Podcasts about Corinthian

Paul builds his case for unity in the Corinthian church by piling seven arguments on top of one another. How do those arguments fit together?

Most people are going to read your life long before they ever read the Bible. That means you are already a letter. The only question is whether the writing is legible — whether the people in your world can actually make out the message, or whether what they're reading in your life doesn't match what you say you believe. In episode 3 of the A Life Unleashed series, Christine Caine opens 2 Corinthians 3:1–3 and unpacks one of the most quietly confronting images Paul ever gave the church: you are a living letter, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, known and read by everyone. In this episode, Christine Caine shows that the question of Christian witness is not primarily about what we say. It's about what our lives communicate when no one is asking. She takes us into the context of Paul's defense of his apostolic authority to the Corinthian church, where his letter of recommendation wasn't a document but a community of people whose changed lives were the proof of the gospel. She makes the case that the same is true for us: every believer is a living letter sent into a specific sphere of influence (an office, a school, a street, a sports team) and we may be the only letter Jesus has sent to that exact place. Christine is honest about what makes a letter illegible and what it looks like to be deliberately, consistently readable in a world that is watching. The takeaway that will stay with you: a Christian is a walking memo from God to a lost world, so let's make sure what we're communicating is the good news of the hope of Jesus. ✨ If you've ever asked questions like… ✅ Does how I live as a Christian actually matter to people who don't believe? ✅ How do I share my faith when my actions haven't always matched my words? ✅ What does it mean to be a witness? Is that just for pastors and leaders? ✅ Why does it feel like people expect more from Christians than from anyone else? ✅ How do I live out my faith consistently when life is messy and I keep falling short? ✅ What does it look like to be sent by God into my specific context — work, family, school? ✅ How do I make Jesus visible to people who would never walk into a church? …then this is your episode.

In Paul's absence, the Corinthian church had begun to follow new teachers who had positioned themselves as superior in numerous ways, all of which were worldly and pompous. They wanted Paul to be like them, bold, arrogant, provocative, and brash. Paul defends the authority he has over the Corinthian church as a true apostle and sarcastically boasts to compare himself to the ones he calls “Super-apostles.” These men were well-spoken, came with letters, and requested payment for their teaching, whereas Paul was humble, loyal, and worked without burdening the church financially. As he concludes, Paul assures them that when he comes, he will not be lenient, but rather he will come with boldness in order to build up the body. 2 Corinthians 10 - 1:13 .  2 Corinthians 11 - 4:29 .  2 Corinthians 12 - 11:06 .  2 Corinthians 13 - 15:49 .  Isaiah 14 - 18:41 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Paul continues to urge the Corinthian to live lives that are fully devoted to the Lord God, asking them to open their hearts once again to him and to the ministry of the gospel. He explains that his commendation comes from a life that is full of dichotomies, and urges them to consider the sacrifices they are making as proof that they are zealous for the advance of the gospel. Finally, Paul makes an appeal to the church to be diligent and intentional with the task of setting aside money to give to the work of ministry and missions. One church is called upon to support another out of the abundant riches of grace and provision given by the Lord. 2 Corinthians 6 - 1:08 .  2 Corinthians 7 - 4:17 .  2 Corinthians 8 - 8:38 .  2 Corinthians 9 – 12:43 .  Isaiah 13 - 15:45 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Paul loves the church in Corinth, but at the writing of this letter, the feeling wasn't entirely mutual. The Corinthian church had received a severe letter from Paul that contained instructions about disciplining a church member. This could be the man mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5 or it could be some other person within the church. Whatever the case may be, it pained the church. Paul writes this opening section to bring comfort to the church, to reaffirm his love for them, and to encourage the Corinthians to continue to love him, too. His confidence comes, not from letters of recommendation written by men, but from the Spirit who gives life and opens the eyes of men to see the light of the gospel. 2 Corinthians 1 - 1:08 .  2 Corinthians 2 - 5:53 .  2 Corinthians 3 - 9:45 .  2 Corinthians 4 - 12:56 .  2 Corinthians 5 - 16:21 .  Isaiah 12 – 20:25 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

How do we live out Christianity without missing the point? The Corinthian church boasted about spiritual gifts and ecstatic experiences but missed what mattered. Paul tells them their spirituality means nothing without love. We too can make the same mistake by focusing on good things that aren't the most important. Pastor Jordan Kologe explores 1 Corinthians 13, explaining what love is not, what it is, and why it lasts.

The sermon argues that the cure for church division is not found in cultural relevance or human wisdom, but exclusively in the preeminence of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 2, the speaker contrasts Paul's method of preaching with the Corinthian desire for eloquent rhetoric, emphasizing that true ministry relies on the power of the Holy Spirit rather than worldly appeal. The central message asserts that a church focused on activities or social success without the clear proclamation of the gospel becomes spiritually weak and indistinguishable from secular organizations. By examining the Trinitarian framework of Paul's approach, the text highlights that divine wisdom is hidden from the world but revealed to believers through the eternal plan of the Father. Ultimately, the preacher calls for a return to the foundational priority of exalting Christ as the sole source of spiritual strength and unity.

The sermon explores the metaphor of the church as the body of Christ, emphasizing that every believer receives specific spiritual gifts at salvation for the common good. It addresses the Corinthian church's tendency to covet prominent gifts and warns against division by highlighting the essential nature of every member, regardless of visibility or perceived importance. The preacher clarifies that baptism into the Holy Spirit occurs instantly upon faith in Jesus Christ, establishing a permanent union with other believers. Unity is maintained when each individual accepts their God-ordained role and cares for one another, rather than seeking status or comparing gifts. Ultimately, the message calls for selfless service and mutual support to glorify God and effectively advance His kingdom.

The sermon argues that the cure for church division is not found in cultural relevance or human wisdom, but exclusively in the preeminence of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 2, the speaker contrasts Paul's method of preaching with the Corinthian desire for eloquent rhetoric, emphasizing that true ministry relies on the power of the Holy Spirit rather than worldly appeal. The central message asserts that a church focused on activities or social success without the clear proclamation of the gospel becomes spiritually weak and indistinguishable from secular organizations. By examining the Trinitarian framework of Paul's approach, the text highlights that divine wisdom is hidden from the world but revealed to believers through the eternal plan of the Father. Ultimately, the preacher calls for a return to the foundational priority of exalting Christ as the sole source of spiritual strength and unity.

The sermon argues that the cure for church division is not found in cultural relevance or human wisdom, but exclusively in the preeminence of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 2, the speaker contrasts Paul's method of preaching with the Corinthian desire for eloquent rhetoric, emphasizing that true ministry relies on the power of the Holy Spirit rather than worldly appeal. The central message asserts that a church focused on activities or social success without the clear proclamation of the gospel becomes spiritually weak and indistinguishable from secular organizations. By examining the Trinitarian framework of Paul's approach, the text highlights that divine wisdom is hidden from the world but revealed to believers through the eternal plan of the Father. Ultimately, the preacher calls for a return to the foundational priority of exalting Christ as the sole source of spiritual strength and unity.

In light of the division and quarreling infesting the Corinthian church, Paul reminds them of cornerstone truths about the church. The church belongs to Christ, our superior source of wisdom as His people is found in God, and He has graciously given to us all things through the Lord Jesus Christ. These powerful reminders orient our hearts to be driven to seek His glory in all things!

