December 20, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 10
1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.
10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
11 Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.
15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.
16 The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
17 For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
18 Behold Israel after the flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices partakers of the altar?
19 What say I then? that the idol is any thing, or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
20 But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
21 Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord’s table, and of the table of devils.
22 Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he?
23 All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.
24 Let no man seek his own, but every man another’s wealth.
25 Whatsoever is sold in the shambles, that eat, asking no question for conscience sake:
26 For the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.
27 If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake.
28 But if any man say unto you, this is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof:
29 Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man’s conscience?
30 For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?
31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
32 Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:
33 Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
1 Corinthians Chapter 10 offers us a poignant admonition on how we can learn from the mistakes of the people of Israel in the wilderness. The Apostle Paul uses examples from Israel’s history to warn the believers in Corinth and us today against spiritual pride, idolatry, and temptations. At the same time, he illustrates how God’s faithfulness supports us in temptations and how our actions should always be directed toward the honor of God. The chapter combines warnings with a profound theological reflection on the Lord’s Supper and our fellowship with Christ.
Commentary
1. The Warning Example of Israel (Verses 1–13)
Paul reminds the Corinthians of Israel’s history and emphasizes that the events in the wilderness serve as models and warnings for us. The Israelites experienced God’s guidance (the cloud and the sea) and provision (spiritual food and drink), yet many fell due to unbelief and disobedience. This serves as a caution against becoming complacent and thinking we are above temptations (verse 12). Instead, we should be aware that God does not tempt us beyond our strength but always provides a way out (verse 13).
2. The Incompatibility of the Lord’s Supper and Idolatry (Verses 14–22)
Paul urges the Corinthians to avoid idolatry, as it is impossible to participate in both the fellowship of the Lord and the fellowship with demons simultaneously. The Lord’s Supper is an expression of our unity with Christ and the church. Those who practice idolatry question this fellowship and provoke God’s jealousy (verse 22). This underscores the holiness and exclusivity of our relationship with God.
3. Consideration for the Conscience (Verses 23–33)
Here, Paul shifts the focus to everyday life and the consideration of others’ consciences. While much is permitted, not everything benefits the community. Paul encourages the Corinthians to think not only of their own freedom but also of the conscience of others when making decisions. The ultimate goal remains to honor God by doing everything with this intent (verse 31).
Summary
1 Corinthians Chapter 10 is a compelling warning that teaches us from Israel’s mistakes in the wilderness. Paul encourages us to withstand temptations, avoid idolatry, and always align our actions in the service of God and our fellow humans. The chapter’s message is clear: our freedom as Christians must be characterized by love, consideration, and the pursuit of God’s honor. “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (verse 31) remains the guiding principle of this section.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 80—In Joseph’s Tomb
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction:
Chapter 80 describes the final hours of Good Friday and the Sabbath, during which Jesus rests in the tomb after His crucifixion. This section highlights the significance of Jesus’ death and the rest in the tomb in relation to creation and redemption. At the same time, it establishes the symbolic connection between Jesus’ sacrificial death and the Sabbath rest. The chapter paints a profound picture of human sorrow, divine providence, and the priests’ efforts to suppress the memory of Jesus.
Commentary:
Jesus’ Rest in the Tomb and Its Significance Jesus’
Sabbath rest in the tomb mirrors God’s rest after creation. While creation was completed on the seventh day, Jesus’ rest symbolizes the completion of the redemptive work. This connection demonstrates that the cross is not only a place of suffering but also of triumph over sin. The Sabbath becomes a day of hope, pointing to the restoration of creation and eternal life.
Testimonies and Confessions After the Crucifixion
The words of the Roman centurion and the conversion of many spectators of the crucifixion serve as evidence that Jesus’ life and death had transformative power. The faith of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus is highlighted in this chapter, as they courageously advocate for Jesus’ dignified burial despite their previous hesitations. This shows that Jesus’ death also moves hidden believers to take action.
The Priests’ Uneasy Conscience
Despite their apparent triumph, the priests are plagued by fear and doubt. Their efforts to seal and guard Jesus’ tomb reflect their uncertainty. Their attempt to prevent Jesus’ resurrection ultimately fulfills God’s plan and provides stronger evidence of His divinity.
The Testimony of Creation
Nature itself testifies to Jesus’ divinity: the darkness during the crucifixion, the earthquake, and the torn temple veil. These events underscore the significance of Jesus’ death and His connection to creation and the plan of redemption.
Summary:
Chapter 80 emphasizes the significance of Jesus’ rest in the tomb as a symbol of completed redemption and connects it with the Sabbath rest of creation. While Jesus’ enemies continue to try to suppress His influence, their actions ultimately provide evidence of His divinity. The chapter shows how Jesus’ death moves not only His disciples but also other witnesses of His crucifixion. The Sabbath following the crucifixion becomes a day of silence and reflection, harboring hope for the resurrection. The triumph of God over human plans and the glorification of His name are central themes of this chapter.
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