1 Corinthians 9:6

Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working? (KJV)

Then: Paul continues presenting the list of distinguishing differences between himself and other apostles. Fee categorizes this as a third question with an answer that establishes Paul's authority as an apostle (p. 403). Paul seems to use Barnabas as another traveling apostle who worked and didn't travel in groups which would include wives. They had the right to and deserved monetary maintenance even if they didn't claim it (Baker, p. 131). By inference, if any one of the apostles mentioned in vs 4-6 was not an apostle deserving support, then neither was Paul; but if all the others were apostles deserving material support, then so did Paul deserve support. The means of support (that is, from a church) did not relate to the definition of "Who is an apostle?" On the contrary - because they were apostles, they deserved support. There is the possibility that additional members of traveling groups (wife, etc.) worked as they traveled place to place so that an apostle did not need to; however, as Barnabas and Paul traveled alone, they needed to do the work themselves.

Now: Some churches require their pastors to be married and expect compatible work from the wife. An odd problem for today's wives happens when (outside the Lord's will), the pastor divorces, yet is able to continue in another congregation as a minister. The wife is left without the husband and is no longer accepted as capable of doing the same tasks she did before - heads of women ministries, heads of children's work or valued for biblical knowledge. The issue is unseen and ignored.

Extra source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.
The First Epistle to the Corinthians by Gordon D. Fee (Eerdman's 1987) online athttp://books.google.com/books?id=XlBp10nUTXAC&dq=Gordon+Fee+Bible+commentator&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=SwLNSu3nA4v6Mf2XlDo&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12#v=onepage&q=&f=false

1 Corinthians 9:5

Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas? (KJV)

Then: Fee explains there were four methods of supporting traveling philosophers in the Graeco-Roman world: by patronage, by fees, by work, or by begging. If Paul was a legitimate apostle they would be paying him or he would have someone's patronage. The lesser philosophers did other work or begged. Paul's defense here is an unspoken answer to his rhetorical question. They did have the right to be paid for their work. Henry adds that that support also extended to whoever traveled with them, wives, sisiters, fellow apostles and workers.

Now: The issue is settled. Congregations pay for the work of the pastors - unfortunately, sometimes expecting the pastor to do it all. A church like that will never grow.

Extra source: The First Epistle to the Corinthians by Gordon D. Fee (Eerdman's 1987) online athttp://books.google.com/books?id=XlBp10nUTXAC&dq=Gordon+Fee+Bible+commentator&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=SwLNSu3nA4v6Mf2XlDo&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12#v=onepage&q=&f=falseCommentary Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.x.html

1 Corinthians 9:4

Have we not power to eat and to drink? (KJV)

Then: In order to help readers understand the Corinthian problem. NKJV and Wright move the word "power" into today's terminology of "rights." In the age of civil rights, this change is a big help to figure out what's involved in the conflict. Fee states that Paul , through blunt confrontation, is forcing the Corinthians to recognize his rights (p. 401).

Now: For the most part, people today believe the age of people seeing the risen Lord has passed. The two criteria for apostleship which Paul lists ( being sent for a purpose and the actual establishment of churches) are transferred to a definition of missionaries. The work may be judged, but no one questions the hearts intent of called missionaries to serve the Lord in that capacity. Nor is their need for support while on the mission field a theoretical problem.

Extra source: The First Epistle to the Corinthians by Gordon D. Fee (Eerdman's 1987) online athttp://books.google.com/books?id=XlBp10nUTXAC&dq=Gordon+Fee+Bible+commentator&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=SwLNSu3nA4v6Mf2XlDo&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12#v=onepage&q=&f=false

1 Corinthians 9:3

Mine answer to them that do examine me is this (KJV)

Then: Straight declarative sentence is a flag to listeners. But more than that, the NKJV and Wright translate the word "answer" as "defense." That supports Henry's belief that Paul took the Corinthians unrest personally. It sets readers up to notice emotional (love) shadings in the coming statements.

Now: Anyone questioned or challenged has some sort of emotional reaction to being challenged about the quality of their work. Studying Paul here can help let reason and love for the listeners supercede all self concerns.

Extra source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.x.html

1 Corinthians 9:2

If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord (KJV)

Then: The proof of Paul's apostleship is the existence of the Corinthian church. Matthew Henry finds a sense of discouragement on Paul's part that he has worked so hard to bring the Corinthians into the body, yet there are so many who question his apostleship, slander his reputation and character. Yet Paul still speaks to them with love.

Now: Henry states that the lack of returning kindness from people where ministers work is common. Wright also refers to poor congregational support of their ministers - either monetary, personal or spiritual. They need to read I Corinthians 9. Even if a minister's reward is the joy of bringing many to eternal salvation, he needs the material, everyday practical necessities of life. He should live at the same standard as his congregation.

Extra source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.x.html

1 Corinthians 9:1

Am I am not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord? (KJV)

Then: So who was Paul? Was he a person worth following? Rhetorical questions (self-evident and Fee, p. 392). The Corinthians already knew the answers, but Paul spent the next section of his letter explaining what his own rights were, why he gave them up, and how he conducts his life as a servant of Christ. Corinthians needed his "work in the Lord" as examples so they could go forth and do likewise.

Now: The harvest today is as needful of workers as it was in the time of the Corinthians. More and more people do not know the Lord or misunderstand the teachings. More and more publicly the Lord's person and work are scorned. His followers still desperately need leaders, teachers, and Paul's letters.

Extra source: The First Epistle to the Corinthians by Gordon D. Fee (Eerdman's 1987) online athttp://books.google.com/books?id=XlBp10nUTXAC&dq=Gordon+Fee+Bible+commentator&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=SwLNSu3nA4v6Mf2XlDo&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12#v=onepage&q=&f=false \

Interim note

I am not real interested in a top down understanding of church organization and how it works. I am interested in how the parts interrelate at the church membership level and at the common task level. I do not believe leadership should displace the work of the members. All members need to come into recognition of their personal talents, learn to use them and understand the principles Paul holds out in Corinthians. Sacrificial love - like that of Christ.

1 Corinthians 8:13

Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend (KJV)

Then: Paul gives a personal statement, not a "you-ought-to" statement. The Corinthians using his example can follow him, as he previously told them to do, or they can continue in their own understandings of knowledge which allows for liberty in all things. The Corinthians now have the principle, the explanation, the potential consequences to the weak and to themselves, and Paul's example. It is their choice to make.

Now: We rarely think through our daily choices in terms of their effect on those watching. We should. Paul's teachings are eternal-life warnings.

1 Corinthians 8:12

But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ (KJV)

Then: The starkness of the thought "ye sin against Christ" is overwhelming. Corinthians must have reacted in shock since their sophistic wisdom and knowledge was so self-admired. Where did it come from? Paul's stark treatment was necessary to get their attention. Roger Hahn explains that Corinthians believed having knowledge equaled being spiritual. Paul believes that having love equals being spiritual. So they sin twice -by leading the weak into sinful actions and by having pride, not love.

Now: The same attitude of pride regarding knowledge exists among many who think they are Christian in providing things, not love for the poor. They exemplify class elitism. Christ walks among us, asking us to break the barriers. Here's the summary "I would come save your burning house, but I wouldn't invite you to my cookout." Love? Christian love? How do we define it?

Extra Source: First Corinthians by Roger Hahn (Christian Resource Institute, c2007) online http://www.cresourcei.org/biblestudy/bb1cor6.html

Interim

Now:
I find I am extremely interested in the teaching/ approach, techniques and methodology which Paul uses. Because what he does is filled with the Spirit. It's not just a matter of using a pattern that puts information into the minds of hearers. It brings life-long change. It is the way the Spirit of God can move into the hearts of men -- Faith comes by hearing. So what is in that "hearing." Structure, content, emotions, dedication? How does it all fit together?

1 Corinthians 8:11

And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? (KJV)

Then: Explicitly back to knowledge, Paul adds a psychological, guilt reason for any believer to avoid being a stumbling block. Christ died for the sins of the one looking at another's example. This is a truth, a fact which will be heaped onto their souls. Were they the cause of another's slide away from salvation? It relates back to Jesus' teaching that it would be better for a millstone to be tied around the neck of him who caused a little one to sin than to come before the Lord's judgment for that action. Henry adds that he who has the Spirit of Christ will love those who love the Saviour so much that they too would die for those with weak consciences. In this regard what is the hold-up with only abandoning the practice of eating meat offered to idols?

Now: We cannot play with things of the spirit. Wonderful uncaring, Sunday morning worship; blythe, frothy attitudes of fellowshipping; superficial delights of service have no place in his kingdom. Depth and committment may produce joy in each act of service, but it's not etheral or purposeless. Bringing us to salvation was the Lord's plan of salvation so that we abide with love, faith and hope in him.