First Corinthians 8 addresses a question that was not explicitly forbidden in Scripture: whether believers should eat meat that had been sacrificed to idols. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef explains how Paul guided the Corinthian church through an issue that required wisdom, conscience, and sensitivity to others. In first-century Corinth, much of the available meat had previously been offered to idols. Some mature believers understood that idols were nothing and ate with a clear conscience. Others, especially those recently converted from pagan worship, could not eat without violating their conscience. Neither group was necessarily sinning—but both needed to walk in love. Dr. Youssef reminds us that while the cultural issues may differ today, the principle remains the same. Believers must avoid both legalism and license. Legalism measures spirituality by man-made rules, while license twists Christian liberty into permission to sin. But Biblical freedom is never freedom to sin—it is freedom to serve Christ and love others. Gray areas should not divide the body of Christ. Those who enjoy freedom in Christ must not flaunt that freedom before weaker believers, and those with more sensitive consciences must not treat secondary issues as matters of salvation. God has given His people a Spirit-filled life—not a rule-bound life—so we can walk in humility, wisdom, and love. Prayer: Lord, I rejoice in the freedom I have in You. Help me pursue righteousness toward my brothers and sisters in Christ through humility and love. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  “Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that ‘We all possess knowledge.' But knowledge puffs up while love builds up” (1 Corinthians 8:1). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Healthy Living in a Sick World, Knowledge Must Bow to Love: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Packinghouse's Sunday morning worship service from August 9, 2026. Paul addresses a difficult passage about head coverings, men and women, and authority by looking at the cultural setting of first-century Corinth and pointing to the larger principle of voluntary submission. The teaching emphasizes that husbands and wives are equal in value before God while having different roles within marriage, with Christ ultimately being the head of every believer. Pastor Ed explains that many of the specific practices surrounding hair and head coverings reflected Corinthian culture rather than a dress code Christians must follow today. He closes by pointing to the way Jesus valued women and reminding us that the greater question is whether we have willingly surrendered our lives to Christ. - Ed Rea - Sunday, August 9, 2026

