Facing Persecution
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 4:6-13 (NASB)
6 Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, so that in us you may learn not to exceed what is written, so that no one of you will become arrogant in behalf of one against the other. 7 For who regards you as superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?
8 You are already filled, you have already become rich, you have become kings without us; and indeed, I wish that you had become kings so that we also might reign with you. 9 For, I think, God has exhibited us apostles last of all, as men condemned to death; because we have become a spectacle to the world, both to angels and to men. 10 We are fools for Christ’s sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor. 11 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless; 12 and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; 13 when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.
SUMMARY
Paul and Apollos wanted to teach the Corinthian church how to be humble because the members of the church were taking away God’s glory. Paul also says that he suffered for Christ while the Corinthian church was arrogant. Paul wanted the Corinthian church be humble before the Lord and to follow after Christ.
MEDITATION & REFLECTION
When I read this passage, it made me think about whether I would suffer for Christ or not. Would I die for Christ and suffer just like how Paul suffered? To be honest, I don’t think I would because I would be scared and maybe because my trust in God isn’t as strong. It is amazing how much Paul suffered and was persecuted because of his faith. It also makes me think about all the Christians in the world who are getting persecuted because of their faith especially in countries that condemn Christianity.
APPLICATION
I want to not be afraid of persecution and be willing to suffer for the Lord. For example, if I hear my friends or family members criticize my faith, I want to be able to defend my faith and also be proud of my faith. Most of my family are not Christians and they think that I am being brainwashed. It makes me sad that my family members are lost and worshiping idols in this world. I feel that I am being persecuted by my family but I want to respond in a bold and loving way. I will think about what Paul had to go through and his situation was much more difficult.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that being a Christian comes with suffering. Thank You for reminding me to be humble before You and to give all the glory to You. I pray that You help me become humble before You and to use me to respond back in a loving way to the people who persecute me. I pray for wisdom in sharing the gospel to the people who persecute Christians or have hardened hearts.
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