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1 Corinthians 16.13–24: The grace of the Lord Jesus (Day 60)

Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.

Pray

Pray

Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.

Reflect

Daily reflection: 1 Corinthians 16

1 Corinthians is a real letter to real people, rather than an abstract piece of theological writing. This closing chapter makes this clear – Paul has people's names and faces in mind as he writes, as he often does. That doesn't mean he pulls his punches when he needs to be firm about something, but it does mean his warnings and advice are rooted in real events and real concerns – a lesson to preachers and other Bible communicators today.

His final words, in which he sends greetings to individuals and names particular people, are prefaced by lines that could stand as a pattern for all Christian discipleship and ministry: 'Be alert, stand firm in the faith, be brave, be strong. Do all your work in love' (verses 13­–14).

'Be alert' implies that we should be aware of what's going on in the world, and use our minds and God-given skills of inquiry and thoughtfulness to understand our society and culture. 'Stand firm in the faith' means that we should hold tightly to the truth of the gospel of Christ, and not be seduced away from it by other ideas and philosophies that appear more attractive and less demanding. We might very well need to be brave and strong, if we hold and teach unpopular views. But it's possible to be all of these things – rigorously correct in doctrine and a stout defender of the faith – and thoroughly unpleasant, harsh and judgemental with it. So, 'Do all your work in love,' Paul says.

It's not really a question of 'balancing' truth with love, or grace, as though they're somehow opposed to each other. Love should be in everything we say and do.

Pray

Pray

God, help me to be alert and wise, firm in my faith, brave and strong. And help me to be loving, as Jesus was loving, and to follow in his footsteps in this as in everything.


This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor

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