The human body is amazing. Each part depends on the other parts. We have all experienced how something
as simple as a toothache can affect other parts of the body. While every part has an important role to play, no
part is independent. All parts must work together so that the body can function well as a whole. So, it is no
surprise that Paul often describes the church as Christ's body. Followers of Jesus are interrelated with every
other person in the body of Christ. Though each believer may be unique, each believer is also dependent on
the rest. Like interrelated body parts, church members must work together in unity and oneness of purpose
to help bring about the coming of God's kingdom.
One Body, Many Parts
Part 20 >>
October 10, 2021 • Chan Mitchell
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Imperfect Church
Imperfection that Brings Hope
December 5, 2021 • Chan Mitchell
1 Corinthians 16 concludes Paul's long letter to the church in Corinth. In this final chapter, Paul offers some practical applications to help maintain unity in the Body. He instructs them on how to prepare a special collection of funds for needy Christians in Jerusalem. He describes his plan to visit them in person after wrapping up his ministry in Ephesus and stopping by churches in Macedonia. He reveals that Timothy and other leaders will be visiting them soon. Finally, Paul commends a team of faithful servants from Corinth that came to minister to him. Paul’s final words in the letter are a declaration of love for all.
Mystery and Victory
November 28, 2021 • Chan Mitchell
Our work in the Lord is not a waste of time. Our service is not in vain. Our worship is not a waste. Because of the resurrection, what we give for the cause of Christ and His kingdom has eternal value. 1 Corinthians 15:50–58 powerfully concludes Paul's teaching on the resurrection of Christ and His believers. When the last trumpet blasts and Christ returns for those who belong to Him, all believers in Jesus, living and dead, will be transformed into the glorified, eternal bodies God has promised us. Death will be defeated forever, never to hurt anyone again. Sin brings death, and the law is the power of sin, but God has given us the victory over death by forgiving our sin through faith in Jesus and by His grace.
The New Body
November 21, 2021 • Chan Mitchell
Just as in the days of the Apostle Paul, there seems to be a growing skepticism today around Jesus, His death and resurrection. However, few passages are more helpful in restoring our confidence than 1 Corinthians 15:35-39 and its promise of resurrection life. Paul makes a strong argument to skeptics in Corinth by drawing truth from creation in the way a seed comes to life, and in the way dust becomes glory. For those who trust in Christ, Paul says what is buried in the dust will be resurrected in the likeness of Christ. Utilizing a variety of analogies, Paul describes the indescribable - namely the way in which children of Adam formed from the dust of earth are raised to new life, given glorified bodies, and share in Christ’s heavenly glory.