Tag: holiness

Rev. Cecil Thorn

In 1 Corinthians 1–7, the Apostle Paul addresses several critical issues affecting the early church in Corinth, including divisions, immorality, and spiritual immaturity. Paul begins by emphasizing the importance of unity in Christ, warning against factions within the church and urging believers to focus on the gospel rather than human leaders. In chapters 1 and 2, Paul highlights the foolishness of worldly wisdom in contrast to the power of the cross, which represents God’s ultimate wisdom and salvation. He calls the Corinthians to live holy lives, with a focus on sanctification and loving one another, while also addressing the moral challenges they face, particularly in sexual purity. Chapter 3 further rebukes their spiritual immaturity, urging them to build their lives on the foundation of Christ. The theme of humility in leadership is emphasized in chapter 4, where Paul encourages leaders to model Christ’s sacrificial example.

In 1 Thessalonians 4–5, Paul provides practical exhortations to the believers, focusing on how to live in a way that pleases God while remaining vigilant in anticipation of Christ’s return. In chapter 4, Paul encourages the Thessalonians to live holy lives, particularly in matters of sexual purity, and emphasizes the importance of brotherly love. He offers comfort regarding the resurrection of the dead, assuring the believers that those who have died in Christ will be resurrected when Jesus returns. In chapters 5 and 6, Paul addresses moral issues, including sexual immorality and disputes among believers, urging them to live in purity and integrity. Finally, in chapter 7, Paul gives practical advice on marriage, singleness, and faithfulness, calling believers to honor God in every aspect of their lives. The overarching message is one of unity, spiritual growth, and living out the gospel in everyday conduct.

Both 1 Corinthians 1–7 and 1 Thessalonians 4–5 stress the importance of holiness and unity in the Christian community, while offering encouragement in the face of difficulties. Paul’s teachings in these letters are foundational for understanding how to live faithfully in a fallen world, balancing personal conduct with a corporate commitment to Christ. The call to holiness, humility, and watchfulness is central to both epistles, urging believers to remain focused on their relationship with God while awaiting the return of Christ. These letters offer timeless guidance on how to navigate the challenges of the Christian life with hope, humility, and a commitment to living out the truth of the gospel.

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Introduction to 1 Corinthians 1–7: Exploring Unity, Wisdom, and Holiness

The first seven chapters of 1 Corinthians address a variety of issues facing the early church, including divisions, immorality, and disputes, while also providing profound insights into the nature of Christian unity, wisdom, and personal holiness. In his letter, the Apostle Paul seeks to guide the Corinthian believers toward a deeper understanding of how to live faithfully in a divided world. These chapters contain both doctrinal teaching and practical exhortations that remain highly relevant for believers today.

This exploration will cover key themes and verses, unpacking Paul’s teachings about unity in Christ, the wisdom of the cross, spiritual maturity, and godly living. Through this study, we will also delve into important issues such as church discipline, the sanctity of marriage, and the call to live lives worthy of the gospel. Additionally, we will examine insights from respected commentators to deepen our understanding of these passages and their application to our lives.

The insights shared here aim to equip believers to live out their faith in a way that reflects both the transformative power of the gospel and the wisdom that comes from God alone. Let’s begin our study of 1 Corinthians 1–7, a rich and timeless message for the church.

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1 Corinthians 1: Unity in Christ and Wisdom of the Cross

Key Points:

1. Greeting and Thanksgiving(1 Corinthians 1:1–9):
   “I give thanks to my God always for you because of the grace of God that was given you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Corinthians 1:4, ESV)
   • Paul acknowledges God’s work in the Corinthian church, reminding them of their calling and spiritual gifts.
   Commentary:
   • Matthew Henry: Paul begins with gratitude to reinforce the Corinthians’ identity in Christ despite their issues.
   • NICNT: This opening frames unity in the church as rooted in God’s grace, not human merit.
2. Divisions in the Church(1 Corinthians 1:10–17):
   “I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you.” (1 Corinthians 1:10, ESV)
   • Paul warns against factions forming around human leaders like Apollos and himself, urging unity in Christ.
   Commentary:
   • Guzik: Divisions detract from the centrality of Christ’s work on the cross.
   • MacArthur: Unity in the gospel is essential for the church’s witness.
3. Wisdom and the Cross(1 Corinthians 1:18–31):
   “For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18, ESV)
   • God’s wisdom, revealed in the cross, contrasts with human wisdom.
   Commentary:
   • EBC: The cross undermines human pride, revealing divine wisdom and power.
   • Matthew Henry: God’s way of salvation exalts Christ and humbles man.

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1 Corinthians 2: Spiritual Wisdom

Key Points:

1. Paul’s Preaching(1 Corinthians 2:1–5):
   “I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2, ESV)
   • Paul emphasizes reliance on the Holy Spirit over eloquent rhetoric.
   Commentary:
   • NICNT: Paul’s method prioritized the Spirit’s power to reveal truth over persuasive human wisdom.
   • MacArthur: The gospel’s power lies in its content, not in the skill of its presentation.
2. Wisdom from the Spirit(1 Corinthians 2:6–16):
   “Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God.” (1 Corinthians 2:12, ESV)
   • Spiritual wisdom is accessible only through the Spirit of God.
   Commentary:
   • Guzik: True wisdom comes by revelation, not human reasoning.
   • Matthew Henry: The Spirit enables believers to discern and embrace God’s mysteries.

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1 Corinthians 3: Divisions and Building God’s Church

Key Points:

1. Spiritual Immaturity(1 Corinthians 3:1–4):
   “For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh?” (1 Corinthians 3:3, ESV)
   • Paul rebukes the Corinthians’ worldly attitudes and divisions.
   Commentary:
   • EBC: Jealousy and factionalism are signs of spiritual immaturity.
   • MacArthur: Maturity in Christ demands unity and selflessness.
2. God’s Workers and Temple(1 Corinthians 3:5–17):
   “Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16, ESV)
   • Believers are God’s temple, and church leaders are co-workers in building it.
   Commentary:
   • Matthew Henry: God’s temple requires purity and reverence.
   • NICNT: Leaders should work humbly, knowing their accountability to God.
3. Avoid Human Pride(1 Corinthians 3:18–23):
   “Let no one boast in men. For all things are yours.” (1 Corinthians 3:21, ESV)
   • Paul exhorts the Corinthians to see all things as God’s gift.
   Commentary:
   • Guzik: Pride in human leaders undermines God’s ownership of the church.
   • MacArthur: Believers should glory only in Christ.

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1 Corinthians 4: Apostolic Example

Key Points:

1. Servants of Christ(1 Corinthians 4:1–5):
   “Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2, ESV)
   • Apostles are stewards accountable to God for their ministry.
   Commentary:
   • Matthew Henry: Faithfulness is the foremost qualification for God’s servants.
   • EBC: Apostles’ primary accountability is to God, not human judgment.
2. Humility in Leadership(1 Corinthians 4:6–13):
   “We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world.” (1 Corinthians 4:13, ESV)
   • Paul contrasts his sacrificial leadership with the Corinthians’ arrogance.
   Commentary:
   • MacArthur: True apostleship reflects humility and Christlike suffering.
   • NICNT: Paul uses his hardships to challenge the Corinthians’ self-centeredness.

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1 Corinthians 5: Church Discipline

Key Points:

1. Immorality in the Church(1 Corinthians 5:1–8):
   “You are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh.” (1 Corinthians 5:5, ESV)
   • Paul demands discipline for a case of gross sexual immorality.
   Commentary:
   • PNTC: Discipline aims to restore the sinner and protect the church’s holiness.
   • Matthew Henry: Tolerating sin endangers the spiritual health of the community.
2. Purging Sin(1 Corinthians 5:9–13):
   “Purge the evil person from among you.” (1 Corinthians 5:13, ESV)
   • The church must separate itself from unrepentant sin.
   Commentary:
   • MacArthur: Purity in the church requires courageous confrontation of sin.
   • Guzik: The church reflects Christ’s holiness through discipline.