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible (Acts to Revelation) by Matthew Henry, online http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.ix.html

1 Corinthians 8:10

For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols (KJV)

Then: Wright uses the word "lure." The act of the strong-conscience guy can "lure" the weak-conscience guy back into sin - sin for the weak one because they've never been able to separate the bits and pieces of what is right with the action from what is wrong with it. Verse nine started it. Verse ten finishes it. Christians are responsible for the on-going spiritual growth of fellow believers. Like it or not, everyone is a teacher, example, leader to others in the faith. The Corinthians were blessed to have Paul tell them the exact instance of this problem and be both forewarned and forearmed. They still had plenty of life time left to correct mistakes before entering eternity.

Now: We need the internal, active Spirit of the Lord to tell us when something is askew, that our actions are misdirecting fellow believers. When a other followers speak, we need to listen, not just immediately brush off any and all comments by walking down another path. Being a stumbling block is a serious offense.

Stumbling block - 1 Corinthians 8:9

But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak (KJV)

Then: Paul is in the middle of his explanation about eating food offered to idols. Scholars and Commentators come at his explanation, try to explain and categorize it, and understand its full meaning. Khiok-Khng Yeo summarizes four methods: theological, religious (historical), sociological and rhetorical (p. 5-9). Theological is the straight "what-matches-the-Lord's- precepts" approach. Wright's information about eating in the temples belongs in the sociological. The historical religious interpreters try to define who are the strong and who are the weak. Yeo himself works with rhetorical study, considering the methods of verbal communication and including information on audience identification, historical context, and Paul's interpersonal relations with the Corinthians. The verse is not a "pound-the-table, do-what's-right" style, but it is of the "look-you-in-the-eye" and "tell-it-like-it-is" variety.

Now: Usually teachers just read and relate the principle being presented (theology) and bring out its application to believers' lives. Often they use the Paul's teaching pattern: Give the principle, state current problems, and challenge listeners to live God's way by showing love at all times.

Extra Sources: Rhetorical Interaction in 1 Corinthians 8 and 10: A Formal Analysis With Preliminary Suggestions for a Chinese, Cross-Cultural Hermenuitic by Khiok-Khng Yeo (Brill Academic Publishers 1994) online at http://books.google.com/books?id=SdPaIlT1_PoC&pg=PA5&lpg=PA5&dq=Paul

1 Corinthians 8:8

But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse (KJV)

Then: Paul's teaching continues on from the principle of love, honoring the conscience of another above one's own. Paul points out that the actual behavior of the stronger Christian is not an essential service to the Lord. The good news is not diminished or strengthened. MacClaren discusses the importance of taking into account the weakness of other Christians. In not eating the meat, the Corinthians are not abandoning a duty or action which results in spiritual progress.

Now: The verse provides a second question. What is the eternal result of my not performing a specific act in my own spiritual life? It could be possible - as in the case of Dobson reading stacks and stack of porn material while on a presidential commission - that someone else would say, "He did. I can." But if Dobson had not participated in the report, a Christian with a weaker conscience may have been called upon. A weak report could have been produced. Quick answers are not useful. Prayer is.

Extra sources: Expositions of Holy Scripture: Romans and Corinthians by Alexander MacLaren (ca 1880) online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/maclaren/rom_cor.iii.xv.html

I Corinthians 8:7

Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled (KJV)

Then: Internalized basic knowledge forms the conscience of man. It directs the division and recognition of good and evil, right and wrong. Paul recognizes where these new followers are coming from. Everything and anything connected with idol worship brings back a mind set of activities which dishonored the Lord. They were unable to sort out which prior actions were acceptable and which were not acceptable to the Lord (Wright). Their consciences were weak. Paul believed that able followers with strong consciences needed to choose to place more emphasis on loving the Corinthians with weaker consciences and not eating meat given to idols. Loving one another is the second greatest command. Following that command often requires temporarily or even permanently giving up personal understandings of the rights of an individual conscience.

Now: The principle applies yet today. The measuring line is a question, "Will my action lead another person into sin?" Today's culture is filled with poor choice options. Whereby I may read a book with "vengeance" as a theme, someone emerging from a gang culture would have his or her mind drop immediately back into a cesspool of dishonoring God.

1 Corinthians 8:6

But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him (KJV)

Then: Paul straightens out the meaning of "There is one God." It cannot mean that any respect is given to other Gods. God is the creator. God is Messiah. (Wright). Knowledge comes from this basic and cannot be confused with imaginary descriptions of any other god.

Now: God, Father, Son, and Spirit, endures the same, yesterday, today and tomorrow. Today's believers must know this same truth.

I Corinthians 8:5

For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) KJV

Then: The opening page of a First Corinthians study guide by Roger Hahn points out that the diversity of gods and its effect on the new church indicates these people were Gentiles, not raised in the Jewish tradition. Teaching the Corinthians required bypassing the commonly accepted slogans pointed out by Wright (everybody has knowledge of some kind, idols are inconsequential nonsense, there is no other God but one). Paul had to move them into a purer understanding ot the truth of "one God." This verse begins the attack on the problem of trivialized and twisted knowlege. Weak and misguided beliefs of some Corinthians resulted in their giving some credence to the all-encompassing, imaginary gods. They could worship the others behaviorally and be really worshiping the one true God.

Now: The problem of a universal God gains more and more credence. There is anomosity towards those who insist that one God, the Lord of heaven, the creator will have no other Gods before him, that there is only one way to heaven and that is through Jesus Christ his son. Today's believers need to know, really know, their God even as the Corinthians needed to know him.

Extra Source: First Corinthians by Roger Hahn (Christian Rescource Institute, c2007, opening page presented by The Voice, CRI Voice Institute) online at http://www.crivoice.org/books/1corinth.html

I Corinthians 8:4

As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one (KJV)

Then: R. Phua accepts a split definition of "Knowledge" of 8:1-3 from that in Cor 1-4. He states that Paul agrees with nothing in the "knowledge" of 1-4 (p. 129), but accepts the reasoning that for the strong, eating food offiered to idols is an insignificant action. Part of the knowledge about God here - "speculative theory" (p. 128) is true: "There is none other God but one." Wright includes information about the social nature of Corinthian outings. If you were going to "eat out" the only places to go were the temples. That was the practical way to get rid of all that meat. The environoment trivialized the "sacrificial" aspect, so strong believers could, and did, just forget the idolatry implications.

Now: In the recent past the conflict is similar to the "wine" vs "no wine" beliefs of the temperance movement. There is no difference in the starting fact or principle, "There is none other God but one." There are differences in the implications for behavior.

Extra sources: Idolatry and authority: a study of 1 Corinthians 8.1-11.1 in the light of the Jewish Diaspora by Richard Liong-Seng Phua - (Continuum International Publishing Group, 2006) online at http://books.google.com/books?id=QY9GzihNhkwC&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_navlinks_s#v=onepage&q=&f=false

Just for Openers

I am working hard to put this blog in order. I had to skip a lot of verses in order to keep up with the Corinthians class and am now going back to fill in the holes. That means things are under construction. Looking for something? Use the blog search feature in the upper left corner. I do. It works wonders.

Glad to know what you think.

1 Corinthians 8:3

But if any man love God, the same is known of him (KJV)

Then: The verse is simple to understand, but not accept and apply day by day - Those who love him have his love. In context, the verse is a prelude to specific problems, but not the capstone. N T Wright sees a slow build-up to the main point in chapter ten. Believers have to know the principles first.

Now: Wright emphasizes that daily, every Christian, individually, needs to recognize and have the knowledge of the Lord's love. Thereby, they know God. In our Corinthian twenty-first century culture, nothing will change without first establishing a basic love connection with God.

I Corinthians 8:2

And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know (KJV)

Then: Those who know the truth, but lack love, know nothing because as Henry says, their pride rends their knowledge useless. Human knowledge is valuable only as it is edified by love. Paul wanted the Corinthians to understand the heart of serving Christ. His love for those he created is embedded within us, pushes out any demeaning ideas, attitudes and behaviors towards both fellow believers and non-believers. Rules must be known and followed, but compassion brings results. Keep the teaching, but leave off the final judgement.

Now: We need the same love - along with the same knowledge of his heart and teachings. Discovery, self-check, methods are difficult to come by and apply. Concentrating on Paul's teaching here and identifying twenty-first century gods, is necessary first step. .