Introduction: How to Have a Church Service, God's Way (1 Corinthians 14:26-40) BUILD UP believers. (1 Cor 14:26b) ELIMINATE the chaos. (1 Cor 14:27-33a) WOMEN don't preach. (1 Cor 14:33b-35) 1 Timothy 2:12-14 - I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve; and Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. None of this is up for DEBATE . (1 Cor 14:36-40) Sermon Notes (PDF): BLANKHint: Highlight blanks above for answers! Questions and Answers: What Should a Worship Service Look Like? Jeff Miller Download Audio Transcript 00:36You know, just a few days ago, in this very room, it was complete chaos. It was so good. I mean, VBS, it was complete chaos, right? You're going to hear more about it later. We're going to show you a video. But just kids on top of kids, people screaming and throwing. There was slime dripping from the ceiling. Wasn't supposed to, but there was.01:06And it was just, it was chaos and it was beautiful. Which is fine for vacation Bible school, but chaos is not something that should describe Sunday morning. And that takes us to the passage we're looking at today. So I'm going to ask you to please pray for me.01:36Faithfully represent God's Word. That's all we try to do here at Harvest Bible Chapel. We're not preaching our opinion or scratching itchy ears. We just want to represent the Word of God. And I'm asking you to please pray for me to do that faithfully, and I will pray for you to receive what it is that the Lord has said in His Word. All right? Let's just take a moment and pray.02:09Father, when we open the Bible, the question is, is this from God?02:21Father, we have solidly come to that conclusion.02:25We believe that this is your word.02:28When it says things that we like, and when it says things that we maybe struggle to believe, It's your word. And I pray today, Father, for all of us. You eliminate any distractions or preconceived notions and allow us to receive what it is that your word actually says. We pray in Jesus' name. And all of God's people said, Amen. 1 Corinthians chapter 14. Chapters 11 through 14.03:04in 1 Corinthians is all about corporate worship. Right? And we've been talking through this series. We had a little break from Pastor Taylor's excellent message taking us back to the Old Testament. But in this section in particular where we find ourselves, we're talking about speaking in tongues. And you can go back and review those. But tongues, there was a legit miracle gift. And if you study your Bibles, Speaking in tongues was speaking a known language. All right. It was an existing language, but the speaker, they didn't know that language. They didn't study, but they would. It'd be like if I got up and started speaking Mandarin. I don't know Mandarin, but I started speaking Mandarin because there were Mandarin speaking people in the congregation. That's what the gift of tongues was about. We saw. Previously, the tongues was a sign of judgment.04:04Israel had rejected the Messiah. And tongues was God's way of saying, okay, you're going to hear a language you don't understand because you've rejected me. I'm moving on to other people. And it was for the season of transition from the old covenant to the new covenant. We saw in chapter 13, verse eight, he said, tongues will cease. It's going to come to an end. It was only for a season.04:34The Pagan Practice of Tongues. In many pagan religions, there would be this ecstatic screaming of sounds. They weren't real languages. It's just screaming this gibberish. And the Corinthians brought that into church. It's chaos. There's chaos. Look at verse 26, where we left off last time. Verse 26. Paul says, What then, brothers? When you come together, each one has a hymn, a lesson, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. Stop right there. That's not a command, by the way. He's describing the chaos. He's like, here's what your church service is. Everybody shows up, and everybody is like, ooh, ooh, me, I want to teach. I want to speak in tongues. I'm going to sing. And everybody was doing it.05:33And it was just this circus. He says your worship services are just chaos. You have the gibberish. You have misusing the real gift of speaking in tongues. You have the debacle that you've made the Lord's Supper. You have women preaching. You have people showing off. Your services are a complete mess. And it'd be real easy for us to look.06:03and say, wow, yeah, glad we've matured from that. But sadly, many things that are called church services are still a real mess. What have we turned worshiping our Savior God, what have we turned that into? For some churches, it's putting on a concert and giving a pep talk.06:33heresy, screaming gibberish, holy laughter, holy barking, craziness, chaos. So much being done in the name of worshiping the Lord that is anything but actually worshiping the Lord. And you're like, whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa, hang on a second, hang on.07:01Who says what should happen in a church service anyways? Well, I would suggest to you God. The God that we worship has told us how we should worship. So very simply, in this passage we're looking at today, Paul is outlining here's what a worship service should be. That's what this passage is. What should happen in a church service? Paul's like, this is what should happen right here.07:31So, on your outline, how to have a church service God's way. Number one, first thing has to happen, absolutely has to happen. He says it first because this has to be the primary drive. Number one is build up believers. Build up believers. Look at the end of verse 26. He says, let all things be done.08:01For building up.08:07Here's a philosophical slash theological question for you.08:11Who is church service for?08:13Is it for believers or for unbelievers?08:19Biblically, church service is for believers.08:23Now listen, if you're here today and you're not a believer and somebody invited you, we're so glad that you're here.08:29But we're going to tell you to receive Christ. We're going to tell you to believe what the believers here believe. That we are, by nature and by birth, we are alienated sinners from God. And God reconciled us to himself through the death of his son, Jesus Christ. And he commands us. He commands us to turn from our sin and to believe in Jesus Christ. And when you do, you are saved. You are a child of God. That's the gospel.08:59The goal biblically in our worship service should be building up believers. Like, what parts of the service? Well, your Bible says the same thing that mine does. Let all things, all things be done for building up. It's teaching God's truth and teaching believers how to apply God's truth. I'm not going to spend a lot of time on this because we have talked so much about this through 1 Corinthians chapter 14.09:29Church is where you go to give, not go to get. Over and over and over and over and over. Paul says edify, build up, edify, build up. It's just been the theme of this whole chapter. Paul says when you go to church, you should go to church ready to serve other people. That should be your mindset. I'm not here to get, I'm here to give. You're like, well, what about evangelism?10:01I'll study the book of Acts. When believers are built up, they are prepared to reach the lost in their lives. There's lost people in your life, in your sphere of friends, influence. You need to be built up here so you can go to them and share the gospel of Christ. The church is not what's in it for me, but.10:29Everything we do here has to have the mindset of what can we do to build up believers. That's what he says. So number one, how to have a church service God's way, build up believers. Number two, he says, eliminate the chaos. You've got to eliminate the chaos. Here he talks about two gifts. Just for that day that were not used appropriately in Corinth. Tongues, even the legit, They weren't doing that right. And prophesying. And understand again, the New Testament was being written during this day. So prophets were getting new revelation from God. We don't get that now that the Bible is complete. Right? Those blank pages in the back of your Bible aren't for you adding to Scripture. That's not what that's for.11:32But there were two gifts in that day that were being wildly misused, and it was contributing to the chaos. Tongues and prophecy. First, he addresses tongues. Okay? Legit gift of speaking in tongues. How do we do it? How do we do it? Look at verse 27. He says, and let someone interpret.12:02But if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God.12:10First of all, speaking in tongues.12:12They're assuming here, Paul's assuming, that someone is present in church who speaks a foreign language.12:19And you see his guidelines.12:20He goes, okay, two or three of you, not everyone, and take turns and you have to have an interpreter for the sake of the people there that don't speak that language. Right? If somebody's here that speaks Mandarin and I got up and spoke Mandarin, like the rest of you are like, what's going on? You need an interpreter to say, here is what is being said. That's how the gift works. Again, we studied all that several weeks ago. But then he says, if you don't have an interpreter, just sit there and pray silently.12:59So let me ask you.13:01If you've been to or seen a Pentecostal or Charismatic church service, is that how it's done?13:07Is that typically how speaking in tongues happens?13:12You're afraid to say, aren't you?13:15All right.13:16No, that's not how people do it.13:20It's chaos.13:22And that's what Paul's saying.13:23Are you going to knock that chaos off?13:25Right? Then he talks about prophesying. Look at verses 29 through 31. Prophesying. He goes, let two or three prophets speak. Let the others weigh what is said. If a revelation is made to another sitting there, let the first be silent. For you can all prophesy one by one so that all may learn and all be encouraged.13:55Stop there. Again, prophesying. Prophesying. He's like, just again, two or three. Right? And let the others discern if what is being said is actually from God. Weigh it. Right? And again, some people were preaching already revealed information. Maybe preaching something from the Old Testament. And in this day, as the New Testament was being written and God was giving revelation, There'd be somebody sitting there in church that God would give a revelation to. And Paul says, if that guy has a revelation, the guy that's speaking the old information, have him sit down. Let new revelation guys speak. Right? Then look at verse 32. He says, and the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets.14:55What in the world does that mean? It means this. The church was chaos, right? So you pull a guy aside that is a... He just can't help it. He comes to church and he's belting it out. I'm going to prophesy. And he's contributing to the chaos. And it's like, you're not supposed to do that. Remember, two or three...15:25What's he gonna say? Here's what he's gonna say. He's gonna say, I can't help it. I can't help it. Oh, and the spirit comes on me. I just can't help it. I just it just comes out. I can't control myself. And and that's why, you know, you want me to be quiet, but I can't be quiet. Because when the spirit's on me, I just can't be quiet. And verse 32, Paul's like wrong. The spirit of prophets are subject to the prophets, meaning this.15:55He's saying, every spiritual gift is used under the complete control of the one who has the gift.16:03The Holy Spirit does not come upon a person and make that person lose control of themselves.16:10That does not happen.16:12Okay?16:13That does not happen.16:15Paul says, your gifts are under your control.16:20Right?16:21So the exact ways these two gifts were used were Corinth specific, but there's a principle that certainly holds for us today. And it's look at verse 33. The first part, he says, for God is not a God of confusion, but of peace. Paul says a service to worship God should represent God's care.16:52God is a God of peace. He's not a God of confusion. He said, listen, church cannot be a free for all. So you have to eliminate any chaos. Worship has to be orderly because otherwise people will not get built up. And that is why we're here is to build each other up. So that's what he's saying here. Eliminate the chaos. You've got to eliminate the chaos.17:20So how to have a church service God's way, build up believers, eliminate the chaos. Number three, he says, women don't preach. Women don't preach. Look at what he says. Now, the second half of verse 33, it actually goes with this section, not the previous section, right? In my Bible, it's actually indented as a new paragraph, and that's appropriate.17:51He says, As in all the churches of the saints, the women should keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak, but should be in submission, as the law also says.18:08All the churches.18:10All the churches.18:11Do you notice that?18:13All the churches.18:14Was it just a problem in Corinth?18:17Apparently not.18:19All the churches.18:21Was it just a problem in the first century?18:25All the churches.18:26Today.18:27Today.18:29Look, I never.18:31I can't remember a period of my life.18:39Where we as a culture have been so messed up about gender issues.18:43I just don't understand that.18:46One of the first things little kids learn.18:50We're so confused about gender stuff, right? Look at our culture. Gender is fluid. I was born one way, but now I can be another way, right? We have people in prominent positions that can't define what a woman is. And some of the same people saying that men can get pregnant. We have trans men or trans women. I can't ever remember.19:18The man who's dressed like a woman playing woman's sports, whatever that is. We're just so mixed up over gender things. And we in the church are like, well, we're not mixed up over gender issues. We have a big one. Let's talk about it. You know, the big gender issue in the church, can women be pastors?19:49It's a hot button issue. But I want you to