The Nature of Love: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

1. What Love Does
4 Love is patient and kind . . . 1 Corinthians 13:4 (ESV)

8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Psalm 103:8 (ESV)

22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV)

2. What Love Does Not Do
4 . . . love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.
1 Corinthians 13:4–6 (ESV)

97 Oh how I love your law! It is my meditation all the day. Psalm 119:97 (ESV)

8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8

3. How Love Elevates
7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
1 Corinthians 13:7 (ESV)

35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 13:35 (ESV)

31 But earnestly desire the higher gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.
1 Corinthians 12:31 (ESV)

7 Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God. 8 Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only Son into the world, so that we might live through him. 1 John 4:7-9 (ESV)

The Need for Love: 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

1. The valueless gifts of communication without love
If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 And if I have prophetic powers . . . 1 Corinthians 13:1–2 (ESV)

4  Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Philippians 2:4 (ESV)

2. The valueless gifts of comprehension without love
2 . . .  and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:2 (ESV)

1 . . . This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up. 2  If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. 1 Corinthians 8:1-2 (ESV)

3. The valueless gifts of confidence without love
2 . . . and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
1 Corinthians 13:2 (ESV)

23  Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and thrown into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Mark 11:23 (ESV)

4. The valueless gifts of compassion without love

3 If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:3 (ESV)

7  Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (ESV)

8 . . . the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:8 (ESV)

1  “Beware of practicing your righteousness before other people in order to be seen by them, for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 6:1 (ESV)

The Pattern of Spiritual Gifts for Worship

1 Corinthians 12:27-31

1. The accord of gifts in Christ’s Church
27 Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. 1 Corinthians 12:27 (ESV)

2. The alignment of gifts for Christ’s Church
28 And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then miracles, then gifts of healing, helping, administrating, and various kinds of tongues.
1 Corinthians 12:28 (ESV)

11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,
Ephesians 4:11 (ESV)

19 But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord’s brother. Galatians 1:19 (ESV)

19 So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, 20 built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, Ephesians 2:19-20 (ESV)

3. The assortment of gifts for Christ’s Church
29 Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? 30 Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 1 Corinthians 12:29-30 (ESV)

4. The ambition in gifts for Christ’s Church
31 But earnestly desire the higher gifts . . . 1 Corinthians 12:31 (ESV)

5. The approach to gifts for Christ’s Church
31 . . . And I will show you a still more excellent way. 1 Corinthians 12:31 (ESV)

9 For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not murder, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Romans 13:9 (ESV)

14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Galatians 5:14 (ESV)

34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. John 13:34 (ESV)

35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
John 13:35 (ESV)

Lessons from the Body Metaphor

1 Corinthians 12:14-26

1. Do I belong to Christ’s body?
14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 15 If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 16 And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. 17 If the whole body were an eye, where would be the sense of hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? . . . 19 If all were a single member, where would the body be? 20 As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.
1 Corinthians 12:14-17; 19-20 (ESV)

2. Did God create Christ’s body?
18 But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose.
1 Corinthians 12:18 (ESV)

10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground! Psalm 143:10 (ESV)

3. Do others belong to Christ’s body?
21 The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you,” nor again the head to the feet, “I have no need of you.” 22 On the contrary, the parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, 23 and on those parts of the body that we think less honorable we bestow the greater honor, and our unpresentable parts are treated with greater modesty, 24 which our more presentable parts do not require. But God has so composed the body, giving greater honor to the part that lacked it, 25 that there may be no division in the body, but that the members may have the same care for one another. 26 If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together.
1 Corinthians 12:21-26 (ESV)

Application by Rod Matoon

a. The Problem of Comparison

12 For we are not bold to class or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. 2 Corinthians 10:12 (NASB)

 b. The Problem with Confidence

18 Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18 (ESV)

14 I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:14 (ESV)

c. The Problem of Covetousness

15 And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” Luke 12:15 (ESV)

 d. The Problem of their Conclusions

 11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. Philippians 4:11 (ESV)

