STANDING FIRM IN THE FAITH

STANDING FIRM IN THE FAITH – HOW TO DO IT

Main Readings: 1 Co. 16:13-16, Mt. 13:44

Holding on to a position you have attained – Refers to our Sonship that guarantees God’s care and provision and our Servanthood that guarantees great and eternal rewards.

Out text is situated in Paul’s conclusion to the church at Corinth in which he had addressed issues ranging immaturity and divisions to the pride of those who are experiencing the working of the gifts of the spirit. He sums up what conduct is expected from the believer of Christ, citing contemporary examples, beginning with a family, the household of Stephanas. Although we do not hear much more of Stephanas, that Paul put him up as an example gives us confidence to study how we should live and served the promise it holds:

Be alert/ vigilant: Warning against deception – from wolves in sheepskin to unproven lifestyles. Remember to apply the S tests, with regard to conduct of yours and others:

·       Scripture Test (1Co. 4:6), that is the spirit if the letter (the letter per se kills, 2Co. 3:6)

·       Spirit Test: (1 John 4:1, 1Co. 14:29)

·       Servant-hood Test: (Mt. 20: 23-28)

Be equipped with salvation, faith, truth, righteousness, preparation of the Gospel of peace

Stand firm in the faith: Be a practitioner what is HEARD but UNSEEN (2Cor. 5:7): We are not moved by what move the people of the world: sight, feeling, and pride of life (neither by fear nor by want, Mt. 6: 31-32, 1 John 2:16)

Be brave/ courageous: Courage is the ability to face danger, difficulty, uncertainty, or pain without being overcome by fear or being deflected from a chosen course of action (Encarta). It is being proactive in advancement. The field is ripe, the call to go has come from the Lord. It is only lack of courage that can make a Christian static when these callings beckon: GO and prophesy, serve, teach, exhort, lead (1 Tim 3:1-7), show mercy, etc. (Rom. 12) Devote yourself to serving the saints/church

Be strong: Robust and sturdy – sturdy, well made, not easily damaged or broken. Wait upon the Lord in order to remain strong, being filled with the Spirit.

Do everything in love: Love is the guide of action when the law is silent, hope is lost, and faith is fully observed.

Conclusion: The first converts in Achaia were devoted to the service of the saints: Possibly this service consisted in putting their house at the disposal of the Christians at Corinth for worshiping, or in rendering special assistance in establishing intercommunication between the Corinthian church and the apostle, or other churches. Persons devoted to Christian service were worthy to be submitted to in the church. God gives grace to the humble. People who follow servants of God do not follow men – the follow God.