Extra Source: Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary by Matthew Henry (1706) online at http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=46&c=8&com=mhc

1 Corinthians 8:1

Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth (KJV)

Then: A study outline of I Corinthians by Daniel B. Wallace places chapters seven through fourteen under a heading called "Difficulties in the Church." I Corin 8:1 returns to the problem of pride derived from knowledge. David Guzik notes that both knowledge and love grows, but compares the growth of bubbles as a matter of "swelling" as opposed to the careful, planned growth of buildings. All the commentators talk about knowledge. Some one of them has surely placed Knowledge, rather than money, as being the root of all evil. That would be reasonable since in The Garden, Evil tempts Eve to know all things. For Paul to use the misuse of knowledge as a continual teaching point is both logical and psychological.

Now: Knowledge still makes men proud - whether collectively or individually. Knowedge is useful and necessary in life, but when prized for its own sake, and without being based in love, it can cause interpersonal problems which last a lifetime. Men do not change. They need to discern self-instances of pride of knowledge.

Extra Source: I Corinthians: Introduction, Argument, and Outline by Daniel B. Wallace http://bible.org/seriespage/1-corinthians-introduction-argument-and-outline
I Corinthians 8 - Living by Knowledge of by Love by David Guzik (c)2001 http://www.enduringword.com/commentaries/4608.htm

Organizer: I Corinthians 8

Topic is dealing with freedom allowed through your belief in Christ. What choices do you make?

1. Verses 1-3 group together and talk about dual spirituality - from love? from knowledge?
2. Verses 4-6 concentrate on the problem of eating meat offered to idols -- gods vs God! We believe in the one true God - Creator and Messiah
3. Verses 7-13 focus on consequences of making the choice. What if the weak eat? What if you eat? What if they see you eat? What's your responsibility? What's your risk? What did Paul choose?

-- Moving on to Paul's examples.

Summary - 1 Corinthians 4:14-21

Then and Now:
Curiously, Paul did not abandon the issue of boasting/pride quite yet. You'd think he would. Instead he decided to give the Corinthians one more prick alongside a little more hope. (Henry calls this remembering to respect and distinguish the sinner from the sin.) Paul flat out states his purpose is to admonish -not shame the readers. First, he has built on the foundation of Christ; his followers must become the same kind of master workman that he is. They need to be like Paul - who is like Christ. To help, he sent Timothy.

Paul considered the effect of that visit on those whose minds still honor worldly wisdom. They might think they had gained points (credibility, authority) since Paul himself was not coming. Not true. He had other committments. He wanted the Corinthians to see that real power comes through the authority of God. Real power results in changed lives, forgiven hearts, and new souls added to the kingdom. Then, once again, before closing the issue, Paul reverts to conciliation. He asks the Corinthians to use their wisdom by choosing which is better for teaching - a rod or a spirit of gentleness.

Now: Outside cultures change, but the psycological make-up and the sin nature of mankind never changes. Paul's teaching methods are just as useful today as then. What must always be considered are the values and needs of the individual hearers.

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Volume VI (Acts to Revelation) by Matthew Henry, online http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.v.html

Summary - 1 Corinthians 4:6-13

Then and Now:
Wright's discussion ends by questioning Paul's confrontation with the attitudes of Christians in western culture. This passage provides conscience pricks.
A. Paul keeps on explaining his purpose. The Corinthians should not indulge in pride concerning favorite teachers. (Today's believers compare churches and put down or extol one over another.)
B. Paul reviews and discounts other points of pride. Workers differ in talents because of God's creation design. The Corinthians received and are rich in the spirit, but act as if they didn't and weren't. They are already performing last day judgements. Paul shakes their complacency by saying he wishes they and he were already reigning in heaven.
C. Paul shames them by listing and evoking comparisons to his and Apollos' status on earth. Their many sufferings do not equal, but can correlate to those of Christ. That's why the apostles will probably show up in heaven last. Their foolishiness confounds the world. The acts of the Corinthians do not.
D. Corinthians (and today's believers) need to realize that in the world, Jesus' followers stand at the end of the line (Wright, p. 48). Jesus is our only king, and his wisdom, treasure-chest jewels, and royalty are not recognized here. Corinthians needed to step back, remember that, and behave accordingly. So do we. The crucified Messiah expects love and forgivess, mercy and grace.

Summary - I Corinthians 4:1-5

Then and Now:
Again Paul first presents the teaching principle, moves it to the practical, discusses its implications and then presents the right action.
A. As workers in the kingdom, we need to be seen as trustworthy servants or managers in the household.
B. One element of that trust is the way we treat fellow workers. Their work and motives should not be judged as the Corinthians are judging Paul.
C. The Lord is the one who judges us all - and that day will come. Wright reminds readers that beliefs about the day of judgement reflect our knowledge of God, the creator and his plan for our salvation. Wright also discusses Paul's purpose in telling the Corinthians two things. First, judgement can't come in the middle - before a job is completed. Second, he (Paul) will not submit to the Corinthians judgment. He'll wait for the Lord to do it.
D. Final reminder again sends hope back to Paul's hearers: Everyone in the kingdom, when motives are revealed, will receive praises in the judgement.

Now: Paul's teaching is a good structural model for today's servants to follow. Telling fellow workers about their behavioural problems is not the same as judgement. The procedures involved in working to improve anyone's spiritual qualities require analysis, but they do not include a decision about punishment.

Just for Openers

Looking for application of Corinthians to life today? You won't find it here. Looking for astute insight into the lives of New Testament Corinthians? You won't find it here. Looking for a waffle view of Corinthians - what's valuable now for our Corinthian kind of world? You might find it here.

If you don't find it immediately, a post on the verse you want will be here later. Keep reading and check the commentators. Sort out your own understandings of Corinthians, then and now.

Remarkably everything is backward - because that's the way a blog works. The beginning is pushed to the end. Metaphoric, don't you think?

Other than the verses, nothing here is "written-in-stone" gospel. These are just the wandering thoughts of a journalist which will, hopefully, touch on facts and comments of I and II Corinthians discerned (or .....?) from a Milligan course study led by Lee Magness. If you want more, google "gospel" and read the real thing. Do take everything here as opportunity to consider the Lord's work in a lyme-infested age.

Temples of life

2 Corinthians 5:1-10

Then: Paul's near death experiences moved him to think more closely about the body and the temple of God. Finding three reasons of comfort in the text (v.1) a new body already placed in heaven, (v. 5) God's promise to finish what he started, and (v. 7-8) when it's over here, we'll be with Christ in heaven, Paul can keep on keeping on (Harris, p. 365-366). All these illustrate the main theme of Paul's apology or defense of self. As an apostle or servant of Christ, the Lord's plan of bringing believers into his presence is assured.

Now: That's our goal. That's our reward - being with and in the presence of Christ. Paul's able introspection applies to us also.

Extra Source: The Second Epistle to the Corinthians: a Commentary on the Greek Text by Murray J. Harris (Grand Rapids MI: Wm. B. Eerdmans Co., c2005).
http://books.google.com/books?id=tejCzvJ5yyAC&dq=2+Corinthians+Commentary&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=5wEQS93PDYfUlAfr9KixAg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=12&ved=0CDMQ6AEwCw#v=onepage&q=2%20Corinthians%20Commentary&f=false

Following the Interpolation

I Corinthians 7:2-10

Then: Paul backs off from the severity of his statements (one more reason it is not an interpolation) and slips into discussing the portrait of a successful Christian (Wright, p. 75-79), himself. He works hard, suffers disappointments, worries about the Corinthian church, comforted by God and rejoices in the Corinthians' progress towards salvation.

Now: Usually overlook the difficulties of living a Christian life and only notice the successes and joys. If problems are mentioned or talked about, it's always in the past about those which have been overcome. Sometimes close friends are asked to pray, but usually the problems are private. Paul is open for a purpose. He wants these Corinthians to move towards victory. We don't know how much or how often we should allow others to see our own struggles.

1 Corinthians 6:14-7:1

Discussion of Content:

Then: Keener(p. 192) marks the supposed interpolation as a digression, stating that Paul often used frameworks of other text, then presented an argument for an illustrative aspect of his main topic. At this point, Paul is moving towards the end of an emotional appeal. He fights for the sake of purity. He wants the Corinthians to sever all relationships with unbelievers, iniquity, darkness, Satan, temple idols so that God can abide in their hearts. He cites the promise of Exodus 29:45 that he will dwell with the children of Israel and he will be their father. Because of the promises, Paul calls upon the Corinthians to choose clean hearts and open minds.