 5 . . . be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)

e. The Problem with their Commitment

The Metaphor of the Body of Christ

1 Corinthians 12:12-16

1. The solidarity of Christ’s Church as seen in the body metaphor
12 For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ . . . 14 For the body does not consist of one member but of many. 1 Corinthians 12:12; 14 (ESV)

Recalls the question:
13 Is Christ divided? . . . 1 Corinthians 1:13 (ESV)

16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? 17 Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (ESV)

2. The Spiritual Baptism of Christ’s Church as seen in the body metaphor
13 For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one body . . . 1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV)

18 . . . be filled with the Spirit, Ephesians 5:18 (ESV)

3. The Inclusiveness of Christ’s Church as seen in the body metaphor
13 . . . Jews or Greeks, slaves or free—and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
1 Corinthians 12:13 (ESV)

27 For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:27-28 (ESV)

Jesus body and the Temple:
19 Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up.” 20 . . . 21 But he was speaking about the temple of his body. John 2:19-21 (ESV)

The body is to be offered to God in worship:
1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Romans 12:1 (ESV)

The Spirit who inhabits the temple leads it to worship:
16 Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?
17 If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 (ESV)

Unity dominates diversity and makes diversity genuinely meaningful and constructive (Garland)

The Gift List: 1 Corinthians 12:7-11

The Gift List (1 Corinthians 12:7-11)

1. The Design of Spiritual Gifts
7  To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 1 Corinthians 12:7 (ESV)

28   “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. 29  Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit.
Joel 2:28-29 (ESV)

29  But Moses said to him, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the LORD’s people were prophets, that the LORD would put his Spirit on them!” Numbers 11:29 (ESV)

2. The Dimensions of Spiritual Gifts
8  For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit,9  to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10  to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 1 Corinthians 12:8-10 (ESV)

6  Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; 7  if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; 8  the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness. Romans 12:6-8 (ESV)

Prophesies are to be evaluated:
21  but test everything; hold fast what is good. 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (ESV)

Tongues are spoken languages:
4  And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2:4 (ESV)

3. The Determination of Spiritual Gifts
11  All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills. 1 Corinthians 12:11 (ESV)

The Allotment of Spiritual Gifts: 1 Cor. 12:4-6

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Deuteronomy 6:4 (ESV)

4 . . .  “there is no God but one . . .  for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. 1 Corinthians 8:4; 6 (ESV)

1. The allotment of grace gifts are by the Holy Spirit
4 Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit… 1 Corinthians 12:5 (ESV)

6 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us . . .  Romans 12:6 (NIV)

2. The grace gifts should be practiced with a Christ-like attitude.
5 and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; 1 Corinthians 12:5 (ESV)

10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)

13 For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. 14 For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5:13–14 (ESV)

3. The result of grace gifts are because of God’s empowerment in a person’s life.
6 and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.
1 Corinthians 12:6 (ESV)

31 so that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:31 (ESV)

11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:11 (ESV)

The Lure of Spirituality: 1 Corinthians 12:1-3

1. A present discussion of being spiritual.
1 Now concerning spiritual gifts, brothers, I do not want you to be uninformed. 1 Corinthians 12:1 (ESV)

Now concerning what comes from the Spirit: brothers, I do not want you to be unaware.
1 Corinthians 12:1 (HCSB)

15 The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. 1 Corinthians 2:15 (ESV)

12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places Ephesians 6:12 (ESV).

2 If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.
1 Corinthians 8:2 (ESV)

3 for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way? 1 Corinthians 3:3 (ESV)

2. A past distortion of being spiritual.
2 You know that when you were pagans you were led astray to mute idols, however you were led.
1 Corinthians 12:2 (ESV)

1 And you were dead in the trespasses and sins 2 in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— 3 among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind.
Ephesians 2:1-3 (ESV)

32 and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets. 33 For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints, 1 Corinthians 14:32-33 (ESV)

1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1 (ESV)

3. A proven distinctive of being spiritual.
3 Therefore I want you to understand that no one speaking in the Spirit of God ever says “Jesus is accursed!” and no one can say “Jesus is Lord” except in the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 12:3 (ESV)

