The Berean Post Podcast

In this scenario, Paul suggests that we let them return to the old city and allow them to experience it again. If a person wants to persist in lying, let them return to the city where it is practiced. Where they can lie, and be lied to, where they cheat and be cheated, where they can steal and be stolen from, where they can be foolish and drunken, and where they can experience the affects and effects of other drunken people. And perhaps they will remember the city of light, perhaps they will remember what they left behind, and perhaps they will “come to their senses” as the prodigal son did and return in repentance.

The famous phrase "The Bible says not to judge" is not only false (because “do not judge” is not the categorical or exhaustive teaching on what the bible says about judgement), it is also an uninformed statement. The Bible contains numerous passages that call for exercising judgment, except for determining someone's eternal state. Both individual Christians and the church are meant to exercise judgment, and this situation is one such instance where it is appropriate.

In the letter, Paul addresses a serious problem in the Corinthian church. He mentions that a man within the church is in an inappropriate relationship with his stepmother. This behavior is not acceptable, even in the surrounding non-Christian culture. Paul emphasizes its severity, indicating that even non-believers would consider it wrong. It's a strong accusation, and Paul wants the Corinthian church to address the situation seriously and promptly.During those days in the Greco-Roman world, different cultures had different rules about relationships and actions. However, in this case, what the man was doing was considered taboo and immoral by almost everyone. When Paul says even non-believers wouldn't do such a thing, he means it's a very serious and unacceptable action, even by non-believers' standards. He cares deeply about the church's morals and wants them to be a shining example of living a good and honest life, regardless of others' behavior.Throughout the letter, Paul repeatedly reminds the Corinthians about the importance of living pure and holy lives, whether married or single. He urges them to avoid immoral actions and honor God with their bodies and relationships. In one part (1 Corinthians 6:12-20), Paul stresses the need to stay away from any sexual immorality, explaining that our bodies are like holy places where the Holy Spirit resides, so we should keep them pure.

Paul's statement that the kingdom of God is not in word but in power does not refer solely to demonstrative gifts of the Spirit. The Corinthian church had experienced numerous testimonies and evidence of the Spirit's demonstrative power, yet Paul addressed them as spiritual babes. This shows that God's movement through a church or group of people is not solely an indication of spiritual growth but a testament to God's goodness and grace. Paul emphasizes that any gift they receive was given to them and not earned, so they should avoid pride and arrogance. While we acknowledge that manifestations of the Holy Spirit are indeed displays of God's power, we now understand that Paul refers not only to power demonstrations but also to the power of the Holy Spirit to transform character.

We think there is much to be learned from how Paul viewed his role in the church, not merely as an administrator but as a spiritual father. His relationship with Timothy exemplifies this perspective, as he treats him like a son rather than a delegate or subordinate. Paul's approach reflects the New Testament's depiction of the church as a vital organism, where relationships are familial and interdependent, emphasizing spiritual family dynamics.

In the text, Paul contrasts his own experience as an apostle serving the kingdom with the collective experience of the Corinthian church. He emphasizes that while he and other believers endured suffering, the Corinthians seemed to "reign as Kings" in comparison. However, Paul clarifies that he did not intend to shame them with this comparison. His purpose was to warn and caution them.Paul explicitly states his intention in the letter, explaining that he brings this contrast to the forefront to stir them up. He wants to ignite a sense of spiritual growth and development within them. Paul likens himself to a spiritual father to the Corinthian church, as he played a significant role in its establishment through his commitment and service to Jesus Christ. Consequently, he deeply cared for their well-being and desired their progress in the faith.

Based on our previous experiences within various Apostolic/Prophetic movements, we have consistently observed certain common traits among their "apostles." These individuals can captivate their audience through a magnetic presence, exuding confidence that positions them as authorities on matters of faith. They demonstrate exceptional oratory skills and effectively engage their listeners through compelling storytelling, humour, and the skillful use of rhetorical devices. They commonly emphasize their wealth or success, employing motivational tactics and organizing fundraising initiatives to encourage financial contributions to their ministries, movements or – yes, even brands. These individuals exhibit high functioning and possess considerable capacity, leaving little doubt about their ability to influence and catalyze action. We have repeatedly witnessed these qualities as they demonstrate their power to inspire and motivate.

As we reflect upon this passage from the past, it has consistently presented itself as a delightful text that raises the question of whether Paul's words were imbued with facetiousness or sarcasm. We contend that he did, in fact, employ sarcasm in a manner characterized by both affection and confrontation. Allow us to elucidate the reasons behind our interpretation.

When Paul urges the Corinthians not to go beyond what is written, he argues that they should hold to what today we call a biblical worldview. Paul's frequent use of Old Testament scriptures in his writings indicates his continuity with an affirmation of the premises set forth by the prophets who came before him regarding the nature of God in relationship to humanity. Through his references, Paul upholds and builds upon the foundational understanding of God's character and His interaction with mankind as established in the Hebrew Scriptures.

Judge nothing before the timePaul's reminder to "judge nothing before the time" serves as a caution against hasty judgments and highlights the importance of relying on the wisdom and judgment of the Lord. A story from Paul's own life exemplifies this lesson. Once known as Saul, he harshly judged the followers of Jesus, believing they were misguided and heretical. However, a transformative encounter led to his conversion and a new identity as Paul. Through Paul's own transformation, believers learned the importance of not hastily judging others. A time when Paul violates his own advice.Yet, Paul himself violated this advice when he made a premature judgment on John Mark. In Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas disagreed on whether to bring John Mark on a missionary journey due to his previous departure. The disagreement led to their separation, with Barnabas taking John Mark and Paul continuing with Silas.This incident shows that Paul, too, could make flawed judgments. However, it is essential to note that this event occurred before Paul wrote to the Corinthians, highlighting his growth in spiritual understanding. Subsequently, Paul's relationship with John Mark was restored, and John Mark became a valuable helper to the apostle. This story underscores the need for humility, growth, and reliance on the Lord's wisdom in our judgments.