Christianity in the first century was tough. Paul’s life was tough. Life for the Corinthian Christians was no picnic either. Opposition was everywhere.     1 Corinthians 16:13–18 (NKJV) Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. I urge you, brethren—you know the household... Continue Reading

We aren’t told why Apollos isn’t coming, but he resisted Paul’s strong encouragement to go and chose to stay with him—for now. It’s curious that Paul mentions that Apollos isn’t coming. Countless people aren’t coming. Why mention this one?     1 Corinthians 16:10–12 (ESV) When Timothy comes, see that you put him at ease... Continue Reading

Paul draws a sharp contrast between tongues and prophecy, but he’s careful to not declare tongues worthless or a problem. He makes this clear with , “Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy.” But that line is sandwiched between two harsh statements. Paul’s point is that speaking in... Continue Reading

Paul explains that our understanding of these other things is partial. This is easier to see if we print verses 9, 10 & 12 without verse 11 (which we’ll get to next). For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. … For now... Continue Reading