Now: The passage was accepted by the biblical conferees and has teaching points similar to those made in many of Paul's other writings. Non-believers are not part of the kingdom of God. Unless treated accordingly, they have no chance of questioning their own position and commiting themselves to Christ. Kenner also points out that Paul's use of unusual words - the unequal yoke - balances the form of opposites (believers, unbelievers; temple of idols, temple of God).

Corinthians by Craig S. Keener (New York: Cambridge University Press, c2005) http://books.google.com/books?id=vzPk-xwUTNEC&dq=2+Corinthians+Commentary&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=5wEQS93PDYfUlAfr9KixAg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=13&ved=0CDYQ6AEwDA#v=onepage&q=2%20Corinthians%20Commentary&f=false

Context of the Interpolation

II Corinthians 6
Starting with an apology (not an "I'm sorry," but an explanation of the work, beliefs, actions and behaviors of someone), Paul defends himself. Baker (p. 323-324) apportions 4 stanzas. First, 6:4b-5) shows ministers suffering afflictions, distresses, stripes, imprisonments, tumults labors, watchings and fastings. Second, 6:6-7a lists virtues of pureness, knowledge, longsuffering kindness, love, truth. Next, 6:7b-8a tells of experiences - God's armor and glory against dishonor, evil reports, deceivers. Finally 6:8b-10 reminds readers of misrepresentation. Humiliated, he is alive; sorrowful, he rejoices; poor, he brings spiritual riches; and owning nothing, he still possesses all things.

Just before the interpolation Paul speaks kindly, almost mournfully to the Corinthians. He searches for a bond, a contact between himself and them so that they will stay with their long sought recognition of the Truth. He tells them his heart is open to them and calls them little children who need to even larger hearts to be filled with the Holy Spirit.

So how is this a defense? Paul hopes that by being vulnerable, he will evoke feelings of compassion and ability to see his life from another point of view - not that of his attackers. Using God's weapons, Paul endures (N. T. Wright, p. 70) for the sake of the Corinthians and for the sake of those who are still as they were, ignorant of Christ's love. Showing that he did not quit in face of adversity, Paul leads the way to right attitudes towards the adversaries and gratefulness for God's armor.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

2 Corinthians 6:14 to 7:1, An Interpolation

Interpolation - The material is seen by commentators as different. So some think it is not original but stuck in. Why?

For: - Interrupts presentation of Paul's inner feelings which resumes in 7:2
- Modified from another letter has own theme
- Eight terms only ever used here in Paul's letters
- harsh tone of the text

Against: - Material is just a digression
- Paul himself is modifying quotes from others to make his points
- Quotation from Old Testament is normal for Paul
- Tone needed to break through the mindsets of those wanting to join non-believers
- Section matches overall theme of the Corinthians' reconciliation with both Christ and Paul
- Following verses ease the tone of the previous criticism.

II Corinthians form

Notes on form of II Corinthians
Of three rhetoric categories - judicial, deliberative, and epideictic - the letter is judicial because, alongside his teachings about Christ, Paul defends his own classification and work as an apostle (Baker, p. 276-281).

Out of the teachings for producing a speech (lecture), Paul uses three: invention, disposition, and elocution. Invention (or core topics) are defense of his apostleship, the good news of Christ and Paul's understanding of him. Disposition, or arrangement of ideas, begins and ends with normal greetings and then enfolds the four themes of Paul's authenticity, the resurrection, ideas about the church, and essentials of Christ. Elements of elocution are seen throughout - metaphors, warnings, and transitions.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

Paul's letters and Travel

Letter sort out:
*1 Corinthians 5:9 Paul refers to another letter - now called the "lost" or "previous" letter
**Paul wrote 1 Corinthians - dated as spring of AD 54 or 55
***2 Corinthians 2:4 & 7:8 - now called the "severe" letter; also lost probably summer AD 55
****2 Corinthians 1-9 unit may be a 4th letter by itself AD 55
****2 Corinthians 10-13 unit may be a 5th letter by itself AD 56

To start with Paul was in Corinth. He went to Ephesus, heard bad news about the church and sent the "previous" letter. When he heard of more troubles he sent 1 Corinthians. Two itineraries fell through, but he visited Corinth before heading to Macedonia. He returned to Ephesus and wrote the "severe" letter, and went on to Macedonia. There, he wrote both parts of 2 Corinthians before finally going to Corinth where he wrote Romans. The situation with Corinthian unrest caused Paul's changes in travel plans and his finally feeling free to go back. It is because of the contention and changes that scholars can date the letters, learn more about Paul, the person, and see the continuing need for every congregation in every age to concentrate on peace and unity.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006, pp. 169-271.

1 Corinthians 16:24

My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen (KJV)

Then: Just to be sure, Paul tells the Corinthians again of his personal love for them which is based on and interwined with theirs and his belief in Christ.

Now: We need reminders and assurances as to our place in Christ and in the hearts of fellow believers. We also need to take time to give out assurances.

1 Corinthians 16:23

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you (KJV)

Then: Paul's benediction was a normal ending for letter writers. Perhaps it is an abbreviated blessing because Paul is writing it himself, but the words show Paul's desire that the Corinthians know God's grace in spite of any shortcomings. Unwritten is another reminder that that is part of the character of Christ's love and presence.

Now: We take heart in knowing Jesus' grace and love abounds in the lives of all believers, year after year, and when we think about it, know that our children and children's children will have that grace until the Lord comes. We too keep the word "Maranatha" in mind.

1 Corinthians 16:22

If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha (KJV)

Then: A strange phrase, which Baker calls a malediction - opposed to benediction. Anathema equals cursed. Baker (p. 248) offers speculation that it was part of the early liturgy. Anyone not loving Christ should expect to be cursed. Maranatha is pretty well known as a word which means "Come Lord Jesus." As presented and explained by Baker, the term is eschatological in nature. It helps hearers think about the time of Christ's return for the faithful and judgment on everyone else.

Now: Communion and liturgy focus on life here and now. We don't spend a lot of time thinking about or looking forward to the Lord's return, just enduring through the present. Neither do we think of non-believers as being cursed. It's more a matter from the other side, the task of salvation and our efforts to serve the Lord by going into all the world. Judgement per se and a condition of being cursed is mentally ignored.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:21

The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand (KJV)

Then: Paul took over from Sosthenes, the amanuensis (letter writer), in order to let the Corinthians know how much he cared.

Now: Most of the time people use email or type-face letters, but at the bottom of a card or letter, people add an extr a hand written note. This makes it personal and is the part that is always read.

1 Corinthians 16:20

All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one another with an holy kiss (KJV)

Then: A normal way of greeting each other was by use of a kiss. In Paul's calling it "holy," he's lifts the importance of interpersonal greetings to that of the friendship between Christ and the church. Baker (p. 248) explains that a holy kiss was not part of church liturgy until the days of Justin (100 - 165 AD).

Now: We greet with handshakes and maybe a cheek-to-cheek hug. Actions change; sentiments don't.

1 Corinthians 16:19

The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house (KJV)

Then: Corinthians know that Paul is near the end of his remarks. These are extra greetings from people the Corinthians would know and not know. He specifically mentions Priscilla and Aquila because of their name recognition. By adding in the fact that these two have church meetings in their home, Paul brings in a bond of familiarty with the Corinthians who do the same thing.

Now: In closing personal letters, many writers will add notes of friendship and greetings from another ".... sends his love" or ".... asked to be remembered." The purpose is to keep the bonds of love and friendship strong and active. Now, of course, it's not a usual church-to-church kind of event. Communcations and church work have changed so much that greetings are personal between minister and minister, leader and leader. The rest of the church is slightly aware of membership in fellow churches, but rarely on a personal basis.

1 Corinthians 16:18

For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such (KJV)

Then: The place of Stephanos and company in the Corinthian church is debatable. N. T. Wright (p. 237) believes they were not necessarily aligned with the pro Paulites. For this reason Paul could rejoice in some, even those he'd baptized, looking past the party spirit to the greater purpose of keeping believers united in love, fully able to stand firmly on the Rock of Salvation. The joy in the verse illustrates Paul's delight in that hope for the Corinthian church. He wants the entire church to rejoice in and emulate those servants.

Now: When believers know a churches defects and work to improve it, they always face the same difficulty that Paul did - trying to make members aware of the strengths, not feel that the congregation is a lost cause, and be encouraged enough to work out the problems.

1 Corinthians 16:17

I am glad of the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which was lacking on your part they have supplied (KJV)

Then: Corinthians probably did not read this as a criticism. Other translators soften the meaning to Paul's being grateful for the help these three have given him while others in Corinth were just unable to come. Travel was not an easy task in those days. Taking the effort to bring Paul a status report was an exceptional event (Baker, p. 247). The biblical record shows no other church doing the same thing.

