The Corinthians' clamoring for influence and status revealed a heart of pride that was absent of love; true concern for one another. Love is God's nature, so without love, everything that impressed them was in fact empty and evil. When we view ourselves in relation to who we are in God and his love for us, our pride melts away and we are free to seek the good of others.

The description of the kinds of gifts that God has given to his church, through the Holy Spirit, for the strengthening of his Body indicate what a healthy church looks like; grounded in truth, and joyfully flourishing in relational and situational peace and wholeness.

Just as a body consists of many parts, each with a vital role, so God works through every believer He has placed in the local church, empowering them by His Spirit for the good of the whole. Each member should actively exercise their spiritual gift to fulfill their essential role in blessing and strengthening the Body of Christ.

The gospel of Jesus Christ loses its power in our witness if it is not backed by a life that reflects Him. We grow into Christlikeness by following the example of those who are already walking closely with Him.

Regardless of what happens on this earth, It is in the hands of our Lord Jesus Christ. All who set their eyes, look by faith to Him, He shall gather at the river that flows from the throne of God. "Where God is in the midst of her, She shall not be moved."

Being part of a church family, receiving baptism, and regularly sharing in communion are not guarantees of eternal life. Most of the Israelites, though they were part of the covenant community, did not enter the Promised Land, but died under God's judgment because of their sins. Their example serves as a warning to us not to presume upon God's grace. Instead, we must learn to rely on God's strength and faithfulness to resist temptation, embracing the grace He provides as our means of escape.

Every believer must live a focused life advancing the Kingdom of God. This means living a disciplined life, without exception, pursued all the way to the finish line. Such a lifestyle maximizes our fruit in Christ's name and prevents spiritual ruin.

Followers of Christ are called to lay aside their rights, interests, and preferences whenever these might hinder the advancement of the gospel. Like Paul, we are to make ourselves servants to all, accommodating ourselves to others in everything that is not a moral issue. By identifying with others and meeting them where they are, we create the greatest opportunity to win them for Christ. In doing so, we not only seek their salvation but also share in the blessings of the gospel ourselves.

Passage Summary: Paul lays aside his right to financial support from the Corinthians in order to demonstrate that though he is required by God to preach the gospel to them, he does it freely from the heart out of love for God and his listeners.

Sermon Summary: There are many things the Lord Jesus requires of his followers. Chief among them is that everything we do comes freely, joyfully, and willingly from the heart.