2 By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already. 1 John 4:2-3 (ESV)

32 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls on the name of the LORD shall be saved . . . Joel 2:32 (ESV)

21 And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’
Acts 2:21 (ESV)

9 because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved . . . 13 For “everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Romans 10:9; 13 (ESV)

23 but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles,
1 Corinthians 1:23 (ESV)

13 When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth . . . 14 He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. John 16:13-14 (ESV)

Taking the Lord's Supper in a Worthy Manner:

1 Corinthians 11:17-34

1. The selfishness of their observance
17 But in the following instructions I do not commend you, because when you come together it is not for the better but for the worse. 18 For, in the first place, when you come together as a church, I hear that there are divisions among you. And I believe it in part, 19 for there must be factions among you in order that those who are genuine among you may be recognized. 20 When you come together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat. 21 For in eating, each one goes ahead with his own meal. One goes hungry, another gets drunk. 22 What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not.
1 Corinthians 11:17–22 (ESV)

2. The symbolism of the ordinance

23 For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body, which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.
1 Corinthians 11:23–26 (ESV) 

3. The seriousness of their offence
27 Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Let a person examine himself, then, and so eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For anyone who eats and drinks without discerning the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died. 31 But if we judged ourselves truly, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world. 33 So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another— 34 if anyone is hungry, let him eat at home—so that when you come together it will not be for judgment. About the other things I will give directions when I come.
1 Corinthians 11:27–34 (ESV)

First, Christians should examine themselves, not to find reasons they are unworthy, but to find evidence of a repentant heart—evidence that grace is at work. (S.T. Um)

Second, partaking of the Lord’s Supper is to discern the Lord’s body in the process (11:29). It means we recognize that the elements symbolize the body and blood of Christ and salvation comes only from his death on the cross (Roger Ellsworth)

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV)

Third, a person must “judge the body rightly” (1 Cor. 11:29) . . . the context suggests that Paul is referring to treating the corporate “body of Christ,” the church, in a respectful and dignified manner.

Fourth, the observers must “wait for one another” (11:33). Each member of the church must look out for the interests of others.

Fifth, in closing, Paul accompanies his strong warning with a comforting promise. Instead of becoming weak and sick or dying, they will experience the blessing of the cup as they fellowship with God and one another around this sacred Table (10:16). (Chuck Swindoll)

Worship Traditions: 1 Corinthians 11:1-16

2 Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you. 1 Corinthians 11:2 (ESV)

1. Honor and shame
3 But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head, 5 but every wife who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, since it is the same as if her head were shaven. 6 For if a wife will not cover her head, then she should cut her hair short. But since it is disgraceful for a wife to cut off her hair or shave her head, let her cover her head. 1 Corinthians 11:3-6 (ESV)

8 . . . Philip the evangelist . . . 9 He had four unmarried daughters, who prophesied. Acts 21:8-9 (ESV)

2. The created order
7 For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. 8 For man was not made from woman, but woman from man. 9 Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. 10 That is why a wife ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of woman; 12 for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God. 1 Corinthians 11:7-12 (ESV)

18 Then the LORD God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” Genesis 2:18 (ESV)

3. A natural observation
13 Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a wife to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair it is a disgrace for him, 15 but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering. 16 If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God. 1 Corinthians 11:13-16 (ESV)

26 Greet all the brothers with a holy kiss. 1 Thessalonians 5:26 (ESV)

Faithful Decisions: 1 Corinthians 10:23-11:1

1. The principle in making faithful decisions.
23 “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. 1 Corinthians 10:23 (ESV)

12 “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything. 1 Corinthians 6:12 (ESV)

2. The priority in making faithful decisions.
24 Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor. . . . 32 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, 33 just as I try to please everyone in everything I do, not seeking my own advantage, but that of many, that they may be saved. 1 Corinthians 10:24; 32-33 (ESV)

12 Then the disciples came and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” Matthew 15:12 (ESV)

45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 (ESV)