Now: Sister congregations use newsletters, denominational journals, annual conferences, Bible college contacts, member visits to other churches to find out what's happening. They learn ideas as to what works and what doesn't.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:16

That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth (KJV)

Then: The Corinthians aren't the only congregation Paul started. He has worked with many whom the Lord calls. Some of the Corinthians, with their problem of thinking one preacher better than another, may have not been as open as possible to Paul's missive bearers. They needed an extra bit of urging. So Paul praises Stephanas, Fortunatus and Achaicus giving them status. Paul hopes the letter bearers will be well received.

Now: When we get a house or home ready to receive visitors, we are so busy that we spend a lot of time thinking about our side of the work and not too much about the feelings of the ones who are coming. If we consider Paul's request we can also think about the problems the visitors are facing. That question, "Did you have a nice trip" takes on addded meaning. It's a part of keeping the Lord's commandment to be loving.

1 Corinthians 16:15

I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) (KJV)

Then: Paul likes to end his letters according to the custom. He gives greetings to specific people and also includes greetings from some of the people with him in Ephesus. Stephanas, along with Fortunatus, and Achaicus who are mentioned in the next verses are the ones who carry the letter to the Corinthians (Baker, p. 245). They also got to read it aloud and answer questions. By "first fruits," Paul means Stephanas became an early believer during Paul's ministry in Achaia, land area in and around Corinth. Baker (p. 246) reminds readers thatPaul baptized this household (1 Corinthians 1:16).

Now: We don't spend much time looking at Greece and the location of Corinth. A map shows how easy (by 1st century standards) it was to get to Corinth. Paul could expect speedy delivery. Those who brought the letter needed an extra kind of hospitality. Paul is indirectly asking the Corinthians to draw the letter carriers into mutual fellowship, forget their party allegiances and submit to them as they do to other believers because they are fellow servants. Today's churches host college teams, visiting ministers, traveling missionaries and other servants of the Lord. By helping with lodging and meals congregations have a chance to speak and learn from the visitors at the same time they serve Christ. Normally, there aren't any underlying tensions, but occasional, through the imperfections of humanity, similar situations exist.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:14

Let all your things be done with charity (KJV)

Then: The King James word for love is charity. That better matches and clarifies a Corinthian understanding of the word. It omits all the other meanings lumped into the English meaning of "love" (Magness class notes). In context, Paul is not letting his just stated admonitions be actions without value. Harking back to his earlier presentation of the way to live the Christian life, he gently reminds them again - Anything done without love has no value.

Now: Baker (p. 246) brings attention to other passages such as Phol 4:809 or 1 Thess 5:12-22 where Paul reviews what he's earlier spent extended time explaining. Since he already discussed it, he doesn't add anything more. It's also somewhat like a parent sending a child out the door, "Be good," expecting the offspring to remember former training.

1 Corinthians 16:13

Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong (KJV)

Then: These short, quick, stacatto-like warnings could be easily learned and memorized by the Corinthians. And when a situtation arose, the words could come flying into their minds. The best advice is often abbreviated. In all these ways, Corinthians could show their love for Christ and for their fellow men.

Now: Believers still need these thoughts to withstand temptations. Paul's advice can be looked at as advice and from the point of view of his concern for fellow believers. Church leaders today also need to keep looking for the sayings and slogans which will help their friends and neighbors.

Moving to the End

Love covers a multitude of sins: Verses 13 to 24 conclude the chapter and the letter with yet another admonition, greetings, and a benediction (blessings). It's the close out to a letter filled with so many things that it must have been read again and again by the Corinthians. So too, by people today. Believers want to know what that church was like and how Paul wanted it to function. Corinthian society, so close to much of the US materialistic world, deserves a lot of special attention. Many of their problems are our problems - yet as Wright p. 235) observes, it needs the love which "stitches" all the problems, all the churches, and all the people together.

1 Corinthians 16:12

As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time (KJV)

Then: Paul already knows the esteem of many Corinthians for Apollos. He doesn't need to spend a lot of time talking about him, but it is important that the Corinthians know about those plans too. Apollos plans to come at a convenient time.

Now: The sentence ends Paul's discussion about practical matters of travel. The interesting thing for today's believers is our chance to relate Paul's decisions about ministry and his knowledge of Christ, and his teachings about them to the real world. We can evaluate what worked, what didn't, and consider why. We evaluate how to match his goals with our efforts in teaching Christ. At the same time, learning about Paul reflects how God sent us his Son. He too is anchored in a specifc time and what he teaches makes sense for us today just as much as it did for those in first century. Christ is nont a metaphysical, shadowy, New Age kind of concept. He is real - showing us the way to love God and love others.

1 Corinthians 16:11

Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren (KJV)

Then: Possibly, Timothy's leadership skills were less obvious than those of others (Wright, p.234). People used to seeing the movers and shakers pass through their town might overlook Timothy's value. Wright conjectures this is another one of Paul's teaching strategies.

Now: Sometimes church members fail to notice the value of fellow believers. As workers in the kingdom they are valuable. It takes constant reminders to change peoples' views so that they are able to see others as Christ, not the world, does.

1 Corinthians 16:10

Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I also do (KJV)

Then: The Corinthians already knew who Apollos and Timothy were. Both had spent time in Corinth, yet Paul is still concerned Timothy be welcomed with open arms so he can do the Lord's work with enthusiasm and joy, not fear. "If" implies doubt as to travel plans. Nothing is settled, but Paul is preparing the Corinthians for a visitor.

Now: Paul's comments exhibit a person who cares about his team members - for their work and for their personal well-being. Teams without this aspect can expect failure because Jesus' second greatest command is "Love one another."

1 Corinthians 16:9

For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries (KJV)

Then: This remark explains Paul's reasoning. He wants to travel soon because mission opportunities abound, and always concerned about enemies to the gospel news, he probably sees signs that it might be time for him to move on. Some commentators like Wright, mark this as an end to one topic in Paul's letter; others, like Baker, include thoughts about Paul's fellow workers, so continue on through verse twelve.

Now: We need to be awake to area needs for teaching the gospel. We also need to pray for the doors, pray for the doors to open and pray for ability to make effectual use of the open doors. Adversaries can be human or caused by events. Sometimes laws bar particular ministries and sometimes funding is lacking. Whatever the impediment, the Holy Spirit directs and guides while reminding believers of Paul's words, "All things work together for good even to them that are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

1 Corinthians 16:8

But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost (KJV)

Then: The Corinthians are still hearing about Paul's original travel plan. Pentecost signified the beginning of the church in Jerusalem. Celebrated 50 days after Passover, people remembered the first coming of the Holy Spirit into the lives of 3000 individual church members (Baker, p. 242-3).

Now: We still remember Pentecost as part of the church calendar. Some churches give more emphasis to the memory than others. For some the focus is historical; for others the focus is on the specific need to be sensitive to the Lord's direction in an individual's life.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:7

For I will not see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if the Lord permit (KJV)

Then: Finally Paul brings in the Lord. All planning needs submitted to him. His servants must be ever ready to change and use new opportunities or deal with barriers. This is a quick reminder.

Now: Using 2 Corinthians 2:1-4 Baker (p. 244) discusses how radically Paul's plans changed. After making a direct, but not-so-great quick trip to Corinth, he returned to Ephesus, wrote them a severe (missing) letter, and settled on his original plan of going up through Macedonia.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:6

And it may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may bring me on my journey whithersoever I go (KJV)

Then: Paul hopes to be there and stay awhile, perhaps through the winter before leaving again. Possibly he's not sure which churches will next need his presence because he indicates his plans after that are not yet formed. Baker (p. 243) brings up Romans 15:24 where Paul voices desire to head to Spain.

Now: Churches spend a lot of time looking ahead, finding ways to grow their individual ministries by working with local and foreign missions. Planning is always an integral part of church growth.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:5

Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia (KJV)

Then: In this and the next four verses, Paul talks about his travel plans. He must have raised the hopes of many who read and heard the letter. Specifically he's heading to Macedonia and Corinth is logically part of that trip.

Now: Paul's travel plans are of historical interest in understanding Paul's life and ministry. Paul expected to leave Ephesus (Wright, p. 230 says midsummer), head north and go through the top part of Greece, then circle back down to come through Corinth.

1 Corinthians 16:4

And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me (KJV)

Then: If things work out, Paul might travel with the carriers of the collection. Baker (p. 242) points out that it did happen (Acts 20), but it also started the process whereby Paul was eventually arrested for trial in Rome. Wright's discussion (p. 230) focuses on Paul's strategy for church unity. By getting to know each other, care for each other, and interact personally, the church would be strengthened.

