God has called and redeemed us from a life of sin. Paul reminds us that the world is passing away and lifts us up to a higher standard. We then must evaluate our relationships from an eternal perspective. This is why Paul says that it can be considered preferable to stay single, but that marriage is the best option for most people. Unmarried people are able to better focus on the things of the Lord. A married person must devote a lot of energy to their spouse or kids. Marriage is then a distraction in some ways compared to the possibilities of an unmarried life. He calls us to understand the hard truth that our significant relationship will last until death, but after that, it will be as if we didn’t have a spouse. That is our future whether we like it or not. However, we can still have these deep emotions in this life for another regardless. Singleness has its own advantage: to be devoted to the Lord without distraction.
Singleness in Christ
November 6, 2022 • Connor Kraus • 1 Corinthians
Conclusion
February 12, 2023 • Connor Kraus • 1 Corinthians
We have finally hit the last chapter of 1 Corinthians. Paul has finished his main points but we still have a few more takeaways about being a part of God's Kingdom. The first is that we are to be good stewards and give generously. The second is to follow God's timing and being willing to adapt to it. The third is to do everything in love. The fourth is to serve others first. The fifth is that we are to be living in unity with one another. The final point is to trust in Christ. Connor goes over each of these points in depth as we wrap up the 1 Corinthians series.
Resurrection Part 2
February 5, 2023 • Connor Kraus • 1 Corinthians
How can two things which should never be connected be bridged somehow? Just look at the size and complexity of bridges going over large rivers and chasms. Just as hard to grasp is our transformation from this body to the next. Our body is to go from corrupted, dishonored, and weak to without corruption, glorified, and strong. Paul explains that for now our body is from dust and will go back to dust, but when Jesus returns, we will transform and have a body like His. This is necessary because corruption cannot inherit incorruption. Thankfully, Jesus has defeated the sting of death and makes all of this possible. Be confident in your hope. Work hard for the Lord. Find comfort in His victory.
Resurrection Part 1
January 22, 2023 • Connor Kraus • 1 Corinthians
A lot can be gained from understanding the resurrection better, especially when our culture is filled with the imagery of zombies and ghouls. The people in Corinth had a tough time understanding this part of the Gospel too. The resurrection of Christ and our own future resurrection is essential to the Christian faith however. This knowledge should affect us day to day since it should change our entire perspective in this life. The difference of the resurrection of Christ is that its power persists today and affects what has yet to come. It is up to us now to make sure other people are changed by this wonderful news.