Gospel Reading Plan: John 19-21
Paul’s First Letter to
the Corinthians: DAY 6
READ 1 Corinthians 4
In your journal, write
down the things that stick out to you from today’s Bible reading. Respond to
what God shows you as you feel led.
In lieu of all the talk of division in the church, Paul goes
on to address the deeper issue of pride in the Corinthian church. While arguing
over leaders, they have also come to judge their leaders, even Paul! In doing
this they have gone beyond the Scriptures (v 6), acting as though their actions
are right when Scripture would prove otherwise. It seems that the Corinthian
believers have become prideful in what they have – their blessings,
opportunities and abilities – forgetting that everything is a gift from God.
They act independent, as though they don’t need a spiritual leader, when in
truth, they do not have the humility or stamina to do the work of an apostle,
as Paul makes clear in verses 9-13.
As their spiritual father who delivered the gospel to
them, Paul calls the Corinthians to imitate him, and he is definitely worth
imitating as he truly understood the essence of a surrendered life.
PRAYER AND MEDITATION
1.
Much Christian growth actually comes by
imitating other believers, even though we all come with our imperfections. Are
you choosing godly people to imitate? How specifically do these people help you
become more Christ-like?
2.
How does the Apostle Paul’s life
demonstrate humility? Ask God to show you where you need to confess pride and
grow in humility.
3.
In the final verse of the chapter Paul
gives a warning coupled with a choice. This is essentially the same choice
given us when we stand before the judgement seat of Christ. The choices we make
each day, will determine whether we will be rebuked or whether our Lord will
say, “Well done!” Ask God to help you make good choices today. In each decision
you make, whether it is about your spending, attitude, relationships, etc.,
choose to invite Jesus into the process.
