5/26/09 - 1 Corinthians 16, Part 2

This chapter of 1 Corinthians addresses appropriate ways of acknowledging those who labor in the faith for the benefit of the church. Paul makes some requests on his own behalf and also exhorts other brothers (Timothy, Apollos, Stephanus, etc) who would serve the Corinthians while giving instructions on how to treat them. The key takeaways, however, that I drew from this chapter were addressed more indirectly. The first I discussed yesterday and the second is found in verses 8 and 9:

"But I will tarry in Ephesus until Pentecost. For a great and effective door has opened to me, and there are many adversaries."

The study notes in my Bible explain that perhaps no new testament church had such fierce opposition as the one in Ephesus. In Acts 19:23-41 we see the story of an Ephesian idol maker who caused an uproar among the people because Paul preached that the idols were not gods and had no power, and therefore cutting right into his revenue stream. 2 Corinthians 1: 8-10 also describes trouble he faced in this region. In the face of all this, Paul's response was to delay his trip to Corinth because 'a great and effective door' had opened. Here's where the challenge is: when we encounter people who don't have much concern for God and may even be a little hostile toward Him, do we view that as an opportunity or as an uncomfortable moment we'd rather avoid?

God, let me be aware of such opportunities today. As I encounter co-workers and strangers who do not know you today, grant me a spirit of boldness to take the time to share the gospel, or even a word of encouragement, with them instead of taking my usual course of action - nothing. Produce in me a willingness to mention you, even when the situation seems uncomfortable. You said that faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Let me be Your voice today, proclaiming your truth.