October 3, 2024 - 1 Corinthians 4-7

Paul continued to be concerned about the pride of the Corinthians about being a part of this clique or that.  He contrasted them with the apostles of whom he wrote, “ To the present hour we hunger and thirst, we are poorly dressed and buffeted and homeless, and we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure;  when slandered, we entreat. We have become, and are still, like the scum of the world, the refuse of all things” (4:11-13).  Why would Paul and others willingly suffer so much?  Later in the letter, he tells us:  “I do it all for the sake of the gospel” (9:23).  The gospel is the greatest treasure of all.  Remember the story of the lame man at the temple?  Peter said to him, “I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you.  In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” (Acts 3:6)  All the treasures that are found in Jesus Christ?  They are ours!

I have no riches, no gold or silver,

But I found something at an altar of prayer.

It gives me peace and sweet consolation,

And He has promised me Heaven's glory I'll share.

I found a treasure when I found Jesus,

He gives me pleasures that the world cannot give.

Although I'm a beggar, I'm rich beyond measure.

I found a treasure when I found the Lord.   –Unknown