Tag: First Corinthians

Today’s Bible Verse

August 06, 2025

1 Corinthians 10:12–13 (KJV) 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.

Verse Context

In 1 Corinthians chapter 10, Paul warns the church not to repeat Israel’s mistakes in the wilderness. He recalls how God’s chosen people fell into sin, idolatry, and sexual immorality, even after experiencing His blessings and deliverance from Egypt. Verse 12 gives a clear caution against overconfidence: those who think they are spiritually secure must remain humble, alert, and reliant on God’s grace.

Verse 13 is a promise of God’s faithfulness. Temptation (Greek: peirasmos, meaning trial or test) is a universal human experience, but God never allows believers to face a temptation that is beyond their spiritual capacity to endure. He always provides “a way to escape,” meaning a divinely enabled path to resist sin or endure trial without falling. This encouragement reminds believers that victory over temptation comes not through human strength, but through God’s provision and faithfulness.

Broader Context

The Apostle Paul (c. A.D. 5–64), writing to the church at Corinth (Kor-inth) around A.D. 55, to address serious moral, doctrinal, and unity issues in the church of Corinth  and it addresses believers who struggled with pride, idolatry, and worldly influence. Corinth was a wealthy, multicultural port city in ancient Greece, located in what is now modern-day Korinthos, Greece. It was known for its immorality, pagan temples, and constant temptations for Christians trying to live set apart lives. 1 Corinthians 10, draws heavily from Israel’s history in the wilderness to teach a timeless spiritual lesson: even those who have seen God’s mighty works can fall into sin if they are not careful and humble.

Paul’s broader argument begins in chapter 8 and runs through chapter 10, where he instructs the Corinthians about:

  • Idolatry and Pagan Influence – Corinth was a city full of temples and idol feasts, and Christians were tempted to compromise by participating in pagan celebrations.
    • Spiritual Pride and Overconfidence – Some believers thought that their knowledge and liberty in Christ made them immune to sin, which Paul directly confronts in 10:12.

    Learning from Israel’s Example, He reminds the church of how Israel, though delivered by God and given spiritual privileges, fell into sin (10:1–11). These historical examples serve as a warning and teaching tool for the church.

    In this section, Paul emphasizes that temptation is inevitable but conquerable. Temptation itself is not sin, but yielding to it is. God’s faithfulness provides both strength to endure and a clear path of escape to avoid falling. This teaching fits within the larger theme of sanctification and holiness in the Christian life, which Paul consistently calls the Corinthian church to embrace.

    By the time we reach 1 Corinthians 10:12–13, Paul’s message is clear: Pride leads to downfall – All believers face temptation – God is faithful to sustain and deliver those who trust Him. This ties back to the overall purpose of the letter: to call the Corinthian believers to live holy, united, and disciplined lives, standing firm against the constant moral pressure of the world around them.

    Application

    Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 10:12–13 are like a warm, guiding hand from the Lord to every believer who has stumbled, slipped, or grown weary in the faith. Life with Christ is a journey where we will face temptation, weakness, and moments of failure, but these verses remind us that falling does not have to be the end of the story.

    12 – “Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”
    This is a loving caution. We humans can be overconfident in our own strength or routines, thinking we are too grounded to fall, but sin has a way of catching us when we are tired, distracted, or prideful. Paul is not trying to condemn believers here; he is urging humility and constant dependence on the Lord. Acknowledging our weakness is the first step toward living in His strength.

    13 – “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man…”
    Temptation is universal. None of us are alone in the struggles we face. Satan often whispers that our sins or failures are too unique, too shameful, or too frequent for God to forgive, but Paul crushes that lie. Every temptation you face has been faced by others, and God’s Word says He is always present in it. “…but God is faithful…” This is the heartbeat of hope. Our spiritual strength is not in our willpower but in God’s unchanging faithfulness. He never abandons His children, even when they stumble. He promises that every temptation will come with a way of escape, a door out, a whisper of conviction, a reminder of His Word, a moment to turn back before it’s too late.

