by Timothy W. Burnett
"The scriptures" refer to the Old Testament scriptures that prophesy of the coming Messiah who is our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul pressed the truth that they were fulfilled.
There are certain gift ministries that are best suited for certain people. But there is one ministry that is given to all believing Christians. That is the ministry of reconciliation (see 2Corinthians 5:18). The basics for this ministry invovles understanding and being willing to share the simple gospel of Jesus Christ. As we continue, it will be seen that the Corinthian believers were getting off track with their understanding of the same gospel.
What is the simple gospel of Jesus Christ? That he died for our sin nature that was genetically sealed in our blood and passed down from the first man, Adam, which results in death. He also died for our sinful decisions and actions (see also Hebrews 2:14). The underlying fear of all people is directly tied with the underlying bondage, death.
Concerning sins in action, we have this promise, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1John 1:9). Christians are not commanded to ask God for forgiveness. It says to "confess" our sins. God knows us pretty well. The forgiveness is already inside through our Lord Jesus Christ. It's up to us to confess our wrong actions to God in heaven. It involves getting past the denial.
Jesus Christ died for our sins. He was buried. And God raised him from the dead three days and three nights later. All as according to the Old Testament scriptures. This is the simple ministry that is given to all Christians. Isn't that so powerful and yet simply beautiful!
Next Paul shared aobut the different people who saw the risen son of God. Jesus was seen of over 500 people at one time. This must refer to an event that was not recorded in the written Gospels. Our resurrected Lord must have stood in the presence of over 500 people as he often did prior to his death.
And last of all, he was seen of Paul as recorded in Acts 9:3-8, who did not deserve to be an apostle because he persecuted the church of God. Paul then reiterates that God's grace was not in vain because he labored abundantly. Yet, not by his own power, but by God's power in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
Home