STARTER

PRAY

As we gather together today Lord, we ask that we would listen to Your word and the encouragement of Your body the church. Please in the power of Your Holy Spirit, help us be FOUND FAITHFUL in You and the message to the world of the cross. Amen.

"Found Faithful”

Paul has had messages brought to him about the problems in the Corinthian church. Corinth was a city and culture much like ours today with all kinds of options for wealth, entertainment, experiences, and pleasure.

In this letter, God has Paul focus on the necessity of us seeing our identity in Jesus. He exposes His frustration over divisions because of the lack of understanding and acting in wisdom. He clarifies His desire and purpose for them to be spiritual people. So, in a world where the stories that sell are based on people being found out, what does it mean for believers to be FOUND FAITHFUL?

READ 1 Corinthians 4:1-7

  1. Paul describes his role in the church. What does this passage teach about the life of someone who is FOUND FAITHFUL to Jesus specifically through the church?

READ Matthew 7:1-5, Deuteronomy 1:15-17, Zechariah 8:16-17, Leviticus 19:1-2, 15, John 7:24

  1. How do these passages and the 1 Corinthians 4 passage help us be FOUND FAITHFUL in making necessary “righteous judgements” and not making condemning “prematurely before the Lord comes” judgements?
  2. Our legal system is not designed to go after the the intensions of the heart, it judges almost entirely based on the law and action. How and why is God’s judgement different?
  3. What does Paul mean by his exhortation to the Corinthian believers in 4:6 to not exceed what is written in the scriptures? Why is it vitally important that we do not exceed or take away from what is written if we are to be FOUND FAITHFUL?

READ 1 Corinthians 4:8-17

  1. Paul saw evidence of spiritual pride in the early church. Why did that trouble him?
  2. Our abilities and talents are gifts from God. How should knowing that keep us from thinking that we are better than others?
  3. In 4:16, Paul says to “imitate me.” Is this statement arrogant? Would it be arrogant for us today to say this? Why or why not? How should this statement affect our actions?
  4. How does the example of Paul’s lifestyle in this chapter challenge your own way of living?