

-- John MacArthur from PA

Thinks (supposes)(1380)(dokeo "primarily, to be of opinion, think, imagine, suppose. To hold an opinion based upon appearances which may be significantly different from reality which is absolutely true in this passage. Uses in Corinthians - 1 Co. 3:18; 1 Co. 4:9; 1 Co. 7:40; 1 Co. 8:2; 1 Co. 10:12; 1 Co. 11:16; 1 Co. 12:22; 1 Co. 12:23; 1 Co. 14:37; 2 Co. 10:9; 2 Co. 11:16; 2 Co. 12:19; - PA

14But small is the gate and narrow the way that leads to life, and only a few find it. 15Beware of false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16By their fruit you will recognize them. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles?… Matthew 7: 14-16

More on Matthew 7

…20The anger of the LORD will not turn back until He has fully accomplished the purposes of His heart. In the days to come you will understand this clearly. 21I did not send these prophets, yet they have run with their message; I did not speak to them, yet they have prophesied. 22But if they had stood in My council, they would have proclaimed My words to My people and turned them back from their evil ways and deeds.” Jeremiah 23: 20-22

More on Jeremiah 23

1The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases. 2All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart. 3To do righteousness and justice is more desirable to the LORD than sacrifice.… Proverbs 21: 1-3

Vs. 19-20 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God - The ultimate mirror for reality is available to the Corinthians, the same that it is available to you, the Holy Scriptures. You have even less excuse for the Canon was still being completed in their time, but you may go to the Bible any time you wish to hear something true, or any time you would like to see yourself rightly. If the world stumbles upon a truth that the Bible already teaches, well great for everyone, but truth doesn't originate with them, it stands fixed and eternal, whether they come to know it or not. The world's wisdom outside of God is unstable even regarding things we know to be true, because they deny Jesus Christ Who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. In calling something good, like a law against murder, saying that it is wrong to kill and this is best because none of us want to be killed, but yet denying God as the ultimate source for morality and the Creator of life, you end up with something which is less than an absolute truth in itself, it's origin being a truth about preference. It is true that I prefer not to be murdered, but it cannot be said that it is true that murder is ultimately wrong or evil, because you have denied the first truth, that people are made in the image of God and murder is an afront towards Him. Life belongs to the Creator of life. 

…21For although they knew God, they neither glorified Him as God nor gave thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking and darkened in their foolish hearts. 22Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools, 23and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images of mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles.… Romans 1: 21-23

More on Romans 1

…12He thwarts the schemes of the crafty, so that their hands find no success. 13He catches the wise in their craftiness, and sweeps away the plans of the cunning. 14They encounter darkness by day and grope at noon as in the night.… Job 5: 12-14

V. 21 So let no one boast in men - It all comes down to pride. It wasn't that the apostles weren't great men of God, but in separating into camps the people doing so were trying to rep as though it made them special or set apart. This will continue to be a theme throughout the book. 

Albert Barnes - These considerations (PRECEDING CONTEXT) should lead us to live above contention, and the fondness of party. Sect and party in the church are not formed by the love of the pure and simple gospel, but by the love of some philosophical opinion, or by an admiration of the wisdom, talents, learning, eloquence, or success of some Christian teacher. Against this the apostle would guard us; and the considerations presented in this chapter should elevate us above all the causes of contention and the love of sect, and teach us to love as brothers all who love our Lord Jesus Christ.(Barnes Notes)

Let no one boast in men - NET = "no more boasting about mere mortals." No one is medeis which means absolutely no one, not even one whoever he may be. This is not a suggestion from Paul, but a commandment from the Spirit to stop boasting as they were clearly doing. Obedience to this command would enable them to overcome the church divisions that were occurring. The command is present imperative with a negative and the only way these fleshly men and women would be able to stop boasting in men was to learn to daily depend on the Holy Spirit to obey The same is true of us in regard to our fleshly tendency to boast, whether it be in other men, things, ourselves, etc, etc. Boasting is a manifestation or outworking of pride, which is our root problem. It's the BIG "I" smack dab in the middle of the word "sIn" and interestingly is also the middle letter of "prIde!" Don't say the devil made you do it! We have plenty of devilish deception in our old flesh to energize boasting for the rest of our days on earth! Paul has already given the perfect cure/antidote for the poison of boasting "LET HIM WHO BOASTS, BOAST IN THE LORD.” (1 Cor 1:31+).