hear me. The Bible is clear and it has not changed. Women are not to preach in church. And listen, I want you to hear me out, okay? You put your church clothes on and you showed up. So can you just stay and hear me out? I am not anti-woman. I'm married to one.20:19Without a doubt, my absolute most favorite human on the planet is a woman. And there's not even a close second. Okay, I'm not anti-woman. I'm not anti-woman. My mother, rest her soul, my mother was a woman. My sister, also a woman. We have so many faithful servants of Christ here in this church.20:48at this church.20:49I am not anti-woman.20:51I am not anti-woman.20:55But I'm also very much pro-Bible.21:00And the Bible straightforwardly says that the role of pastor, elder, preacher, shepherd, all the same thing.21:10The Bible clearly says that role is for men.21:17It's not my opinion.21:19That wasn't the consensus of the elder think tank. That's what the Bible says. Now you said you'd hear me out. There are so many arguments for pro-women pastors. So many arguments. I'm just going to share a few of them. Some people argue pro-woman pastor. Some people say, hey, hey, hey, look, Women are equal.21:49All right.21:50That's awfully sexist of you.21:52Women are equal.21:53Yes.21:54Yes.21:56Women aren't equal, but equal does not mean the same.22:02Equal does not mean we all have the same roles.22:04Where you work, I'm sure that you're equal with your boss.22:09But you have different roles.22:11Okay.22:13So yes, equal.22:15Not same.22:18Here's another pro-woman-pastor argument I've heard several times. Like, I know this woman pastor and she's fantastic. I went to this church and they had this woman pastor. She's fantastic. It just doesn't matter how good of a speaker you thought she was. A woman pastor is not a thing. Study your Bibles. There is no teaching in the Old Testament.22:45for installing a woman as a priest. And there's no teaching in the New Testament on how to install a woman as a pastor. In fact, all of the instructions for priests in the Old Testament, for pastors, shepherds, elders in the New Testament, it's directed towards men. Titus 1.6 says that elders, pastors should be the husband of one wife. Assuming, Paul was assuming that this was a, role for men.23:18But as soon as you say that, as soon as you say, well, there's no example of women pastors in the Bible.23:25As soon as you say that, some of you might already be thinking it.23:31Somebody thinks they got the trump card on that.23:33They're like, ah, what about Deborah?23:39You heard that one?23:39What about Deborah?23:43Deborah?23:43If you're unfamiliar with the story, I'll paraphrase it for you. Judges chapters 4 and 5. God called a man named Barak to serve him in leading Israel, and he wussed out. And Deborah had to step up and lead, because the man that God called was a chicken.24:16Oh, by the way, this is in the book of Judges. Deborah wasn't a pastor. All right. She wasn't even a priest. She was a military leader. That's what a judge was. Oh, and by the way, if you're looking in your Bible for examples on how to faithfully love and serve and obey and follow the Lord, I would not suggest going to the book of Judges for examples of that. Have you read the book of Judges? It is the craziest book of the Bible. Everyone did what was right in their own eyes. The stuff that happens is just crazy. But somebody comes along and says, well, Deborah. Deborah wasn't a pastor. Deborah wasn't a pastor. But then our more New Testament minded people, say, oh, I know who, you say no woman pastors, but what about, what about, what about Tequila and Priscilla? And I'm like, well, it's Akila and Priscilla, but I know who you're talking about. Acts chapter 18. These two together taught Apollos the way of the Lord more excellently, but it doesn't say anything in that passage about Priscilla being a pastor. It just doesn't say that. It'd be like if a newer believer came to church today, all fired up, all fired up, and their theology is a little off. And I'm like, hey, why don't you go to lunch with the calls? And Matt and Lexi take this person to lunch and teach them the Word of God. That doesn't make Lexi a pastor, all right?26:13A disciple maker, yes, but not a pastor. Neither was Priscilla. But here by far is the biggest objection that you hear. You know it's coming. When you say, well, you shouldn't have women pastors. The Bible says you shouldn't have women pastors. You know what the number one objection is to that. Well, that was just cultural. You hear that one? That was just cultural.26:43back then. What you have to understand in the first century Corinth culture, the first century Ephesian culture, what you've got to understand about the first century culture is they really hated women back then. Look at what Paul told Timothy, 1 Timothy 2. We're not going to unpack all this, but I just want you to see one thing here. Paul says, I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man. Rather, she is to remain quiet. Exactly what he says here. 1 Corinthians 14. Look, for Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not deceived, but the woman was deceived and became a transgressor. Now, we're not going to unpack all that, but just one thing I want you to note. Paul's reasoning. Paul's reasoning that the woman is not to teach, or preach in church? His reasoning, is it cultural or is it theological? What's his reason? It's theological. And I've had people come at me hard wanting to argue this, and I show them this passage, and their answer is, well, it looks theological, but, but, no, no, no, Corinthian culture. Like, no, no, no, but, look, his reasoning is theological. You can study that yourself. Look at verse 34 again.28:11Back in 1 Corinthians 14. Look at the last phrase here. He says, they are not permitted to speak, but look at this, but should be in submission as the law also says. As the law also says. Again, is his reasoning culture or theological? Like, well, what law? Authority was established at creation. Genesis 3, verse 16.28:43Women are not to be in authority over men, but in submission. And as soon as you say submission, people ready to throw down. Cash me outside, right? You're ready to fight. Because people think that when we say submission, what we mean is weakness. And we've preached this, we've taught this so many times, submission is not weakness.29:11Jesus Christ was in perfect submission to his father for every single thing that he did. You would not dare call him weak. Submission is strength. It takes strength to trust God by submitting to God's established authority. That takes strength. So we talk about women pastors, women not being pastors. We're not talking about issues of equality or talent or ability. We're just we're talking about roles. It's just roles.29:41God says, here's things that I want men to do, and here's things I want women to do. It's just that. And I got to tell you, church, I agree with the late, great John MacArthur, who many times I've heard him teach. The most obvious evidence that a church has abandoned the Word of God is when they have a woman pastor. He goes on. Look at verse 35.30:13He says, if there's anything they desire to learn, let them ask their husbands at home.30:19For it is shameful for a woman to speak in church.30:26It's shameful for a woman to speak in church.30:28The word shameful means it's a blemish on the church.30:32Not what it says.30:33Speak in church.30:34Speak.30:36Look at the context of the passage.30:37That's why we study the Bible in its context.30:40When it says speak, It's not like a woman walks in the door here. Hi, hi, where's your bathroom? It's like, keep your mouth shut, woman! Take your pagan ways out of here! You are not to speak. Look at the context. What's he talking about? He's talking about teaching and preaching in the church service, right? That's the obvious context. Yes, women can teach women. The Bible says, Titus chapter 2. Children.31:11He's talking here that a woman should not be up here preaching to the whole congregation. You have questions? He says, don't just shout them out in church. Men, don't do that either, all right? If you have questions, ask them in small group, ask them in Bible study, ask them in precepts, ask them whatever. Just not during church service, right? He says, ask your husbands. So husbands, You may be ready to answer some questions, especially after this sermon. If you don't have a husband, if you don't have a husband, a brother, a parent, a small group leader, an elder, yeah, if you're not married, I'm sure any of our elders would be glad to take a phone call from you and answer a question. See, God has a plan for order.32:10roles in the church. Faith means I trust God by doing things His way. And I know, look, I know. I know I'm going to get some texts and I'm going to get some emails because people are going to want to argue this. Right? And in Paul's day, as he wrote this letter and sent it off, He knew that people were going to want to argue this. Which is why I can honestly say I'm so thankful for this last section. Number four, Paul says none of this is up for debate. He knows as soon as you say, look, women should not be pastors. Women should not be preaching in church. People want to fight. And Paul says it's not up for debate.33:09liberal, church-minded, charismatic, feminist objections. And he goes pretty hard in the paint in the end of this. All right? So brace yourself. Look at verse 36. He says, or was it from you that the Word of God came? Or are you the only ones that has reached? See, Paul knew there were people going to read this, and they're like, I really think we should all speak in tongues. And I really think women should be pastors. And Paul's like, oh, oh, are you the authority? Oh, I'm sorry. Did somebody die and make you the expert? That's what Paul's saying. No. Look at verse 37. He says, if anyone thinks that he is a prophet or spiritual, he should acknowledge that the things I am writing to you are a commandment.34:09of the Lord. Listen, if you're spiritual, if you're really mature in your faith, you're going to acknowledge that this is from God. It's not cultural. It's not man's opinion. It's not something to be argued. Paul says God is commanding all of this. Verse 38. Pretty straightforward verse. Look at verse 38. He says, if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.34:41Paul says, if you refuse to accept this, we refuse to accept you.34:50That's pretty straightforward.34:53Paul's saying, listen, a woman pastor is not a pastor.34:58And you're like, well, I think she is.34:59Paul's like, well, we don't recognize you.35:05Paul says, a church without order is not a church.35:08You can call yourself what you want.35:10But if you're calling yourself a church, but you're not having a worship service that follows an order and follows these biblical guidelines for teaching and for roles, because you're just not a church.35:27If anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.35:30So, verse 39, so my brothers, Earnestly desire to prophesy and do not forbid speaking in tongues. That's the call back to everything that we've talked about in this section. Prophecy, tongues, they were legit gifts in those days. The way that God used them. And that's what Paul's saying here. He goes, yeah, there's legit gifts here. Do them appropriately. Do it right. Do it right. And verse 40.36:04All of this was the introduction. Here's the sermon. Verse 40 is really the thesis of the whole passage. Paul says, but all things should be done decently and in order. Decently. The word decently means beautifully. It means in order. You're like, well, how are, What does that mean? You know, it would be like a man looking at his wife. Say, you know, you're put together perfectly. Everything is just in the right place. And you, everything is just, you're beautiful because there's just such an order and structure to you. Man, don't say that.37:05Everything just fits together on you. Maybe not, but you see the point. Everything fits together. Like, it's all working. It's all in harmony. It's so beautiful. That's what he's saying your worship service needs to be. Everything should fit together. Everything should be harmonious, beautiful. Your Bible might translate it decent.37:34It says, in order, in order, sequence, not chaos. Sequence, not chaos. God is beautiful. God has perfect harmony. And God rules the universe with clear order. So a worship service absolutely must reflect the God that we worship.38:04So our worship team makes their way up. I'd like you to bow your heads with me please. Father in heaven, sometimes your ways are hard to explain. But you haven't commanded us to explain you. You've commanded us to obey you. And your word is very clear.38:35that when we come together to worship, there are things that must happen, there are some things that must not happen.38:46And I'm sure as we go through this, I'm sure some point of this message, for every single one of us, probably each of us have experienced some point of tension.39:01Father help us to be like the Bereans look closely at your word are these things true and resolve that we're all called to submission ultimately Father we're called to submission to you and your word so I pray Father for Harvest Bible Chapel that as we gather for worship I pray Father that there is building up I pray that people are encouraged and edified.39:35And I pray, Father, that you look at all of this and you would regard it as beautiful.39:45You deserve everything we can give you.39:50You deserve so much more than that.39:53But let our hearts, Father, worship you in spirit and in truth.39:59We pray in Jesus' name.40:01Amen. Small Group DiscussionRead 1 Corinthians 14:26-40What was your big take-away from this passage / message?All things must “be done for building up” (1 Cor 14:26). List some ways “building up” happens in church.What arguments have you heard for having a woman pastor? What does 1 Cor 14:33-35 say about women preaching in church?BreakoutPray for one another.