Now: Due to geographic impossibilities and to problems with agreement as to practices and doctrines, unity is a philosophy more than an actuality. Usually, however, when pushed to a common truth, believers accept others as part of the body of Christ. "Even if....."

1 Corinthians 16:3

And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem (KJV)

Then: Paul announces both his intent to come wants to be able to talk with a pre-appointed travel team. There were no banks then. The designated carriers will have the money in high value coins, find a way to strap them to their person and travel all the while hoping not to be robbed, hurt, etc. Baker (241) also adds that the Corinthians would then have a personal contact in Jerusalem at the same time the recipients could be aware of Gentile, non-Jewish, believers.

Now: People like to give money when they know the extent of the need and have personal knowledge of the recipients. They also like to share in the joy of bringing new believers into the church universal. Missionaries receive better, long-term support when they schedule intermittent reports and visits with church groups. This is easier done for local missions, but is still necessary for foreign missions.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 16:2

Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come (KJV)

Then: What Paul wants is to have everything collected before he arrives. Before, he's never wanted money to be part of his ministry because that would skew the message of Christ's forgiveness. If everyone knows ahead the collection is for other church's and the process completed, Corinthians are less likely to think about Paul as one who asked for money. Wright (p. 231) also notes that Paul was also removing any bases of possible accusations of fraud.

Now: Believers have used Paul's plan in the churches for many years. The sacrament of giving is a traditional part of serving God. A recommended tithe of ten percent is based on Old Testament teachings, but the amount is always a personal commitment between the individual and the Lord.

1 Corinthians 16:1

Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye (KJV)

Then: Clear statement, new topic. Corinthians hearing it knew that instructions were coming to clear up an old problem about sending money to the Jerusalem churches. Baker (p. 239) speculates that the money would be used for the poor there and to defray costs of the annual pilgrims staying with Christian hosts (in the past might have used Jewish homes, but those no longer available).

Now: A part of the process of "Love one another" involves paying attention to the needs of others and helping, as possible. Although impulsive responses to sudden needs happen, planning for regular giving and participation in serving God with worldly goods makes better sense. It ensures the wise use of funds and relieves some of the anxiety of those in need.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

Overview 1 Corinthians chapter 16

Chapter 16 addresses three topics: A collection, Paul's travel plans, and final greetings to the church. He talks also about the travel for Timothy, gives some news about Apollos and can't end without mentioning ways they should stand firm in their faith, especially in regards to how they treat fellow church members.

In retrospect, Paul would have had less trouble, if he'd withheld some of his certainty about coming to Corinth. He has to spend a good deal of 2 Corinthians soothing hurt feelings and defending himself for delaying a subsequent trip to meet with them. That he cares for the Corinthians is never in doubt, but he should have focused a lot more on the "when God wills" aspect of everyone's future plans.

Summary 1 Corinthians 15:50-58

Resurrection Summary: The last little bit of this long chapter concludes what Paul wants the Corinthians to know. No one enters the kingdom of God with a corruptible, physical body because God changes those who will inherit the kingdom. And at the last, when the final trumpet blows, those who are still physically alive, will be changed to a spiritual body in the blink of an eye. Along with believers who died first, they join Christ in heaven. Paul's statement here is factual. "Death is swallowed in victory." Finally, then, Paul tells the Corinthians and us the ultimate truth. All that we do here is based on that now established victory. None of our labor is in vain. We follow Christ doing his will while "being steadfast, unmovable and always abounding in the work for him."

Summary point 1 Corinthians 15: 49

How can the dead be raised at all? Paul's whole point from verses 35 to 49 is to move men from a limited earth-bound view to seeing resurrection from a universal point of view. All bodies created by God - sun, moon, animal, fish, human whatever - have an individual glory in their appointed spheres. Each one is part of a decaying, temporal realm. In the spiritual realm of heaven, God, who is perfectly capable, will choose which physical bodies to sow, transform, and give another kind of glory. Why should man expect otherwise? It makes perfect sense to have soul-animated life on earth and spirit-animated life in heaven. That's why one Adam could lead all men to death, and the second Adam, Christ, could lead all men to eternal life.

I wish I could remember which broadcast minister I heard yesterday. He spoke about the modern expectation of everyone having an expectation of spiritual life. That's not what the Bible - and Paul here - teaches. Only those who are born again receive eternal life. The event is not automatic. While on earth, all have the opportunity to choose or turn from Christ, i.e., to choose or turn from eternal life. In heaven, the Lord will do the sowing. Thankfully, believers in Christ have the promise "Whosever believeth in him shall not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Paul's presentation answers many questions about what will happen, but it doesn't explain everything. We shouldn't expect that. The Lord retains sovereignity in power, knowledge and authority.

Summary at 1 Corinthians 15:34

Half way through Resurrection thoughts: Verse 34 marks the end of one section on Resurrection. Part I, verses 1-11 verified Christ's resurrection through witnesses. Part II, verses 12-34, talked about why the resurrection was necessary (implications for forgiveness, our place in heaven, and our present lifestyle on earth).
Witherington (p. 306) finds transistions and conclusions in verses like 34. He says these are the places that Paul emphasizes moral consequences. The "shame-on-you" aspect certainly applies.

Extra source: Conflict and community in Corinth: a socio-rhetorical commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians by Ben Witherington (Grand Rapids MI: Wm B. Eerdmans, c1995 online at http://books.google.com/books?id=HXWNsxX2irkC&pg=PA60&lpg=PA60&dq=Witherington+1st+Corinthians&source=bl&ots=nm3jFPByR2&sig=qyPMM3WWXZvkeWc9PO_GmV-LewI&hl=en&ei=cLUJS7zqLMHTlAfV2-yEBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CBQQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=&f=false

1 Corinthians 15:34

Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame (KJV)

Then: "Awake" translates a Greek word directed to drunks (Baker, p. 229). Paul uses strong language for these party-loving Corinthians, people who walk so close to sin they don't recognize elements of paganism or atheism. Wright (p. 219) points to the need for people to question how an idea matches known characteristics of the Lord. When they let their minds be corrupted, their actions reflect their shameful lack of knowledge of God.

Now: In a quick return to Paul's teachings on resurrection, Baker reminds readers that the author of the resurrection of Christ, and of us, can do all things. He is especially able to change and fit a physical body for life in eternity. If our knowledge of God places limits on his abilities and powers, then surely those foreign ideas are to our shame just as much as they were shameful to the Corinthians.

Extra source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 15:33

Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners (KJV)

Then: Everybody recognized Paul's allusion as a quote, "Bad company destroys good ways" (Witherington, p. 306). It was part of a now lost play called Thais by Menander. Witherington agrees with a suggestion by Fee. Paul is chiding that those people eating in the "temple restaurants" were also imbibing non-Christian theology. The resurrection was a real event essential to God's plan of salvation. With the resurrection of Christ, the forerunner (first fruits) of all following resurrections of believers, Christians live out God's plan. Skepticism does not bring honor, just corruption (Baker, p. 229).

Now: That's not quite what parents say today, but they agree completely with the sentiment. Hanging around with a gang of disreputable characters is a poor way for a teen to grow up to become a God-fearing citizen of heaven. It happens. We don't often think of the church or church people as hanging out with unworhty ideals or philosophies, but Paul's letter warns us, it happens.

Extra source: Conflict and community in Corinth: a socio-rhetorical commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians by Ben Witherington (Grand Rapids MI: Wm B. Eerdmans, c1995 online at http://books.google.com/books?id=HXWNsxX2irkC&pg=PA60&lpg=PA60&dq=Witherington+1st+Corinthians&source=bl&ots=nm3jFPByR2&sig=qyPMM3WWXZvkeWc9PO_GmV-LewI&hl=en&ei=cLUJS7zqLMHTlAfV2-yEBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CBQQ6AEwAw#v=onepage&q=&f=false
Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 15:32

If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die (KJV)

Then: Look at that! the biblical version of "Eat, drink, and be merry." And the Corinthians heard it first. Corinthians also had an advantage of an overland rumor express. They probably knew whether Paul's reference to fighting with beasts was an actual event or a metaphor. Some commentators call the reference an agon, a figurative hellenistic device in which an image substitutes for and describes a speaker's moralistic intent (Collins & Harrington, p.557).

Now: Others read the sentence as another instance of Paul's continued defense against those who believe his leadership is lacking. Since the New Living Testament translation uses a phrase "those people of Ephesus" after the words "wild beasts," Baker (p. 228) pictures Paul's suffering as being physical, emotional and spiritual. At any rate, it is part of the build up to another interim reason to know that resurrection is as actual and real as the creation.