THOUGHT - We are more excited about being with the influential and famous of this world than about being with God. We value the gifts and honors of men more than the gifts and honors God gives. How we need to hear, let no one glory in men! (Guzik)

Vs. 22-23 All things belong to you - Paul and Apollos were who they were because of God calling them through Christ. Our life is from God and death has been swallowed up by Christ's victory on the cross. We are no longer slave but sons, and none of that thanks to us, so be humble, and find true wisdom in God's word. 

…37No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. 38For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor principalities, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.… Romans 8: 37-39

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#1669 1 Corinthians 3 Part 2 Materials

 

10 According to the grace of God which was given to me, like a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building on it. But each man must be careful how he builds on it. 11 For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12 Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13 each man’s work will become evident, for the day will indicate it because it is revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work. 14 If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. 15 If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

16 Do you not know that you are a sanctuary of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17 If any man destroys the sanctuary of God, God will destroy him, for the sanctuary of God is holy, and that is what you are. 1 Corinthians 3: 10-17 LSB

1 Corinthians 3: 10-17

V. 10 I laid a foundation, and another is building on it - Paul was the master builder, the planter, the one who not only made first contact, but helped them establish what a church structure looked like, in the case of the Corinthians this was in person for 1.5 years. He sowed the seed of the gospel, which took root in the soil which the Holy Spirit had tilled. The apostles were also foundational beyond what we know as church planting today, in that they also scribed the canon which is the foundation for our teaching in every age. Paul was using his gifts as an Apostle, an evangelist, to glorify Christ. Apollos came and further built upon this foundation, not contradicting the floor, but further enhancing their understanding through his gift of teaching. 

…10As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another. 11If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 12Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you.… 1 Peter 4: 10-12

11Then Hiram king of Tyre wrote a letter in reply to Solomon: “Because the LORD loves His people, He has set you over them as king.” 12And Hiram added: “Blessed be the LORD, the God of Israel, who made the heavens and the earth! He has given King David a wise son with insight and understanding, who will build a temple for the LORD and a royal palace for himself. 13So now I am sending you Huram-abi, a skillful man endowed with creativity.… 2 Chronicles 2: 11-13

Vs. 10b-11 Each man must be careful how he builds on it - The Bible is clear that it is a single coin, one side is a man's life and the other his doctrine. I have grown up in churches and witnessed many kind, generous, and intelligent men, who seemed orderly in both family and business, yet taught things contrary to the word of God. The foundation is Christ, and that is what Paul laid and Apollos continued building with, but there are some who don't take the same care. People pleasers, the fun guy, easy going girls, all steer away from the foundation in order to stay in people's graces. They come up with schemes to get people into the church, to fill seats, and then must come up with even bigger schemes to get them to remain in those seats. The model is already set for us in Paul taking the gospel out to the world, and then Apollos watering that seed towards maturity. We never read of their programs, pizza parties, concerts or yoga classes, those things are all man focused and here we see the very foundation of the church is Christocentric. "For no one can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ." 

…13For such men are false apostles, deceitful workers, masquerading as apostles of Christ. 14And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 15It is not surprising, then, if his servants masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their actions.… 2 Corinthians 11: 13-15

1Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. 3In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep.… 2 Peter 2: 1-3

…11This Jesus is ‘the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.’ 12 Salvation exists in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” 13When they saw the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were unschooled, ordinary men, they marveled and took note that these men had been with Jesus.… Acts 4: 11-13

Vs. 12-13 The fire itself will test the quality of each man's work - In order to get the purest gold and silver you must put your prewashed nuggets or dust into a crucible, which is a container designed to handle high heat. When you heat up the gold it releases it's contaminants into a scum we call dross, that forms at the top of the metal. Once all the dross is removed you have pure gold. If what you built with was tested by fire and it came out as pure gold then you stayed with the Designer's intent, your work was good, but on the other end of the spectrum we have hay or straw, which would leave nothing. By not sticking with the original plans you gave people what they want, made a spectacle of yourself, and may have filled many a seat, but all that's left is a smudge, a carbon stain, a work done in vain.

