“Resetting our Hope”
January 24, 2021
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
- vs 26 – “think of what you were”
- God is not a snob.
- Many of the religious leaders of Jesus’ day were snobs. See Luke 7:36-50 (Simon, the Pharisee).
- Even in the Old Testament, God welcomed outsiders and sinners. Rahab of Jericho was not only a foreigner, she was also a harlot (Hebrews 11:31).
- Related: Ephesians 2:12 “remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world.”
- Any time we look at someone else with disdain or disgust we too are being snobs – like Simon. And very much unlike Jesus.
- vs 27 “But God chose”
- What did He choose? Weak. Lowly. Despised. And “Not”
- These believers had some challenging issues. And God chose them.
- vss 29-30a “it is because of Him that you are in Christ Jesus”
- “In Christ” is a marvelous place to be.
- Mystery. Strength. Peace.
- Worry is an unproductive response to a positive resource: a sense of vulnerability. Vulnerability is a prompt to take refuge in the Lord.
- vss 31 “our righteousness, holiness and redemption”
- Thank the Lord for giving us a righteousness that is:
- Not a relative. Doesn’t involve comparing ourselves to each other.
- Not partial. It’s not merely a “discount.” Jesus paid it all.
- Not a temporary or conditional righteousness until you “mess up.”
- It is absolute and eternal righteousness in Christ.
- Jesus is God’s final word to mankind. There is nothing more God has to say. Nothing more to add. Nothing more that God requires beyond faith in Him.
Sis Maxine says
Love the word and how relatable it is to every Fay life. Am enriched by your obedience to teach his word and your own. Thanks Pastor!
Clinton Scott says
I loved everything about our Communion Service. From the opening prayer by Sister LaVern to the beautiful music and songs from our Worship Team, I sensed God’s anointing throughout this service. My spirit was especially moved by the singing of “God Is Good” and “Oh, How I Love Jesus.” Thank you, Worship Team!
I don’t know what came over me during this worship service. I found myself weeping profusely during Communion because joy-bells kept going off in my spirit and would not let up. I felt like I was right there celebrating and rejoicing with everyone even though I was physically at home. What an experience! It was strange and wonderful all at the same time. This was one of those experiences I will remember and treasure for a long time.
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for blessing us and our church family not just for today but every day! Hallelujah!