Sermon on 2 Corinthians 4:16--5:10. This is the fourth sermon in our seven-week sermon series called Church Work.In a world as complex and hard to navigate as our own, we might wonder what issues we ought to care about. What is the work of the church in the world? As we spend time with Paul's second letter to the Corinthian church, we can discern several tasks that are the church's to do. Although we live in a very different time and place than did the believers in Corinth, we have been called by the same God to share the same good news to the world, and each week we'll focus on what we can do as we love God and others today.In this sermon, we explore how earthly life is temporary, but as resurrection people we walk by faith, loving one another.

The sermon contrasts the empty promises of the wealthy Corinthian church with the joyful, sacrificial generosity of the impoverished Macedonian believers. It argues that a church's public reputation should be defined by its love and giving rather than theological precision or doctrinal debates. True motivation for Christian service and financial support does not stem from willpower or guilt, but from meditating on Christ's poverty and the spiritual riches He secured for believers. The preacher exhorts the congregation to examine their own spiritual gifts and use them actively to serve the body of Christ. Ultimately, obedience flows from gratitude for the gospel, transforming duty into a cheerful offering that glorifies God.

The sermon contrasts the empty promises of the wealthy Corinthian church with the joyful, sacrificial generosity of the impoverished Macedonian believers. It argues that a church's public reputation should be defined by its love and giving rather than theological precision or doctrinal debates. True motivation for Christian service and financial support does not stem from willpower or guilt, but from meditating on Christ's poverty and the spiritual riches He secured for believers. The preacher exhorts the congregation to examine their own spiritual gifts and use them actively to serve the body of Christ. Ultimately, obedience flows from gratitude for the gospel, transforming duty into a cheerful offering that glorifies God.

The sermon contrasts the empty promises of the wealthy Corinthian church with the joyful, sacrificial generosity of the impoverished Macedonian believers. It argues that a church's public reputation should be defined by its love and giving rather than theological precision or doctrinal debates. True motivation for Christian service and financial support does not stem from willpower or guilt, but from meditating on Christ's poverty and the spiritual riches He secured for believers. The preacher exhorts the congregation to examine their own spiritual gifts and use them actively to serve the body of Christ. Ultimately, obedience flows from gratitude for the gospel, transforming duty into a cheerful offering that glorifies God.

Dean Miller explores the restorative power of Paul's love for the Corinthian church, demonstrating how the apostle met personal hurt and misunderstanding with forgiveness and a commitment to relationship.

A case of sexual immorality in the Corinthian church is the catalyst for Paul to upbraid the Corinthians for allowing the surrounding culture and its values to influence them more than Jesus - the one who died and rose for them. Paul reminds them of Jesus's call to live by the power of his Spirit as a counter-cultural contrast community.

As Paul discipled the Corinthian church, he never intended to be their celebrity pastor. He aimed at something far greater: preaching a powerful cross.

A young man once discovered a stack of old comic books worth millions of dollars while cleaning out what others dismissed as garbage. In today's episode of the MY Devotional Podcast, Dr. Michael Youssef uses this surprising story to point believers to something infinitely more valuable: the body of every Christian as the temple of the Holy Spirit. Paul warned the Corinthian believers because they were treating their bodies as if they had little spiritual value. But Scripture declares that those who belong to Christ are not their own. The Holy Spirit Himself dwells within them, making their bodies sacred places where the presence of God resides. Dr. Youssef reminds us that our bodies were designed by God for more than biological function. They are meant to serve Him now and for all eternity. One day, believers will receive glorified, resurrected bodies—but even now, what we do with our bodies matters deeply to God. Because our bodies belong to the Lord, we are called to honor Him with our whole being. This devotional challenges every believer to reject sin, obey God's Word, and offer the body as an instrument of worship for the glory of Christ. Prayer: Father, help me to remember that my body is a temple for Your very presence. May my hands and feet bring You honor and praise as I live righteously by Your Spirit. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.  “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; . . .” (1 Corinthians 6:19). Learn more in Dr. Michael A. Youssef's sermon Healthy Living in a Sick World, Honor God with Your Body: LISTEN NOW | WATCH NOW The voice you hear on the MY Devotional podcast is digitally generated with Dr. Youssef's permission. If today's devotional stirred a question, burden, or need for prayer, you don't have to walk through it alone.