3. The permissiveness in making faithful decisions.
25 Eat whatever is sold in the meat market without raising any question on the ground of conscience. 26 For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.” 27 If one of the unbelievers invites you to dinner and you are disposed to go, eat whatever is set before you without raising any question on the ground of conscience. 28 But if someone says to you, “This has been offered in sacrifice,” then do not eat it, for the sake of the one who informed you, and for the sake of conscience—1 Corinthians 10:25-28 (ESV)

1 The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein,
Psalm 24:1 (ESV)

14 (for you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God), 15 lest you make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land, and when they whore after their gods and sacrifice to their gods and you are invited, you eat of his sacrifice, Exodus 34:14-15 (ESV)

4. The perspective in making faithful decisions.
29 I do not mean your conscience, but his. For why should my liberty be determined by someone else’s conscience?

30 If I partake with thankfulness, why am I denounced because of that for which I give thanks?
1 Corinthians 10:29-30 (ESV)

5. The praise in making faithful decisions.
31 So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31 (ESV)

6. The pattern of faithful decisions (11:1)
Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (ESV)

3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV)

Logic and the Lord's Supper

1 Corinthians 10:14-22

1. We should flee from sin.
14 Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry. 1 Corinthians 10:14 (ESV)

2. We should wisely implement biblical principles to evaluate decisions.
15 I speak as to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say. 1 Corinthians 10:15 (ESV)

3. Observing the Lord’s Supper indicates our union with Christ and the benefits we receive through His atoning death.
16 The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? . . . 18 Consider the people of Israel: are not those who eat the sacrifices participants in the altar? 1 Corinthians 10:16; 18 (ESV); Deuteronomy 16:5-6

18 Therefore not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood. Hebrews 9:18 (ESV)

11 “And this is the law of the sacrifice of peace offerings that one may offer to the LORD . . . 16 But if the sacrifice of his offering is a vow offering or a freewill offering, it shall be eaten on the day that he offers his sacrifice, and on the next day what remains of it shall be eaten. Leviticus 7:11; 16 (ESV)

4. Observing the Lord’s Supper unites the assembled saints as one body in Christ.
17 Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
1 Corinthians 10:17 (ESV)

5. Worshiping an idol is tantamount to worshiping a demon.
19 What do I imply then? That food offered to idols is anything, or that an idol is anything? 20 No, I imply that what pagans sacrifice they offer to demons and not to God. I do not want you to be participants with demons. 1 Corinthians 10:19-20 (ESV)

17 They sacrificed to demons that were no gods, to gods they had never known, to new gods that had come recently, whom your fathers had never dreaded. Deuteronomy 32:17 (ESV)

36 They served their idols, which became a snare to them. 37 They sacrificed their sons and their daughters to the demons; Psalm 106:36-37 (ESV); Revelation 9:20

6. The worship of God must be mutually exclusive to any other form of devotion.
21 You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons. 1 Corinthians 10:21 (ESV)

12 But you profane it when you say that the Lord’s table is polluted, and its fruit, that is, its food may be despised. Malachi 1:12 (ESV)

7. To show devotion to anything else besides God provokes Him to jealousy.
22 . . . Are we stronger than he? 1 Corinthians 10:22 (ESV)

14 (for you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God) Exodus 34:14 (ESV)

8. We should wisely consider our disposition before the all-powerful God. Proverbs 4:14

The Reality of Temptation: 1 Corinthians 10:12-13

1.The Sobriety about temptation
12 Therefore let anyone who thinks that he stands take heed lest he fall. 1 Corinthians 10:12 (ESV)

12 Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. Proverbs 26:12 (ESV)

5 Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways. Haggai 1:5 (ESV)

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! 24 And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting! Psalm 139:23-24 (ESV)

2. The commonality of temptation
13 No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man . . . 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)

15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. 1 John 2:15-16 (ESV)

3. God’s faithfulness in temptation
13 . . . God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability. . .
1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)

6 And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6 (ESV)

3 His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, 2 Peter 1:3 (ESV)

21 And he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.” Job 1:21 (ESV)

4. The escape from temptation
13 . . . but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape . . . 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)