1“Behold, I will send My messenger, who will prepare the way before Me. Then the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to His temple—the Messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight—see, He is coming,” says the LORD of Hosts. 2But who can endure the day of His coming? And who can stand when He appears? For He will be like a refiner’s fire, like a launderer’s soap. 3And He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver; He will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver. Then they will present offerings to the LORD in righteousness.… Malachi 3: 1-3

More on Malachi 3

…17You say, ‘I am rich; I have grown wealthy and need nothing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked. 18I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined by fire so that you may become rich, white garments so that you may be clothed and your shameful nakedness not exposed, and salve to anoint your eyes so that you may see. 19Those I love, I rebuke and discipline. Therefore be earnest and repent.… Revelation 3: 17-19

…8Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. 9Do not be carried away by all kinds of strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace and not by foods of no value to those devoted to them. 10We have an altar from which those who serve at the tabernacle have no right to eat.… Hebrews 13: 8-10

…1Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, or set foot on the path of sinners, or sit in the seat of mockers. 2But his delight is in the Law of the LORD, and on His law he meditates day and night. 3He is like a tree planted by streams of water, yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither, and who prospers in all he does.…

…4Not so the wicked! For they are like chaff driven off by the wind. 5Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. 6For the LORD guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish.… Psalm 1: 1-6

More on Psalm 1

Vs. 14-15 But he himself will be saved - How wild a thought, but the language is very clear. There are some who have stated the simple gospel most plainly, and I do think believed. I heard the gospel as a young boy from men who would later go on to preaching careers that looked more like motivational speakers, Ted talks, going on about their golf game or flattering themselves with their use of big words. Because you are saved does not mean you won't be tempted, and there will always be a host of people encouraging you to water down the message, to pack straw upon the foundation. That foundation is tested though, indestructible, so everything else will burn up that isn't Christ, including those of your congregation who trusted in your hay rather than the Cornerstone. 

Matthew Henry - In that day, There are others whose works shall be burnt, whose corrupt opinions and doctrines, or vain inventions and usages in the worship of God, shall be discovered, disowned, and rejected, in that day-shall be first manifested to be corrupt, and then disapproved of God and rejected. The great day will pluck off all disguises, and make things appear as they are: He whose work shall be burnt will suffer loss. If he have built upon the right foundation wood and hay and stubble, he will suffer loss. His weakness and corruption will be the lessening of his glory (ED: HENRY APPARENTLY SEES PART OF THE "REWARD" AS DEGREES OF GLORY WHICH IS POSSIBLE), though he may in the general have been an honest and an upright Christian. This part of his work will be lost, turning no way to his advantage, though he himself may be saved. Those who hold the foundation of Christianity, though they build hay, wood, and stubble, upon it, may be saved....for nothing will damn men but wickedness. He shall be saved, yet so as by fire, saved out of the fire. He himself shall be snatched out of that flame which will consume his work.

Burned up (2618)(katakaio from kata = intensifies meaning of verb + kaio = to burn) means to burn up, to consume or destroy by fire. The word denotes a violent consuming heat. 11 NT uses - Matt. 3:12; Matt. 13:30; Matt. 13:40; Lk. 3:17; Acts 19:19; 1 Co. 3:15; Heb. 13:11; 2 Pet. 3:10; Rev. 8:7; Rev. 17:16; Rev. 18:8

Suffer loss (forfeit) (2210)(zemioo from zemia) means to affect with damage or to do damage to, to suffer injury, to suffer loss, to sustain damage, to forfeit or to fine. It means to experience the loss of something, with implication of undergoing hardship or suffering. Zemioo was a business term meaning to "punish by exacting a forfeit" (Vincent). 6x in NT - Matt. 16:26; Mk. 8:36; Lk. 9:25; 1 Co. 3:15; 2 Co. 7:9; Phil. 3:8

But he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire - Salvation is secure, but rewards are not guaranteed.

MacArthur writes that "It is easy to fool ourselves into thinking that anything we do in the Lord’s name is in His service, just as long as we are sincere, hardworking, and well meaning. But what looks to us like gold may turn out to be straw, because we have not judged our materials by the standards of God’s Word—pure motives, holy conduct, and selfless service."