Trump heads to the State Department to make the case that mining, yes, mining, might be one of the sleeper hits of his second term. Expect big numbers on new mines opening at the fastest pace since the 1950s, billions in fresh investment, the first American rare earth mine in over 70 years, and a genuinely entertaining tangent about chandeliers and Corinthian columns. Rubio, Burgum, and Lutnick each take a turn explaining how tariffs, permitting reforms, and international mineral agreements are rebuilding a supply chain America let slip away for decades. There's a $100 million commitment to mining schools, a solid gold nodule replica handed to Trump mid speech, and a parade of industry executives and university presidents thanking him like he personally reopened their mines. Between the policy substance there's plenty of classic riffing, on coal, on tariffs being his "fifth favorite word," and on how badly Minnesota's governor is running things. A wonky topic delivered with maximum showmanship.

When Paul looked back on his work of establishing the Corinthian church, he thanked God for keeping him from baptizing too many believers. Why?

Well, if you didn't learn it from our time in Songs of Songs, let's just be clear: God is pro-marriage and pro-sex. He created intimacy for the good of mankind so that a husband and wife might enjoy one another to the glory of God. The blessing of marital intimacy should be protected from the many ways that mankind distorts it for selfish gratification. The Corinthian church was recovering from a twisted, worldly sexual ethic, and Paul wants them to know how they might use their freedom in Christ rightly, whether married or unmarried. Paul continues this train of thought about freedom to talk about how one should use their Christian freedom and knowledge for the benefit of others, and not for themselves. 1 Corinthians 7 - 1:12 .  1 Corinthians 8 - 9:00 .  1 Corinthians 9 - 11:21 .  1 Corinthians 10 - 17:20 .  1 Corinthians 11 - 22:21 .  Psalm 111 - 27:53 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

In Paul's letter to the Corinthian church, he invites them to participate in a collection for believers in Jerusalem who were in need. His appeal is not grounded in budgets, quotas, or pragmatic fundraising strategies. Instead, he roots generosity in the gospel itself, showing that the God who has been lavishly generous toward His people calls them to reflect His generosity in the way they give."How Generosity Proclaims The Gospel" is a sermon based on 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:6-15 preached by guest speaker Mark Knox. This sermon was preached at Mission Church — a church in Morganton, North Carolina in the heart of Burke County.Join us in person on Sundays, 10 AM221 Herron St.Morganton NC, 28655

Sermon on 2 Corinthians 4:1-15. This is the third sermon in our seven-week sermon series called Church Work.In a world as complex and hard to navigate as our own, we might wonder what issues we ought to care about. What is the work of the church in the world? As we spend time with Paul's second letter to the Corinthian church, we can discern several tasks that are the church's to do. Although we live in a very different time and place than did the believers in Corinth, we have been called by the same God to share the same good news to the world, and each week we'll focus on what we can do as we love God and others today.In this sermon, we explore how the church's work is to proclaim Christ, not ourselves, trusting God's power in our fragile, broken humanity.

What does Paul really mean when he warns about taking Communion "in an unworthy manner"? For many Christians, these verses have been associated with fear and anxiety about approaching the Lord's Table. In today's reflection, Andy explores 1 Corinthians 11 in its original context and explains why the Wesleyan understanding of Communion is rooted in grace rather than gatekeeping. By looking at what was actually happening in the Corinthian church, we discover that Paul's concern wasn't hidden sin as much as it was divisions, exclusion, and failing to welcome one another. It's an invitation to see the Lord's Table as Christ intended—a place where grace is offered freely to all who come.Join us for our daily reflections. In 10 short minutes, we'll dig a little deeper into Scripture and help us better understand God's Word.You can read today's passage here. Click here if you'd like to join our GroupMe and receive this each morning at 7:00 a.m. CST.You can watch this reflection in video form and subscribe to my Substack here.

Paul promised the Corinthian church he would show them “a more excellent way.” That way is agape love — the kind of love that makes spiritual gifts actually useful instead of noisy and divisive.In this message you'll discover:• Why even the most powerful gifts are worthless without love• The true definition of love (patient, kind, not self-seeking)• Why love outlasts every spiritual gift• How to pursue the more excellent way in your own lifeIf you've ever valued gifts, talents, or results more than people, this message is for you.

Sunday Morning Message - "Final Charge: Standing Firm in Faith & Strength"In this message from August 2, Pastor Kyle walks through Paul's final charge to the Corinthian church — five commands packed into two verses that serve as a blueprint for Christian living. The charge calls believers to be watchful, stand firm, act with courage and maturity, be strong, and do everything in love. This guide will help your group dig deeper into each of those commands and consider what it looks like to live them out daily.Key Takeaways:Watchfulness is not passive — it requires attentiveness to your own life, doctrine, and the spiritual condition of those around you.Standing firm in the faith is most tested not in comfortable moments but in moments of challenge and controversy.Biblical manhood can be defined and, therefore, pursued. You cannot become what you cannot define.True strength is not self-generated — it is found in the Lord and in the strength of His might (Ephesians 6:10).Every command in this passage is ultimately to be carried out in love. Strength without love becomes harshness. Watchfulness without love becomes judgment.

Paul wrote to the Corinthian church to correct how they were treating the Lord's Supper. The rich were eating well while the poor went hungry, causing division instead of unity. From their mistakes and Paul's teaching we learn that honoring Christ's table means remembering his sacrifice, sharing in his body, and looking forward to his kingdom. Pastor Jordan Kologe preaches from 1 Corinthians 11.

In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul confronts the Corinthian church for turning the Lord's Supper into a source of division rather than unity. This sermon reflects on communion as a remembrance of Christ's broken body and shed blood, calling believers to examine how they treat one another within the body of Christ. Following Jesus means self-denial, humility, and love that elevates others above personal comfort or preference. The Lord's Supper reminds the church that Christ's sacrifice binds believers together and calls them to live as one.

Hello Friends! I love to hear from you! Please send me a text message by clicking on this link! Blessings to You!In this episode, Dr. Jori discusses with her listeners  Paul's discussion the the Corinthian believers about food sacrificed to idols and liberty in Christ.  Scripture References: 1 Corinthians 8:1; 2 TImothy 3:16-17; Acts 9; 1 Corinthians 1:1-3; 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 Scripture translation used is the NASB “Scripture quotations taken from the NASB (New American Standard Bible) Copyright 1971, 1995, 2020 (only use the last year corresponding to the edition quoted) by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.Lockman.org”CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S OTHER PODCAST- The First Love ProjectHere is the video introducing the podcast on You Tube-https://youtu.be/PhFY1moDDmsHERE IS A LINK TO THE YOUTUBE PLAYLIST FOR FIRST LOVE PROJECThttps://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdaujk1npuKR0BLSkTlKyxmuxavrZQHM6&si=dC10K4Qdh0xMKElU FIND DR. JORI ON OTHER PLATFORMS https://linktr.ee/drjorishaffer DAILY MUSICAL DEVOTIONAL BY THE WORSHIP INITIATIVE:Text SING to 79316CHECK OUT THE DWELL AUDIO BIBLE APP:Click this link for my unique referral code.  I use this frequently. Such a wonderful audio bible app. https://dwellapp.io/aff?ref=jorishafferBIBLE STUDY TOOLS DR. JORI USES:Note: These contain  Amazon affiliate links, meaning I get a commission, at no extra cost to you,  if you decide to make a purchase through my links.Here is a link to some of my favorite bible study tools on Amazon:https://geni.us/cHtrfEMr. Pen Bible Journaling Kitshttps://lvnta.com/lv_PTrHSCogbRim4yhEDnhttps://lvnta.com/lv_mkaMOuGe6m4oHR88uqhttps://lvnta.com/lv_dgvsxOc99t663A628z  BOOKS OF BIBLE COLOR CHARTI made this chart as a helpful tool for grouping the collections of books or letters  in the Holy Bible.  The colors in the different sections are the ones that I use in my journals.  Books of Bible Chart (color) (4).pdf - Google Drive    LOOKING TO RETAIN MORE OF WHAT YOUR PASTOR IS TEACHING?              CHECK OUT DR. JORI'S SERMON REFLECTION JOURNALS! Sermon Notes, Reflections and Applications Journal/Notebooks by Dr. Jori. Click the links below to be directed to amazon.com for purchase. Or search “Dr. Jori Shaffer” on Amazon to bring these up.  https://amzn.to/418LfRshttps://amzn.to/41862EyHere is a brief YouTube video that tells about the Journal/Notebooks as well:https://youtu.be/aXpQNYUEzds   Email: awordforthisday@gmail.comPodcast website:  https://awordforthisday.buzzsprout.com   Support the show

