The mystery to conquer the world
1 Corinthians 2:1~12 What we have received is not the spirit of the world, but the spirit who is from God, so that we may understand what God has freely given us. (12) Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #406 I Have Found Sweet Rest (#464 in previous version) When we struggle with interpersonal relationships or have conflicts at church, we become even more discouraged. Our disappointment is also large because of the expectations we have regarding those who walk alongside us in our Christian walk of faith. Conflicts also occurred in the Corinthian church where idolatry was widespread, but Priscilla and Aquila were a couple who received answers without wavering. The Corinthian church was established centered on them, and they were used until the end for Roman evangelization. How did Priscilla and Aquila overcome the conflicts of their present reality to receive answers? What was the mystery they possessed?
1. Kingdom of God
The resurrected Jesus spoke of the kingdom of God for 40 days to the disciples gathered in Mark’s upper room. The Early Church held on to the mystery of the kingdom of God to overcome persecution and difficulties and ultimately conquer Rome. Priscilla and Aquila witnessed the mystery of the kingdom of God as enjoyed by the Early Church, and met the evangelist Paul after being exiled from Rome to Corinth. They did not waver despite their problems, and were able to receive answers because they enjoyed the mystery of the kingdom of God.
2. Children of God
We became children of God by believing in Jesus Christ. God called us as His temple and is with us for all eternity. The grace He has given to us as children of God is enormous. God wants us to enjoy this realistically in our lives. Priscilla and Aquila simply enjoyed the identity and authority given to children of God through His grace, and were able to consequently enjoy many blessings.
3. God’s love
Only people who have experienced love are capable of loving others. We have received the love that is not possible in the world. God sent us Jesus Christ when we were mired in utter destruction and curses in Satan’s sway after leaving Him. God’s love is most powerful among all powers; actually, the world faces destruction because they are without God’s love. Because we have received such awesome love, we must share it with others. This is evangelism. The moment we come to understand God’s love, we will overcome all conflicts and problems.
- What kind of mystery do I possess in my Christian walk of faith? Meditate deeply on Christ and the kingdom of God, as well as the filling of the Holy Spirit enjoyed by Priscilla and Aquila. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 1st Service / 2012. 7. 29