More than the content of this chapter, I'm struck by its tone. What type of reputation must Paul have had to be able to write a letter like this - to people he had not seen in a few years - and sound so sanctimonious?
He chastises them all for their bickering - v. 14 "to admonish you as my beloved children" - and still seems to be respected. In fact, the letter was cherished enough by the community that received it that it has survived for 2000 years. I know I would not respond well AT ALL to letter in this tone. The 8-year old inside me would come out and I'd bicker with my neighbor precisely because this know-it-all letter had told me not to.
I'm interested to see how theology is flushed out in the coming chapters. This letter was written 20 years earlier than the 1st of the gospels....what stories and teachings were discussed this early on?
- Did anyone else notice that Bill's post on Friday was post #1,000?
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I am beginning to think anything I post is not being seem by anyone else...Guess the last one did get through. I am sure we said we would start Corinthians on last Friday. I sometimes look at doing Friday's blog on Thrusday night. Otherwise I need to find the energy to get up at 4:00 am to do it early in the morning before I leave for work.
ReplyDelete20 For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power. 21 What do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod of discipline, or shall I come in love and with a gentle spirit? What does this mean? Come with the rod of discipline, please! I have always loved a good beating adminstered with a loving hand.(Not!) I understand Paul is trying to get the church in Corinth to change their ways, to turn from their sinful activities, but to use threats of physical discipline if they won't listen is hard to contemplate using the perspective we have on correct behavior today. How would Paul do in a classroom today in one of our public schools where a teacher is not allowed to discipline, touch or raise their voice to a disruptive student. Who has the power now? Paul in this chapter is saying that God is the only Judge and that we all will eventually answer to Him alone. I think the question today is: Do we need someone else to come to us with "the rod of discipline" so we will turn from our sinful ways, or can we look inside ourselves, find the inner discipline to walk with God, praying and praising Him for the many blessings he has given us.
I read them, Bill. Usually they make me think quite a bit - and I haven't been able to respond to them because it takes me a few days to mull over your thoughts. Checking "Interesting" doesn't seem adequate and there isn't a "Really thought-provoking" check option...sorry if you've felt un-read!
ReplyDeleteKelly
I too read and find the posts interesting though my wish is that more of the congregation
ReplyDeletewould take an interest in participating.