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1 Corinthians 6: Lawsuits and Sexual Purity

Key Points:

1. Lawsuits Among Believers(1 Corinthians 6:1–11):
   “The unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9, ESV)
   • Paul criticizes believers for airing disputes before unbelieving judges.
   Commentary:
   • NICNT: Resolving disputes internally protects the church’s witness.
   • MacArthur: Believers should model reconciliation, not division.
2. Honor God with Your Body(1 Corinthians 6:12–20):
   “You are not your own, for you were bought with a price.” (1 Corinthians 6:19–20, ESV)
   • Sexual sin dishonors God’s temple, which is the believer’s body.
   Commentary:
   • EBC: The body belongs to God and must reflect His holiness.
   • Guzik: Paul affirms the believer’s sacred identity as God’s possession.

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1 Corinthians 7: Marriage and Singleness

Key Points:

1. Marriage Principles(1 Corinthians 7:1–16):
   “Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time.” (1 Corinthians 7:5, ESV)
   • Marriage should reflect mutual care and unity.
   Commentary:
   • MacArthur: Paul balances practical advice with a high view of marriage.
   • EBC: Faithfulness in marriage reflects faithfulness to God.
2. Living as You Are Called(1 Corinthians 7:17–24):
   “Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called.” (1 Corinthians 7:20, ESV)
   • Believers should serve God faithfully in their current circumstances.
   Commentary:
   • Matthew Henry: God’s call sanctifies every life stage and vocation.
   • NICNT: Contentment in Christ enables fruitful service.

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Introduction of 1 Thessalonians 4–5: Practical instructions for living a life that pleases God

In the closing chapters of Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, we see his heartfelt pastoral care and deep theological teaching converge. Chapters 4 and 5 provide practical instructions for living a life that pleases God while offering hope for the future return of Christ. These chapters balance encouragement, exhortation, and eschatological teaching, addressing both individual conduct and the corporate life of the church.

This presentation dives deeply into the text, offering the full ESV scripture, key points, and religious commentary to unpack the richness of Paul’s message. Drawing on theological insights from trusted commentators, it explores themes of sanctification, community living, and readiness for Christ’s return, emphasizing their relevance for both the early church and believers today.

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1 Thessalonians 4: A Life Pleasing to God

Key Points:

1. Living to Please God (1 Thessalonians 4:1–12)

• Scripture:
  “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality.” (1 Thessalonians 4:3, ESV)
  “Aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands.” (1 Thessalonians 4:11, ESV)
• Summary:
  Paul exhorts the Thessalonians to walk in holiness, particularly in avoiding sexual immorality, loving one another, and living responsibly.
  • Holiness is God’s will for every believer.
  • Brotherly love should grow continuously.
  • Believers are called to lead peaceful, productive lives.
• Commentary:
  • Matthew Henry: Holiness in body and spirit is the mark of true Christianity. Living peacefully demonstrates Christ’s influence to outsiders.
  • MacArthur: Sanctification includes separation from sin and devotion to God, particularly in personal relationships and daily life.

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2. The Coming of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18)

• Scripture:
  “For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16, ESV)
  “Therefore encourage one another with these words.” (1 Thessalonians 4:18, ESV)
• Summary:
  Paul provides comfort and hope regarding the resurrection, emphasizing that believers who have died will rise when Jesus returns.
  • The dead in Christ will rise first.
  • Living believers will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air.
  • This promise brings encouragement and assurance.
• Commentary:
  • EBC: This passage highlights the certainty of the resurrection and reunion with Christ, offering hope amid grief.
  • Guzik: The “rapture” reflects God’s victory over death, ensuring eternal unity with Christ for all believers.