Paul wants the Corinthian church to live under the lordship of Jesus Christ. Divisions had already begun among the church at Corinth, and as we'll see in these first few chapters, some of the division came because believers began attributing themselves to mere men. Paul directs them to boast, not in the teachers they follow, but in Christ and Him crucified. In other words, “let one who boasts, boast in the Lord.” The cross is foolishness to the world, but to those who are being saved, it is the power of Almighty God. The apostles weren't to be placed on pedestals, but they were to be looked to as examples of humility. 1 Corinthians 1 - 1:07 .  1 Corinthians 2 - 6:19 .  1 Corinthians 3 - 9:52 .  1 Corinthians 4 - 13:31 .  1 Corinthians 5 - 18:24 .  1 Corinthians 6 - 20:56 .  Psalm 110 - 24:57 .  :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Enjoy our morning devotion from our daily Bible reading. Today's Bible reading is found in the title of each morning's devotional.

The Corinthian believers tried to split into fan clubs, but they never belonged to their favorite teachers. In Christ, their teachers belonged to them.

Sermon on 2 Corinthians 2:1-10. This is the second sermon in our seven-week sermon series called Church Work.In a world as complex and hard to navigate as our own, we might wonder what issues we ought to care about. What is the work of the church in the world? As we spend time with Paul's second letter to the Corinthian church, we can discern several tasks that are the church's to do. Although we live in a very different time and place than did the believers in Corinth, we have been called by the same God to share the same good news to the world, and each week we'll focus on what we can do as we love God and others today.In this sermon, we explore how forgiveness isn't optional for Christians—it's costly, God-given work that seeks restoration without demanding forgetfulness.

Does Paul hate women? Why is he talking about women's hair and telling them what to do in a worship service? Listen to Hope and Chris explain the parts of Corinthian culture behind Paul's often misunderstood words. This episode accompanies Study 7 of our book, 1 Corinthians. You can buy it and our other studies at ⁠athisfeetstudies.com⁠.

1 Corinthians 7:17-40 | The Church in Sin City, Part 7b | 7/26/2026 | Pastor Tony Shen. Pastor Shen picks back up in his sermon series through the book of 1st Corinthians, finishing up chapter 7, where Paul answers questions from the Corinthian church about marriage.

What if the greatest purpose of the gifts of the Holy Spirit isn't to make us look powerful—but to make God's love visible? In this powerful message, Pastor Lacey Bryant unpacks 1 Corinthians 12–14 through the lens of the Corinthian church, revealing why Paul wrote these chapters and why they are just as relevant for the Church today. Discover the difference between spiritual gifting and spiritual maturity, explore the three categories of the gifts of the Spirit, and learn why love—not status, platform, or ability—is the foundation for every supernatural gift. With biblical insight, historical context, personal testimonies, and practical application, this message challenges the modern Church to reject performance-driven Christianity and embrace both the power and the character of the Holy Spirit. As Paul reminds us, we don't have to choose between pursuing love and desiring spiritual gifts—we are called to do both. Whether you're hungry to grow in the gifts of the Spirit, wrestling with questions about the supernatural, or longing for a deeper relationship with Jesus, this message will encourage you to pursue the presence of God, love people well, and allow the Holy Spirit to work through your life for His glory.

Rethinking Communion: Social Dynamics and Inclusive PracticeIn this episode, we explore the social and communal dimensions of communion, examining how historical practices, theological interpretations, and contemporary church culture influence our understanding and celebration of this sacred act. Join us for a biblically grounded, socially aware perspective that challenges traditional boundaries and invites an inclusive approach to the Lord's Supper.Key TopicsThe original context of early Christian meals and their social significanceHow Roman social hierarchy influenced the Corinthian church's practice of communionThe distinction between private morality and social morality in communionThe metaphor of the body of Christ as a symbol of unity and equalityThe importance of discerning the body, both Christ in the elements and the church communityCritique of common practices that divide or shame participantsThe cultural transformation of communion from a shared meal to a ritualistic, individual-focused eventPractical ideas for more inclusive and community-focused communion celebrationsCHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction and the significance of social dynamics in communion02:10 - The context of early Christian meals and Roman influence05:55 - The division of social status and its impact on the Lord's Supper09:45 - Interpreting 1 Corinthians 11: the meaning of unworthy manner14:50 - Community examination and practicing worthy participation20:06 - The biblical symbolism of the body of Christ and social equality26:40 - How divisions undermine the purpose of communion32:43 - Practical implications for church practice and inclusive communion36:36 - The role of non-believers and open invitation45:12 - The church as a gathering place that reflects social hierarchies47:33 - The importance of authentic community and simplification of practices51:50 - Closing thoughts and encouragement for a more inclusive approachAs always, we encourage and would love discussion as we pursue. Feel free to email in questions to hello@voxpodcast.com, and to engage the conversation on Facebook and Instagram.We're on YouTube (if you're into that kinda thing): VOXOLOGY TV.Our Merch Store! EtsyLearn more about the Voxology PodcastSubscribe on iTunes or SpotifySupport the Voxology Podcast on PatreonThe Voxology Spotify channel can be found here: Voxology RadioFollow us on Instagram: @voxologypodcast and "like" us on FacebookFollow Mike on Twitter: www.twitter.com/mikeerreMusic in this episode by Timothy John StaffordInstagram & Twitter: @GoneTimothy

We tell a story about an ordinary night that changed a life, then let Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 6 reframe how we see our bodies, sex, and resurrection. We push back on shame and self-deception and hold out a grounded hope that Jesus redeems our physical lives, not just our inner thoughts. • an ordinary decision becoming a doorway to God's surprising work • Paul quoting Corinthian slogans and correcting their assumptions • why “food for the stomach” is really about sex • Greek dualism and the modern habit of separating body and soul • Jesus' bodily resurrection in Luke 24 as the anchor • union with Christ and why sexual immorality is never “just physical” • “your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit” as identity and dignity • “you are not your own” as relief from exhausting self-ownership • pornography, lust, and the possibility of real freedom • conviction without lingering in shame, confession as a first step If you'd like to receive prayer during the song or during the time of communion, I invite you to slip out of your seat. Support the show