Extra Source: First Corinthians by Raymond F. Collins and Daniel J. Harrington (Collegeville MN: Liturgical Press, c1999) http://books.google.com/books?id=c4VXq9fKoRwC&dq=Sacra+Pagina+and+1st+Corinthians&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=NqEJS7XzEITklAeejdiEBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=11&ved=0CDUQ6AEwCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 15:31

I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. (KJV)

Then: Corinthians probably understood "I protest" to mean "I swear" (Baker, p. 224). Paul wanted them to know of his pride in them. He feels able to boast about their faith and Christ's work in thier lives. What Paul intended the Corinthians to understand through his phrase, "I die daily," is subject to a lot of explanations. John Calvin presents it as a "contempt of death" because of the ever present formidable dangers to his life.

Now: To "die daily for Christ" is an oft preached phrase taken from Paul's ministry. The Wiersbe Bible Commentator states that here it does not mean the same as the theme of Romans 6 "dying to self." Instead it refers to physical dangers(p.494). Baker (p.228) feels that Paul means the slow wearing out of his physical body.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.
Commentaries on the Epistles of Paul the Apostle to the Corinthians by John Calvin translated from the Original Latin, and Collated with the Author's French Version by the Rev. John Pringle, Volume one from the Calvin Translation Society edition and downloaded from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library on line at http://www.biblestudyguide.org/comment/calvin/comm_vol40/htm/i.iv.htm
Wiersbe Bible Commentary The Complete New Testament by Warren W. Wiersbe (Colorado Springs CO: David C. Cook, c2007) http://books.google.com/books?id=Sn18qwyJw9QC&pg=PA453&lpg=PA453&dq=1+Corinthians+15+commentary&source=bl&ots=uEH6xD4cBX&sig=O-Yucl21olPnNQo8wDjVu1LTrs4&hl=en&ei=pzcJS_igCZHTlAe9t4mFBA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=4&ved=0CBEQ6AEwAzhk#v=onepage&q=1%20Corinthians%2015%20commentary&f=false

1 Corinthians 15:30

And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? KJV

Then: Paul seems to be speaking of himself and everyone reading the letter. They all daily risk their lives - even every hour. What's the point if there is no resurrection? As Matthew Henry observes, it made no sense for the apostles to spend their days risking their lives to preach and teach a gospel without prospect of life after death.

Now: Believers in the Western world risk little to profess Christianity. For many it's a formality, a childhood habit which requires little time or thought. For others it's a life centered on the church, work with fellow believers and providing services or sharing their blessings with those who are needy. Some live closer to the edge of economic reality and needy souls seeking unearned wealth. For most, physical safety, vocational livelihoods or personal reputations are not threatened. Yet we hear and are asked to pray for those who walk in Paul's footsteps. It takes a lot to get our attention.

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.xvi.html

1 Corinthians 15:29

Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead?

Then: For Paul and the Corinthians both, the main point of the verse is the absurdity of the act of baptism if there is no resurrection. Without it, what happens to all those who were baptized? Nothing. The Corinthians understood the logic. They also understood what Paul meant by the phrase "baptized for the dead."

Now: Today's Christians understand only the context, but not the phrase or practice of "baptized for the dead." N. T. Wright profers two common understandings (1) a practice of some being baptized for those believers who died (martydom?) before they personally could be baptized or (2) when some Christians were baptized after the loss of a beloved Christian friend. They wanted the hope of reunion. Paul might also mean that anyone who does not believe in Christ is dead - spiritually dead. So he/she takes on the task of being baptized for his/her own dead body. The arguments and ideas are complex and many. A comprehensive review is in the October--November 1995 issue of Biblioteca Sacra. Anyone can read it and be confused too.

Extra Source: "Another Look at 1 Corinthians 15:29, 'Baptized for the Dead'" by John D. Reaume, Bibliotheca Sacra 152 (October-December 1995) 457-75.

1 Corinthians 15:28

And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all

Then: At the end, when Jesus Christ the Son has victoriously conquered all, he will himself be subject to God. Paul gives the Corinthians a picture of the entire church coming forward into God's presence. In his presentation, Paul does not bring up the aspect of mutual submission. He is interested in explaining that in the final order of the universe, the church as the body of Christ, will be brought forward to God the Father through the one who has authority over it. From then on God will be "all in all." N. T. Wright emphasizes that this passage follows the first understanding of "order" as chronological events and concentrates on showing "order" as divine purpose, tasks, and relationships.

Now: In this passage Paul, does not remind the Corinthians about the on-going eternal relationship of God, the Father, with Christ the Son (Baker, p. 224). Paul's purpose is to show the completion of Christ's messianic mission. Paul never actually talks about God as being three in one. But as theologians study his letters, they understand his intent and description to mean one God in three persons.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 15:27

For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him (KJV)

Then: This continued explanation of what's happening in the end times brings to mind both Psalm 110:1 and Psalm 8:6. The Corinthians had probably heard Paul discuss those verses before. The Holy Spirit reveals the meanings to all listeners. Paul is careful to point out that God, part of the triology is not a thing put under Christ. One part of the Godhead cannot be lower than another part.

Now: Commentators are sensitive to all Old Testament allusions because the Holy Spirit reveals the meanings. Some like Henry see a time when Christ works as a redeemer and is not in joint authority with God, the Father. Baker, (p. 223) disagrees. I can't think that it matters, but probably side with Baker. Each part of the triune God has specified work. They do it. The work does not affect standing or authority. God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are still one.

(Cf. - compare my work as a mother, wife, or daughter. By design, I am still one performing different tasks)

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.xvi.html
Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.

1 Corinthians 15:26

The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death (KJV)

Then: What more can be said? This is life victorious for all mankind because of the love of the Father who sent his son to first sustain and then deliver those who believe in him.

Now: Paul states the last step in putting the world back in order (Wright, p. 213). The verse is a confirmation of resurrection. From death to life. That's a promise that all believers can expect to be fulfilled. We cannot, but he can. We love him because he loved us enough to come, to teach, to die and rise again. In a balance of what do we value more, the action or the one who loves us, there is no doubt. Above all else we value the Lord and his love. Without his presence in heaven, there'd be no point in wanting to have life eternal.

1 Corinthians 15:25

For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet (KJV)

Then: Paul's explanation takes a step backward to the Corinthian present. Jesus will reign on earth in the hearts of men for a time. All enemies must be put under his feet. Elsewhere (II Peter 3:9), Peter reminds believers that Christ delays because he wants no one to perish. The Corinthians also had many friends they wished would repent and come to eternity. "Enemies under his feet" reminds Paul and probably some of the Corinthians of Jehovah's intent to make a footstool of all enemies (Psalm 110:1). Baker and other commentators look to the explicated meaning in Matthew 22:44 to understand more of Paul's intent.

Now: Jesus' parable of the five young women who had enough oil for their lamps and five who did not also reveals there will be a time of waiting. Matthew Henry calls this a mediatorial age in which the saints absolutely know resurrection is ahead. Paul's explanation of why we wait is helpful.

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.
Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.xvi.html

1 Corinthians 15:24

Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power (KJV)

Then: This is the first part of a description of Christ's victory. The Corinthians knew what they were hearing. They would be part of the kingdom delivered to God the Father. All opposing rules, authorities and powers will have been conquered, defeated, annihilated. If they didn't shout, "Hurray", they at least had a nice warm feeling of joy inside of them. Who wouldn't?

Now: We each have our own visual images of what that will look like as a actual event. Reading Revelation makes it even more pituresque. Standing with fellow believers, everyone since the beginning of God's plan, can't even be slightly compared to our vision of 2 million plus people on the mall in Washington, DC. Consider individual joy geometrically multiplied by the presence of everyone else. We are thankful for glimpses of heaven and keep wondering about the rest.

1 Corinthians 15:23

But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming (KJV)

Then: What a relief! Corinthians recognize the military language of "in his own order." The captain leads the charge; his troops follow. The enemy's line is broken and victory lies ahead for those who follow him (Baker, p. 222). The imagery of firstfruits again reminds the Corinthians about the designated order of God's plan. At the second coming - the second wave of attack on death - those who are under Christ's command will enter eternal life.

Now: We struggle with the problems of living between the first and second comings. Dr. David Jeremiah in a sermon broadcast Nov. 19, 2009, explained the process. After the fall people lived under the power of Satan. After accepting Christ, they have within them the means to resist Satan, but his power is still rampant. After the second coming, believers in Christ will live in and with the presence of God. Satan's power will be completely eradicated. Sin will be no more. What a relief!