1 Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 And after fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” 4 But he answered, “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:1-4 (ESV)

38 Watch and pray that you may not enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” Mark 14:38 (ESV)

5. Persevering through temptation13 . . . that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ESV)

13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Matthew 6:13 (ESV)

The Example of Unbelieving Israel and Idolatry

1 Corinthians 10:1-10

1. The privileges of unbelieving Israel
1 For I do not want you to be unaware, brothers, that our fathers were all under the cloud, and all passed through the sea, 2 and all were baptized into Moses in the cloud and in the sea, 3 and all ate the same spiritual food, 4 and all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual Rock that followed them, and the Rock was Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:1-4 (ESV)

22 And the people of Israel went into the midst of the sea on dry ground . . . 24 And in the morning watch the LORD in the pillar of fire and of cloud looked down on the Egyptian forces and threw the Egyptian forces into a panic, Exodus 14:22-24 (ESV)

4 “The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he. Deuteronomy 32:4 (ESV)

2. The punishment for unbelieving Israel
5 Nevertheless, with most of them God was not pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
1 Corinthians 10:5 (ESV)

3. The pattern of unbelieving Israel
6 Now these things took place as examples for us, that we might not desire evil as they did . . .
11 Now these things happened to them as an example, but they were written down for our instruction, on whom the end of the ages has come. 1 Corinthians 10:6; 11 (ESV)

4. The perversion of unbelieving Israel
7 Do not be idolaters as some of them were; as it is written, “The people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play.” 8 We must not indulge in sexual immorality as some of them did, and twenty-three thousand fell in a single day. 9 We must not put Christ to the test, as some of them did and were destroyed by serpents, 10 nor grumble, as some of them did and were destroyed by the Destroyer. 1 Corinthians 10:7-10 (ESV)

6 And they rose up early the next day and offered burnt offerings and brought peace offerings. And the people sat down to eat and drink and rose up to play. Exodus 32:6 (ESV)

2 Therefore the people quarreled with Moses and said, “Give us water to drink.” And Moses said to them, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test the LORD?” Exodus 17:2 (ESV)

14 But they had a wanton craving in the wilderness, and put God to the test in the desert; Psalm 106:14 (ESV)

1 Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1 (ESV)

17 Brethren, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. Philippians 3:17 (NASB)

The Christian Race: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27

1. The objective of the Christian race
24 Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. 1 Corinthians 9:24 (ESV)

2. The discipline of the Christian race
25 Every athlete exercises self-control in all things . . . 27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, . . . 1 Corinthians 9:25; 27 (ESV)

3. The reward of the Christian race
25 . . . They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. 1 Corinthians 9:25 (ESV)

4. The focus of the Christian race
26 So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. 1 Corinthians 9:26 (ESV)

5. The disqualification of the Christian race
27 But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. 1 Corinthians 9:27 (ESV)

10 Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. 2 Peter 1:10 (ESV)

11 For no one can lay a foundation other than that 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 one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. 14 If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. 15 If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire. 1 Corinthians 3:11-15 (ESV)

7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7 (ESV)

Paul's Evangelistic Strategy: All Things to All People

(1 Corinthians 9:19-23)

1. The servant principle of Paul’s evangelistic strategy
19 For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them. 1 Corinthians 9:19 (ESV)

43 But it shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant, 44 and whoever would be first among you must be slave of all. 45 For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:43-45 (ESV)

8 Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ Philippians 3:8 (ESV)

2. The accommodation principle of Paul’s evangelistic strategy

20 To the Jews I became as a Jew, in order to win Jews. To those under the law I became as one under the law (though not being myself under the law) that I might win those under the law. 21 To those outside the law I became as one outside the law (not being outside the law of God but under the law of Christ) that I might win those outside the law. 22 To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.
1 Corinthians 9:20-22 (ESV)