This powerful message confronts us with an uncomfortable truth: we often handle conflict by running away rather than seeking reconciliation. Drawing from Galatians 5 and 1 Corinthians 13, we're challenged to examine how we respond when disagreements arise in our faith communities. The central insight revolves around a profound theological reality—God didn't divorce us when we broke covenant with Him through sin. Instead, He reconciled us back to Himself at tremendous cost. This becomes our model for handling conflict. We're called to act in three foundational ways: in the Spirit rather than the flesh, in love that considers others above ourselves, and in humility that mirrors Christ's servant heart. The message exposes how easily we can display works of the flesh like jealousy, quarreling, and selfish ambition when conflict arises, just as the Galatian and Corinthian churches did. But walking in the Spirit produces different fruit—patience, kindness, gentleness, and self-control. Perhaps most convicting is the reminder that taking communion unworthily isn't about our personal sinfulness, but about accepting God's forgiveness while refusing to extend it to others. We're invited to stop divorcing ourselves from people we claim to love and instead bear the cost of reconciliation, just as Christ did for us. If you want help in starting this journey, please don't hesitate to reach out! If you want to talk to someone about going deeper in your faith or starting to walk with Jesus on a daily basis, please reach out to us at office@graceva.com

How do the Corinthian church's riches in word and knowledge serve to confirm the testimony of Christ? Their beautiful speech shows a beautiful Savior.

In this episode, I review a conversation between George Janko and Johnny Chang about singleness in the Body of Christ and give an alternate perspective to Johnny on 1st Corinthian's Chapter 7. To access the sources for this episode, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qmPhj6imoETo become a subscriber of this podcast, visit:⁠⁠https://anchor.fm/seth-hensley/subscribe⁠

June 17, 2026 - Wednesday PM Bible Class In this episode the speaker examines the life and character of Apollos as introduced in Acts 18 and referenced throughout Acts 19, 1 Corinthians, and Titus. Using Acts 18:24–28 as the primary text, the episode explores Apollos's background (a Jew from Alexandria), his strengths (eloquence, scriptural competence, fervent spirit), and the pivotal moment when Priscilla and Aquila privately corrected his understanding of baptism. The conversation covers practical themes and biblical takeaways: be strong in the Scriptures, use your gifts for God's glory, cultivate zeal, do not let fear silence you, be humble enough to learn, accept correction with grace, welcome unexpected teachers, keep growing, and encourage other believers. The host ties these lessons to the episode's central thesis: with God there is guaranteed success — but we must be willing to get off the launch pad and act. Scripture passages discussed include Acts 18 and 19, 1 Corinthians chapters 1 and 3, and Titus 3:13. The speaker also draws on vivid analogies and anecdotes (the Apollo space-launch metaphor, a 350-mile ultramarathon example, a bursting sourdough jar, a large local insect, and John Ford's Battle of Midway footage) to illuminate courage, zeal, and the willingness to risk failure for a greater purpose. The episode highlights key biblical figures who interact with Apollos — Priscilla and Aquila who teach him, Paul whose ministry context provides contrast, and the Corinthian church where tensions about followership arise — and shows how Apollos's response to correction models a faithful balance of boldness and humility. Listeners can expect a mix of expository teaching, pastoral application, and memorable illustrations aimed at encouraging Christians to step into service despite the risk of mistakes, to receive correction with grace, and to let God receive the glory for spiritual growth and fruit.   Duration 41:19

What happens when the meal meant to unite us becomes the thing that divides us? We're in 1 Corinthians 11 — the Lord's Supper, why Paul was furious about how the Corinthian church was taking it, and what it actually means to "discern the body." Come ready to see communion differently.

Paul's supernatural gratitude came from his wholehearted love for God and his work among the Corinthian church. How can we become thankful like him?

Part I: The Operating System for Culture with Marc Lotenberg, founder of DorsiaDorsia is building the operating system for private members' clubs: a first-party, end-to-end technology platform designed to replace the legacy software and disconnected third-party integrations that most clubs still run on today. Marc Lotenberg, founder of Dorsia, argues that the gap between what the most discerning members expect and what the average club can actually deliver comes down to a failure of infrastructure, not hospitality intent. In Part I of this episode, Marc makes the case for why genuine personalization at the club level has to be built on first-party data sovereignty, what it actually costs to build compliant, frictionless hospitality technology at scale, and why he believes that pretending every prospective member is your customer is the fastest way to end up with none.Thank you Dorsia for making this episode possible. To learn more about Dorsia's hospitality tech, get in touch: melissa@dorsia.comDownload Dorsia to get access to impossible tables and events here (code: THESTANZA)Follow Dorsia on InstagramPart II: Heritage at Scale: Building the Orient Express Universe Across Trains, Yachts, and Hotels with Gilda Perez-Alvarado, CEO Orient ExpressStarts at 13:26Gilda Perez-Alvarado is CEO of Orient Express and Chief Strategy Officer at Accor, where she oversees the brand's expansion across hotels, luxury trains, and yachts. Orient Express is a strategic joint venture between Accor and LVMH, combining Accor's global hospitality infrastructure with LVMH's expertise in luxury consumer goods and brand stewardship. Gilda joined Accor in late 2023 after two decades at JLL Hotels & Hospitality Group, where she rose to Global CEO of the practice.Today, Orient Express spans two hotels in Rome and Venice, the La Dolce Vita luxury train on Italy's historic tourist rail network, a second train, L'Orient Express, set for 2027, and the Corinthian yacht that launched in May 2026, with the Olympian to follow in 2027. Every asset is designed to be privatizable and capped in room count to protect scarcity. The Italian portfolio is developed in partnership with Arsenale , who first approached Accor ahead of the pandemic with a proposal to flag La Dolce Vita as Orient Express.Orient Express is ultimately building what Gilda describes as a multi-modal travel business, sequencing hotels, trains, and yachts into a single continuous guest journey rather than a collection of standalone bookings.In this episode, Nadine sits down with Gilda to explore what it really takes to relaunch one of the world's most recognized travel brands across real estate, rail, and maritime operations, while satisfying two publicly-oriented parent companies and a brand mandate that has to hold for at least another century.INTERVIEW HIGHLIGHTSHow the Accor-LVMH joint venture divides responsibility, and what each parent brings beyond equityThe site selection framework for new hotel assets, including the role of an in-house historianWhy Orient Express capped room counts and built every asset to be privatizable, and how that shapes owner conversations and pricingGilda's view on how distribution and guest acquisition has evolved beyond traditional meansThe open question on the Corinthian's revenue model: transient product or private charter businessHow Orient Express approaches guest curation on trains and yachts, and why Gilda frames it as one of the most consequential and least controllable variables in the businessThe tension between short-term shareholder reporting and a mandate framed around a 143-year horizonWhat Gilda learned from LVMH's approach to scarcity and brand stewardshipLearn more about Orient Express hereFollow Orient Express on Instagram

The Rise of the Dionysian Dynasty in Syracuse. Guest Author: Professor James Romm. Syracuse, a Corinthian colony, rose to power under Dionysius the Elder during the 4th century BCE. Starting as a clerk, he became a demagogue by attacking elite leaders accused of collaborating with Carthage. He fortified "the island," a strategic peninsula with a natural spring, to secure his power. Dionysius broke Greek custom by adopting Persian-style polygamy, marrying Doris and Aristomache on one day to appear superhuman. This created rival lineages that sparked future civil conflict. The court was famous for "Syracuse tables," characterized by excessive luxury and wine. Dionysius died in 367 BCE, with rumors suggesting he was poisoned. 1