    Appreciating God’s Greatness
    This passage reveals a God who does not give up on His people. He knows our weaknesses, yet He provides everything we need to stand again. His greatness is seen in His patience, His mercy, and His constant readiness to lift us up when we cry out for help.

    For the Believer
    If you are walking with Christ and feel the weight of failure or discouragement, remember: falling does not make you forsaken. Take heed, recognize your need for God every single day. Rely on His faithfulness, you cannot endure temptation in your strength, but in His. Seek the escape He provides, whether that’s prayer, Scripture, accountability, or simply fleeing the situation that tempts you.

    Call to Action

    Start your day surrendered—pray before your feet hit the floor, “Lord, I give this day to You. Keep me in Your will.” Stay in the Word—God’s promises are your shield against temptation. Confess and rise—if you fall, confess it quickly, receive His forgiveness, and move forward in grace.

    For the Unbeliever
    If you have never truly surrendered to Christ, temptation will always overpower you because sin is your master. But Jesus offers freedom and a new heart. If you turn to Him in faith, believing that He died for your sins and rose again, He will forgive you and begin a new work in you that cannot be shaken.

    Final Encouragement

    These verses are not about condemnation; they are about restoration and hope. God knows our struggles, and He never leaves His children without a path back to Him. Whether you have walked closely with the Lord or have stumbled into a season of distance, He is faithful to forgive, to restore, and to strengthen you for the journey ahead.

    Our Prayer for you

    Heavenly Father, Almighty Lord of Hosts,

    We come before You as Your children, humbled by our weakness but lifted by Your unfailing strength. Today, we pray as warriors in Your Kingdom, asking that your holy angels stand guard over our lives. Let them battle the demons that come against us, the spirits of temptation and despair, and every force that seeks to pull us away from You.

    Lord, when temptation comes, give us the resolve of Jesus on the mountain, who faced Satan with the Word of God and the strength of the Spirit. Let us remember that Satan has nothing for us, no joy, no peace, no life, only chains. You alone are our hope, our refuge, and our deliverer.

    We pray for one another, Lord. Strengthen our brothers and sisters in Christ. Let us encourage one another, lift each other up, rebuild what is broken, restore what has fallen, and bless with mercy instead of tearing down with hate. Teach us to see each other through Your eyes, redeemed, loved, and worth fighting for.

    Father, we surrender ourselves to You again, and we ask that Your Spirit guide our every step. May we die to our flesh daily, rise in Christ’s power, and walk as living testimonies of Your grace. Thank You for always making a way of escape, and for never giving up on us.

    In Jesus’ mighty name we pray,

    Amen.

    Closing

    If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

    You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth. Shalom Shalom.

    Today’s Daily Bible Verse

    Today is August 5, 2025

    First Corinthians 9:24–27 (KJV) 24 Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. 25 And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. 26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: 27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

    Verse Context

    Paul uses athletic imagery familiar to his Corinthian audience, who lived in a city famous for hosting the Isthmian (ISS-me-an) Games, second only to the Olympic Games. Verse 24 introduces a race where all run but only one wins. Paul urges believers to “run” their Christian lives with that same focused intensity—not casually, but striving to obtain the eternal reward Christ promises.

    Verse 25 speaks of being “temperate” (egkrateuomai [ἐγκρατεύομαι] in Greek), meaning exercising self-control and discipline in all areas. Athletes training for the games restricted their diets, sleep, and pleasures to win a “corruptible crown”—literally a wreath of pine or celery that would quickly wither. In contrast, believers aim for an “incorruptible” (imperishable) crown of eternal life and glory (see Revelation 2:10).

    Verses 26–27 show Paul’s personal application: he runs with certainty, fights with precision, and disciplines his body (hypōpiazō [ὑπωπιάζω], meaning to strike a blow under the eye, metaphorically subduing the flesh). His concern about becoming a “castaway” (adokimos [ἀδόκιμος], meaning disqualified or unapproved) doesn’t imply loss of salvation but loss of reward and ministry usefulness due to hypocrisy.