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1 Thessalonians 5: Living in Readiness

Key Points:

1. The Day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:1–11)

• Scripture:
  “For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” (1 Thessalonians 5:2, ESV)
  “But you are not in darkness, brothers, for that day to surprise you like a thief.” (1 Thessalonians 5:4, ESV)
• Summary:
  Paul warns of the suddenness of the Lord’s return, urging believers to remain spiritually alert and prepared.
  • Unbelievers will be caught off guard.
  • Believers, as children of the light, should live vigilantly.
  • The promise of salvation through Christ ensures believers’ security.
• Commentary:
  • Matthew Henry: The suddenness of Christ’s return calls for continual spiritual readiness and faithfulness.
  • MacArthur: This passage contrasts the destiny of the saved and unsaved, encouraging believers to live with hope and anticipation.

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2. Exhortations for Christian Living (1 Thessalonians 5:12–22)

• Scripture:
  “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, ESV)
  “Abstain from every form of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:22, ESV)
• Summary:
  Paul gives practical guidance for maintaining a healthy and vibrant church community.
  • Respect church leaders.
  • Support and encourage fellow believers.
  • Cultivate joy, prayer, and gratitude.
  • Test everything, holding fast to good and rejecting evil.
• Commentary:
  • EBC: Paul’s concise exhortations promote a Christ-centered life characterized by joy and discernment.
  • Guzik: Spiritual maturity is nurtured through consistent worship, prayer, and avoidance of evil influences.

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3. Closing Benediction (1 Thessalonians 5:23–28)

• Scripture:
  “Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23, ESV)
• Summary:
  Paul concludes with a prayer for God’s sanctifying work, emphasizing His faithfulness in preserving believers until Christ’s return.
• Commentary:
  • Matthew Henry: Paul’s prayer reflects confidence in God’s ability to perfect believers for His glory.
  • MacArthur: God’s work of sanctification guarantees the ultimate preservation and glorification of believers.

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Themes and Application:

1. Hope in the Lord’s Return:
   The promise of Jesus’ return encourages holy living and offers comfort in trials.
2. Christian Community:
   Practical exhortations highlight the importance of mutual support, spiritual vigilance, and communal worship.
3. God’s Faithfulness:
   Believers can trust God to complete the work He began in them.

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My Thoughts:

The messages in 1 Corinthians 1–7 and 1 Thessalonians 4–5 provide timeless guidance for living out our Christian faith. Just as the early church needed direction, Paul’s letters offer profound insight into how believers should conduct themselves in their walk with Christ. In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses issues like division, immorality, and spiritual maturity, urging the church to remain united, holy, and grounded in the gospel. Similarly, in 1 Thessalonians, Paul emphasizes living in anticipation of Christ’s return, offering exhortations on how to live out a life of purity, love, and faithfulness, both within the church and the world.

Paul’s teachings remind us that our lives should reflect the values of the kingdom of God. In 1 Corinthians, the call to unity and love challenges us to overcome divisions and embrace humility, recognizing that we are all one in Christ. The exhortation to avoid sexual immorality and to honor God with our bodies in 1 Corinthians 6 serves as a reminder of the sacredness of our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul encourages believers to live in readiness for the Lord’s return, cultivating lives marked by prayer, thanksgiving, and mutual encouragement. These passages serve as both a warning and an encouragement, urging us to live with purpose and hope as we await Christ’s return.

As we apply these teachings to our own lives, we are reminded of the importance of how we represent Christ in our time. Our words and actions should reflect the love of Jesus Christ, bringing light to a world in need of His hope. In both letters, Paul emphasizes the necessity of living according to God’s will—through holiness, love, and readiness for His return. Let us heed these instructions and strive to represent Christ in all that we do, demonstrating His love and grace in our relationships and daily conduct. By doing so, we not only honor God but also serve as a witness to the world of His transforming power in our lives.

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