Brian Bell - Picture a man escaping a burning building, he has his life…but no possessions. - Precept Austin

7For many deceivers have gone out into the world, refusing to confess the coming of Jesus Christ in the flesh. Any such person is the deceiver and the antichrist. 8Watch yourselves, so that you do not lose what we have worked for, but that you may be fully rewarded. 9Anyone who runs ahead without remaining in the teaching of Christ does not have God. Whoever remains in His teaching has both the Father and the Son.… 2 John 1: 7-9

…10“I sent plagues among you like those of Egypt; I killed your young men with the sword, along with your captured horses. I filled your nostrils with the stench of your camp, yet you did not return to Me,” declares the LORD. 11“Some of you I overthrew as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, and you were like a firebrand snatched from a blaze, yet you did not return to Me,” declares the LORD. 12“Therefore, that is what I will do to you, O Israel, and since I will do this to you, prepare to meet your God, O Israel!… Amos 4: 10-12

More on Amos 4

16These men are discontented grumblers, following after their own lusts; their mouths spew arrogance; they flatter others for their own advantage. 17But you, beloved, remember what was foretold by the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ 18when they said to you, “In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow after their own ungodly desires.”…

…19These are the ones who cause divisions, who are worldly and devoid of the Spirit. 20But you, beloved, by building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, 21keep yourselves in the love of God as you await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you eternal life.…

…22And indeed, have mercy on those who doubt; 23 save others by snatching them from the fire; and to still others show mercy tempered with fear, hating even the clothing stained by the flesh. 24Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you unblemished in His glorious presence, with great joy—…

25to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority through Jesus Christ our Lord before all time, and now, and for all eternity. Amen. Jude 16-25

19treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life. 20O Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to you. Avoid irreverent, empty chatter and the opposing arguments of so-called “knowledge,” 21which some have professed and thus swerved away from the faith. Grace be with you all.… 1 Timothy 6: 19-21

Vs. 16-17 Do you not know that you are the sanctuary of God - The building is not the church, the people are, and the foundation is Christ. Encourage your ministers to use the right materials for they will be held accountable. Also carry yourself as such. Would the sanctuary of God ever choose to pollute itself? Would it try to move off the foundation? That would be disastrous. 

…2Certainly not! How can we who died to sin live in it any longer? 3Or aren’t you aware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? 4We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life.… Romans 6: 2-4

More from Romans 6

18Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body. 19 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20you were bought at a price. Therefore glorify God with your body.… 1 Corinthians 6: 18-20

If any man destroys (phtheiro in present tense) the temple (naos) of God, (now he gives a "prophetic promise" so to speak) God will destroy (phtheiro) him - Many commentaries suggest things like false doctrine, false teachers, Jewish legalism, "moral corruption (see Wuest's paraphrase above)," (and we know there was some of that defilement but that comes later in the letter in chapters 5-6), etc, and of course each of those things can destroy a church. However what has Paul mentioned specifically as that which would be destructive to the church in Corinth? Here is a prime example of the rule that context is king in interpretation and the corollary axiom - Read the text in context before you read the comments in the commentaries! In context, Paul is speaking of the church and the deadly effect of internal strife and division on the Body (1 Cor 1:11+, 1 Cor 3:3+) (See Ralph Earle below). Division between saints can easily progress to division of (split of) a Church (and if you have been a Christian a few decades, you have likely witnessed this tragic scenario of an established church splitting). To be sure fleshly saints (1 Cor 3:1-2, 3+) are the primary instruments by which a church is divided, the ultimate author of that division is Satan, whose very name devil is the Greek word diabolos, which in turn is from dia (through or between) and ballo (thow). This etymology of diabolos gives us a perfect word picture of Satan's cunning as he wages ceaseless attacks seeking to devour and divide God's spiritual entities, be they a Christian church, a Christian marriage, a Christian ministry, etc.

THOUGHT - Let's be brutally honest. We all have had times when we have strongly disagreed with something in the politics of a church we were attending. Now do not misunderstand, I am not referring to teaching which is questionable or even false, because we are called to disagree with such teaching. I am speaking of opinions (color of the rug in the sanctuary, who should do the most preaching, etc, etc). So Paul's solemn warning applies to every man or woman who would dare to incite division in the church, whether by gossip, innuendo, accusations, etc. Paul's strong warning to be a cause to pause for all of us! If it becomes intolerable and you cannot hold your tongue, you should seek godly counsel with the elders or pastor and if you are still unresolved in your heart, it may be time to move on to another church. As sad as that would be, it would be better to mover on than to destroy the church and in turn be destroyed! - PA

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