32 Give no offense to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, 1 Corinthians 10:32 (ESV)

10 For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols? 1 Corinthians 8:10 (ESV)

27 But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 1 Corinthians 1:27 (ESV)

19 The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.”
Matthew 11:19 (ESV)

3. The partnership principle in Paul’s evangelistic strategy
23 I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.
1 Corinthians 9:23 (ESV)

 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. Philippians 2:7 (ESV)

Expendable Rights: 1 Corinthians 9:1-18

1. Paul’s position to claim his rights
1 Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are not you my workmanship in the Lord? 2 If to others I am not an apostle, at least I am to you, for you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 9:1-2 (ESV)

2. Paul’s proof for his rights
3 This is my defense to those who would examine me. 4 Do we not have the right to eat and drink? 5 Do we not have the right to take along a believing wife, as do the other apostles and the brothers of the Lord and Cephas? 6 Or is it only Barnabas and I who have no right to refrain from working for a living? 7 Who serves as a soldier at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard without eating any of its fruit? Or who tends a flock without getting some of the milk? 8 Do I say these things on human authority? Does not the Law say the same? 9 For it is written in the Law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle an ox when it treads out the grain.” Is it for oxen that God is concerned? 10 Does he not certainly speak for our sake? It was written for our sake, because the plowman should plow in hope and the thresher thresh in hope of sharing in the crop. 11 If we have sown spiritual things among you, is it too much if we reap material things from you? 12 If others share this rightful claim on you, do not we even more? . . . 13 Do you not know that those who are employed in the temple service get their food from the temple, and those who serve at the altar share in the sacrificial offerings? 14 In the same way, the Lord commanded that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:3-14 (ESV)

4 “You shall not muzzle an ox when it is treading out the grain. Deuteronomy 25:4 (ESV); Deuteronomy 23:25

21 “To the Levites I have given every tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service that they do, their service in the tent of meeting, Numbers 18:18; 21 (ESV)

7 And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the laborer deserves his wages. Do not go from house to house. Luke 10:7 (ESV)

3. Paul’s principles in forsaking his rights
12 . . . Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ . . . 15 But I have made no use of any of these rights, nor am I writing these things to secure any such provision. For I would rather die than have anyone deprive me of my ground for boasting. 16 For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! 17 For if I do this of my own will, I have a reward, but if not of my own will, I am still entrusted with a stewardship. 18 What then is my reward? That in my preaching I may present the gospel free of charge, so as not to make full use of my right in the gospel. 1 Corinthians 9:12; 15-18 (ESV)

7 “Will any one of you who has a servant plowing or keeping sheep say to him when he has come in from the field, ‘Come at once and recline at table’ . . . 9 Does he thank the servant because he did what was commanded? 10 So you also, when you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’” Luke 17:7-10 (ESV);
Acts 26:15-18; 1 Timothy 5:17-18

1 “Come, everyone who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Isaiah 55:1 (ESV)

When "Rights" are Wrong: 1 Corinthians 8

18 Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. 1 Corinthians 3:18 (ESV)

28 For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay on you no greater burden than these requirements: 29 that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols . . . Acts 15:28-29 (ESV)

1. The superiority of love over “rights”
1 Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that “all of us possess knowledge.” This “knowledge” puffs up, but love builds up. 2 If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know. 3 But if anyone loves God, he is known by God. 1 Corinthians 8:1-3 (ESV)

10 See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.” Jeremiah 1:10 (ESV)

9 But now that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and worthless elementary principles of the world, whose slaves you want to be once more? Galatians 4:9 (ESV)

2. The knowledge of the weak affects “rights”
4 Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that “an idol has no real existence,” and that “there is no God but one.” 5 For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth—as indeed there are many “gods” and many “lords”— 6 yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist. 7 However, not all possess this knowledge. But some, through former association with idols, eat food as really offered to an idol, and their conscience, being weak, is defiled. 8 Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do. 1 Corinthians 8:4-8 (ESV)

4 “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Deuteronomy 6:4 (ESV)

