LOVE FOR THE LORD'S CHURCH

Most all of the churches the apostle Paul wrote letters to had issues - problems of various sorts - and the Corinthian congregation was certainly no exception. As a matter of fact, they were faced with a host of challenges, many of which were addressed by Paul.

IN chapter 15 of what we call I Corinthians, the apostle thoroughly expounded on numerous resurrection issues, particularly their denial of the general resurrection of the dead on the last day. Notice what he said regarding this matter, "Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead" (I Corinthians 15:12)? Now that is indeed a problem. So, in the next two verses, Paul minced no words regarding this damnable doctrine, declaring, "But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain." (I Corinthians 15:13-14)

Personally, it is most difficult for me to imagine how far off base the Corinthians had gotten on this very basic teaching of the New Covenant.. Their denial and misunderstanding of resurrection day was a perilous and soul threatening doctrine, and the apostle went straight to the core of the issue in a heart-felt attempt to snatch them out of the fire.

What this shows is Paul's deep-seeded love for all of the churches (II Corinthians 11:28) - a marvelous and most beautiful example for us to emulate. So, do we have they type of love for the body of Christ, His Church? If not, it is time to change and put faith into action.

Steve Harris