1 Corinthians: “Baptized Into Moses”

Since clouds are also composed of H2O, one could say that Israel was completely surrounded by water – the cloud being above them and the Red Sea on either side of them.  This is why Paul says that they “were baptized (baptizo, literally immersed or submerged) into Moses in the cloud and in the sea” (10:2).  Just as one is completely surrounded by water while being baptized (baptizo, immersed, submerged) for the forgiveness of their sins (Acts 2:38; 8:35-39; 22:16), Israel had also been surrounded by water during their escape from Egyptian bondage. Thus, Israel’s Red Sea crossing also serves as a copy and shadow of what baptism does for Christians today.… Read More 1 Corinthians: “Baptized Into Moses”

1 Corinthians: Do Not Go Beyond What Is Written

Nothing written in God’s Word has ever commanded or promoted the decision to give allegiance to mere men instead of the Lord; indeed, the exact opposite is recorded in Scripture (Matt. 23:5-12).  By glorifying Paul, Apollos, and others instead of Christ, the Corinthian Christians had indeed “go(ne) beyond what is written.” To go beyond the authority of God’s Word is sinful (Deut. 4:2; 12:32; Josh 1:7; Prov. 30:6; Rom. 16:17-18; Gal. 1:6-10; Rev. 22:18-19).… Read More 1 Corinthians: Do Not Go Beyond What Is Written

1 Corinthians: The Divine Command For Unity Over Division

On the night before he died, Jesus had prayed that all of his followers be “one” and “perfected in unity” (John 17:20-23).  By now directing the Spirit to inspire Paul to command his followers, “that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment” (1:10c), Jesus wanted the Corinthians to be the answer to his prayer.  He wants the same for us today…yet the doctrinal divisiveness of denominationalism and the contentious disagreements found even within some local congregations of the Lord’s church remain. … Read More 1 Corinthians: The Divine Command For Unity Over Division