Paul and His Apostleship “A chosen vessel of mine to bear my name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15, NKJV, other texts from NASB). By Ray Charlton These words to Ananias gave assurance that it was safe for him to go to the house where Saul of Tarsus was staying and restore his sight, which Saul had lost during his encounter with Christ. Ananias had good reason for concern since Saul had come breathing threats and murder against […]
Schisms and Divisions “For I have been informed concerning you, my brethren, by Chloe’s people, that there are quarrels among you” (1 Corinthians 1:11 NASB). by Jerry Wesol The primary focus of the Apostle Paul’s ministry was: (1) To admonish brethren to stay focused and study God’s plan and preach to all, especially the household of faith, “The Gospel of the Kingdom” message. (2) Having consecrated their all and having been given the holy Spirit from the Lord, to allow the Lord […]
The Struggle for Holiness “Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth” (1 Corinthians 5:8). By Richard Doctor Corinth was a challenge. This strategically located hub of commerce was a “rough and tumble” seaport and blue-collar city of ancient origin, noted for its low morals and licentiousness. The name “Corinthian” applied to a woman was an insult. Paul leaves us no doubt as […]
Men, Women, and Head Coverings “But to the married I give instructions, not I, but the Lord, that the wife should not leave her husband … and that the husband should not divorce his wife” (1 Corinthians 7:10,11 NASB). By Michael Costelli 1 Corinthians 7:1‑16 Citizens of the Greek culture had become depraved in their behavior. As a result, the Apostle Paul found it necessary to provide certain instructions to the Corinthian brethren. The extent to which the society had descended is […]
The Lord’s Supper “Purge out the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, even as ye are unleavened. For our passover also hath been sacrificed, even Christ” (1 Corinthians 5:7 RV). By Larry McClellan Has it seemed strange to you that the above scripture, which we use yearly in our Memorial Service, is found in the same context with “fornication as is not so much as named amongst Gentiles” (verse 1)? Paul adds in verse 8, “Therefore let us keep […]