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.
How Can I Be Truly Forgiven? Part 1 by David Jeremiah online at http://www.oneplace.com/ministries/Turning_Point/archives.asp?bcd=2009-11-19

1 Corinthians 15:22

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive (KJV)

Then: People use metaphors to explain ideas. God uses events as metaphors for spiritual truth. So when Paul used these words to vocalize God's plan for salvation, the Corinthians could intuitively grasp its meaning and importance. The concept of salvation was not new to the Corinthians because they'd already been through the struggle of fighting sin and accepting Christ. They had to have been eager to receive this clear explanation. God works through history using events as a way to teach his purpose. For mankind, focused on our place in the center, everything needs to make sense from this point of view. At first all was perfection, then came the fall, but in the end, perfection will reign again. For a long time mankind lived with the hope of a Messiah. With the coming of Christ into the world that hope is explained and reinforced. The resurrection validated God's plan.

Now: "In Adam's fall, we sinned all" was a rhyme in the New England Primer which was used to teach the alphabet and religious principles concurrently. Illiteracy (not being able to read) was the devil's way of keeping people from knowing what the Bible said. Each generation has its own problems with biblical understandings. Believing that there is good in everybody, some cannot grasp the concept that all men are fundamentally flawed. They kick against a different goad than Paul's, but it still classifies as kicking. It took Paul a long time to understand. So too the rest of us. Eventually those who know that Christ is, the Holy Spirit is to be trusted, and God's judgement is sure, do accept that as we all died with the first sin and were pushed out of the Garden, with Christ's punishment, death and resurrection, we can all reenter eternal life.

1 Corinthians 15:21

For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead (KJV)

Then: The Corinthians were ready for the explanation. By man, the actions of Adam and Eve, came the first physicial death. By man, the actions of Christ in living a life without any kind of sin, came resurrection to spiritual life, and the death of death. The Corinthians still lived when the concept was new, they could talk to people who had seen the risen Lord. They could know themselves through the Holy Spirit. Christ led the way so all could be forgiven and resurrected.

Now: We keep on reading the original testimony. We keep on passing the information down generation to generation. We keep on being given the gifts of the Spirit. So like the Corinthians, we are forgiven and look forward to resurrection. We shall have a part in the favor of the first fruit (Henry).

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.xvi.html

1 Corinthians 15:20

But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept (KJV)

Then: Finished listing the consequences of no resurrection, Paul wants the Corinthians remember Christ, the first fruit of those who were raised. Crops grow every season and the early fruit, the one that seems to take forever to ripen, is the most enjoyed when picked and eaten. Since the creation story, people waited for the Lord to send the promised one, and when he did, he was crucified and resurrected. That resurrection was the first of many more to come. The Corinthians can take heart that all they just heard prepared them to address others. Now they could evaluate their own perceptions, solidify their own thoughts and use their conclusions when they in turn help others to leave lives characterized by disbelief in Christ. The Corinthians are now reassured that God's plan lives on.

Now: We sense that this passage, verses 20-28, is a product of Paul's time spent reorienting everything he knew about theology before his visit from Christ. He had to understand it himself. That's why it is easier for us to understand - he used what he knew and gave it to all generations.

1 Corinthians 15:19

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable (KJV)

Then: To think that their belief in Christ only applies to their days on earth means that they are persecuted by Jews and by Caesar without purpose (Henry). Why not abandon it and avoid the pain? This is the third problem or effect in lives of Corinthians who follow Christ.

Now: The promise of believing in Christ sometimes accompanies a perception, that the days of misery on earth, problems of all kinds are gone. This is to misunderstand the work of the Holy Spirit, the life of Christ, and call to follow him. What Jesus promises is to stand with us and make a way through the difficulties. He uses all things for good, purifies us from the evil within us and calls us to show love to others before the day of judgment comes.

Extra Source: Commentary on the Whole Bible Acts to Revelation Vol VI by Matthew Henry online at http://www.ccel.org/ccel/henry/mhc6.iCor.xvi.html

1 Corinthians 15:18

Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished (KJV)

Then: Since the days of resurrection and ascension, the Corinthians had many friends who had already died. Those alive and those who had passed cultivated hope in Christ. Wright reminds readers that without the resurrection, those who have died only have a belief in the route of Hades available to them. i.e., the place where the dead cross the river Styx and stay in an abode of shadowy figures. (The Jewish word was Sheol.) Even here, there was no way out, for Jesus says in Revelation 1:18 that he has the keys of death and Hades (Miller and Miller, p. 240).

Now: We believe Jesus descended into the realm of the dead from I Peter (Jesus went to preach to the spirits in prison). Hades is all that would be left if Christ is not raised from the dead - for those who have already died and for those who are yet to die.

Extra Source: Harper's Bible Dictionary by Madeleine S. Miller and J. Lane Miller (New York: Harper and Row, Pub., c1961.

1 Corinthians 15:17

And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins (KJV)

Then: Here are two depressing consequences of Christ not being raised - no one is forgiven and faith is useless. The Corinthians and everyone else are still under the law and God still condemns them. These are intertwined results with neither being more important than the other. In looking at the value of belief from the opposite point of view, Thiselton's (p. 1220) discussion notes that a peson's faith has nothing to do with the actuality of the truth. It has no power at all. As Christ said, all power and authority resides in him (Matt.28:18). Whether the Corinthians believed or didn't believe, If Christ was not raised then that truth made everything else useless.

Now: Without the resurrection, we are also still condemned. No escape has been provided. There is no hope, nor joy. The agent of change was crucified in vain. Faith in Christ is grounded in nothing. Like the Corinthians, our faith or lack of it has no effect on that which is truth. It neither nullifies or verifies. Faith can only recognize, accept and align with truth.

Extra source: The First Epistle to the Corinthians: a commentary on the Greek text by Anthony C. Thiselton (Authentic Media, c2000) online at http://books.google.com/books?id=IHG_DNLpmroC&dq=1st+Corinthian+commentaries&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=W9fQSpC1GILplAfHiumoCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=11&ved=0CB8Q6AEwCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false

1 Corinthians 15:16

For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised (KJV)

Then: In the previous verses, Paul worked with the main concerns of the apostles (teachers) if there were no resurrection. With this verse he turns to the main concerns of all believers if there be no resurrection (Baker, p. 219). Those consequences are the worst. If the dead don't rise, that is if the dead can't rise, then it did not happen with Christ. Corinthians need to understand what that means to their personal faith and their destiny as human beings.

Now: Commentators are all over the map in discussing this passage - rhetorical organization, physical and spiritual ideas of resurrection, Paul's personal relationship to the content, God's purpose in resurrection, etc (Thiselton, p. 1169-1181). The more one reads, the more important it is to return to Paul's succinct presentation. The logic in this verse is simple. If true, its implications lead to nothingness. Those who know the Christ immediately know its theoretical implausibility. Even the idea of Christ's not being resurrected trashes all that is known about God's original plan in the Garden to allow people a way of escape. ("He shall bruise thy head," Geneis 3:15).

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.
The First Epistle to the Corinthians: a commentary on the Greek text by Anthony C. Thiselton (Authentic Media, c2000) online at http://books.google.com/books?id=IHG_DNLpmroC&dq=1st+Corinthian+commentaries&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=W9fQSpC1GILplAfHiumoCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=11&ved=0CB8Q6AEwCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false

1 Corinthians 15:15

Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not (KJV)

Then: Corinthians now hear a third point(Baker, p. 219). If Christ did not rise from the dead, then all those five hundred plus witnesses, the disciples, the apostles and Paul himself are liars. Even worse, they are swearing to God that what they said was true. How could that many people say the same thing and none state otherwise? How could so many risk their fate with the God of heaven? It couldn't be. They didn't lie. Christ rose.

Now: No one really takes time to say that the resurrection didn't happen. Usually atheists just deny the existence of God. They never get to the point of considering resurrection. But those who believe concentrate on the resurrection, because that event is the "word of the cross" (Thiselton quotes a discussion by Harrisville, p. 1171).

Extra Source: Cornerstone Biblical Commentary 1 Corinthians (William Baker), 2 Corinthians (Ralph Martin & Carl Toney), ed. by Philip Comfort. Carol Stream: Tyndale House Publishers, c2006.
The First Epistle to the Corinthians: a commentary on the Greek text by Anthony C. Thiselton (Authentic Media, c2000) online at http://books.google.com/books?id=IHG_DNLpmroC&dq=1st+Corinthian+commentaries&printsec=frontcover&source=in&hl=en&ei=W9fQSpC1GILplAfHiumoCg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=11&ved=0CB8Q6AEwCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false