17 For the LORD your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great . . . Deuteronomy 10:17 (ESV)

3. The destructive stumbling block caused by “rights”
9 But take care that this right of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. 10 For if anyone sees you who have knowledge eating in an idol’s temple, will he not be encouraged, if his conscience is weak, to eat food offered to idols? 11 And so by your knowledge this weak person is destroyed, the brother for whom Christ died. 12 Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. 13 Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble. 1 Corinthians 8:9-13 (ESV)

32 Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as if it were based on works. They have stumbled over the stumbling stone, Romans 9:32 (ESV)

6 but whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone fastened around his neck and to be drowned in the depth of the sea. Matthew 18:6 (ESV)

6 For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:6 (ESV)

Counseling for Singles: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40

A consideration in view of the present distress in relation to marriage

25 Now concerning the betrothed, I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. 26 I think that in view of the present distress it is good for a person to remain as he is. 27 Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free from a wife? Do not seek a wife... 1 Corinthians 7:25-27 (ESV)

2. A consideration on general cares of this life in relation to eternity and marriage
28 But if you do marry, you have not sinned, and if a betrothed woman marries, she has not sinned. Yet those who marry will have worldly troubles, and I would spare you that. 29 This is what I mean, brothers: the appointed time has grown very short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none, 30 and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods,31 and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away. 1 Corinthians 7:28-31 (ESV)

18 But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.’ 19 And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.’ 20 And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ Luke 14:16-20 (ESV); Luke 17:26–27

2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. Colossians 3:2 (ESV)

4. A consideration of bodily desires for marriage
36 If anyone thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his betrothed, if his passions are strong, and it has to be, let him do as he wishes: let them marry—it is no sin. 37 But whoever is firmly established in his heart, being under no necessity but having his desire under control, and has determined this in his heart, to keep her as his betrothed, he will do well. 1 Corinthians 7:36-37 (ESV)

his virgin daughter, . . . 1 Corinthians 7:36 (NASB95)

the virgin he is engaged to . . . 1 Corinthians 7:36 (NIV)

8 To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am. 9 But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. 1 Corinthians 7:6-9 (ESV)

5. A consideration of personal preference for marriage

38 So then he who marries his betrothed does well, and he who refrains from marriage will do even better. 1 Corinthians 7:38 (ESV)

31 “Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.” 32 This mystery is profound, and I am saying that it refers to Christ and the church . . . Ephesians 5:31-33 (ESV)

6. A consideration of death and remarriage
39 A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord. 40 Yet in my judgment she is happier if she remains as she is. And I think that I too have the Spirit of God. 1 Corinthians 7:39-40 (ESV)

33 But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

Getting the Most out of our Lot in Life

1 Corinthians 7:17-24 (Title by Chuck Swindoll)

1. Bloom where the Lord has planted you.
17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches. 1 Corinthians 7:17 (ESV)

2. Your lot in life has nothing to do with your salvation
18 Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision.
1 Corinthians 7:18 (ESV)

28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 (ESV)

3. You can honor God no matter where you are.
19 For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God. 1 Corinthians 7:19 (ESV)

15 For neither circumcision counts for anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.
Galatians 6:15 (ESV)

4. Do not fret if your circumstances inhibit your ability to serve God in the manner you want.
20 Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called. 21 Were you a bondservant when called? Do not be concerned about it . . . 1 Corinthians 7:20-21 (ESV)

5. If you have an opportunity, better your circumstances
21 . . . (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.) 1 Corinthians 7:21 (ESV)

6. We gain our identity not from our place in the world but in our relationship with Christ.
22 For he who was called in the Lord as a bondservant is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a bondservant of Christ. 1 Corinthians 7:22 (ESV)

7. Our Loyalties lie wholly with the one who purchased us, Christ.
23 You were bought with a price; do not become bondservants of men. 1 Corinthians 7:23 (ESV)

18 knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. 1 Peter 1:18-19 (ESV)

8. With God, we can persevere through any circumstance in which He has providentially placed us.
24 So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
1 Corinthians 7:24 (ESV)

28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 (ESV)

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, 7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:6-7 (ESV)

1 O LORD, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. 2 But I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. 3 O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time forth and forevermore. Psalm 131:1-3 (ESV)