Limiting Our Liberty for the Sake of Love
Our freedom in Christ is a precious gift. However, we are called to limit the exercise of our rights at times in order to minister effectively to others. This is Paul's message in 1 Corinthians 8--9, and he supports it with his own example.
Advice for Singles and Spouses
The Bible teaches that both marriage and singleness are good gifts from God. Our decisions relating to either must be governed by God's Word. Thankfully, 1 Corinthians chapter 7 gives us divine instruction on marriage and various issues related to it.
When to Go to Court
Our impact for Christ in this world is directly tied to our being clearly distinct from the world. We cannot pursue the attitudes and pleasures of the ungodly if we want to glorify the Lord.
Church Discipline: The Missing Ingredient Today
Open, unrepentant sin in the church cannot be condoned or tolerated. It must be confronted and properly dealt with. Anything less is to bring Christ's church down to the level of the world and mute its message that Christ delivers us from sin and its power.
A Job Description for Faithful Stewards
Godly leaders are not to be a source of pride for the church--they are not to be unduly exalted. They are to be respected, however, as faithful examples and humble servants of God who answer to Him.
A Future Day of Rewards
All Christians are builders--we are building on the church's foundation in Jesus Christ. The question is this: What kind of builders are we? Are we building with ministry and works that have permanent value for the church?
Growing Up in the Faith
The Lord has given us all we need to grow and prosper in our relationship with Him. If we are not constantly and consistently growing in our understanding of God and in our commitment to Christ, we will remain spiritual infants; and that is neither natural nor desirable.
The Source of Wisdom
It is the distinct privilege of all Christians to have the Holy Spirit indwelling us, giving us greater understanding of God’s Word and spiritual discernment in all matters. This is the source of true wisdom, not the mindset of the unsaved world.
Why God Uses Nobodies
Our role in the world is not to impress people with our message but to confront them with God's message, the gospel. The thinking and wisdom of the world have no place in that. It's the gospel simply presented by humble servants that demonstrates the power of God.
Commendation Before Correction
Quarrels and divisions within the church are simply the outward expression of pride. The Corinthian church was blessed with faithful leaders and teachers, but they dishonored those servants and the Lord Himself with their self-centered attitudes.