    Broader Context

    These verses conclude a chapter where Paul has defended his apostolic rights but voluntarily surrendered them for the sake of the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:1–23). His life models self-denial, not self-indulgence, as the means of spreading Christ’s message effectively.

    In the larger context of chapters 8–10, Paul teaches the Corinthians to forgo their “rights” for the sake of weaker brethren and God’s glory. His athletic metaphor warns against complacency. Just as runners train relentlessly, believers must live with purposeful discipline to avoid spiritual disqualification—not from salvation, but from faithfully finishing the race (see 2 Timothy 4:7–8).

    Application

    Appreciating God’s Greatness

    Our God is not only merciful but also righteous, calling His people to a life of discipline that reflects His holiness. He rewards those who run faithfully to the end—not because of their strength, but because of His sustaining grace.

    For the Believer

    Your Christian walk is not a casual stroll but a race requiring focus and perseverance. Like Paul, train your spiritual life with intentional prayer, Scripture reading, and self-denial. Avoid distractions that pull you from your heavenly goal.

    Call to Action: Examine areas of spiritual laxity. What habits or comforts are hindering your race? Commit to training yourself in godliness (1 Timothy 4:7–8).

    For the Unbeliever

    This race is only possible because of Jesus Christ. Without Him, all human striving ends in a perishable reward. Place your faith in Christ and join the race that leads to eternal life.

    Final Encouragement

    Run with your eyes on Christ. The incorruptible crown is not for the fastest, but for the faithful who endure by His power.

    Prayer

    Lord, strengthen me to run this race with endurance and focus. Help me discipline my life to reflect Your holiness. Keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith. Amen.

    Closing

    If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

    You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

    Shalom Shalom.

    Today’s Daily Bible Verse

    Today is August 4, 2025

    First Corinthians 5:9–13 (KJV) 9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. 11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

    Verse Context

    This portion of Paul’s letter is part of his sharp rebuke of the Corinthian church. Corinth was notorious for its sexual immorality, tied heavily to pagan worship in the temple of Aphrodite. When Paul speaks of “fornicators” (Greek pornos [πόρνος], meaning sexually immoral), he’s addressing behavior that was normalized in their culture but intolerable among God’s people.

    Here, Paul clarifies that he is not telling them to withdraw from unbelievers who commit such sins, if that were the case, they would have to “go out of the world.” Instead, his concern is with professing believers who persist in sin without repentance. These individuals, who call themselves “brothers,” defile the church’s witness and fellowship.

    Notice in verse 11 how Paul expands the list beyond fornication to include greed (covetous), idolatry (worship of created things or false gods), verbal abuse (railer), drunkenness, and extortion. The phrase “with such an one no not to eat” refers to both table fellowship and participation in the Lord’s Supper, a clear sign of broken fellowship due to unrepentant sin.

    Broader Context

    The surrounding chapter provides the full picture of church discipline. In verses 1–8, Paul rebukes their pride in tolerating an egregious sin, a man having a sexual relationship with his stepmother. Their failure to act shows a lack of grief and discernment. By verses 9–13, Paul draws a dividing line between the world (those “without”) and the church (those “within”).

    Paul’s rhetorical question in verse 12, “do not ye judge them that are within?”, reminds us that the responsibility to guard holiness lies with the church. God alone judges those outside the covenant community. In verse 13, the command “put away from among yourselves that wicked person” echoes Deuteronomy 17:7 (“so shalt thou put the evil away from among you”) and shows that even in the New Covenant, God’s people are called to holiness.

    Application

    Appreciating God’s Greatness

    God is both merciful and holy. His church reflects His character by holding fast to truth and purity, not to earn His favor, but to walk in His light (1 John 1:7).

    For the Believer

    This passage challenges us to love enough to confront. Paul’s instructions are not about harsh judgment but about protecting the Body of Christ and restoring the sinner. If we ignore sin among those who claim Christ, we dishonor the Lord and harm our witness.

    Call to Action: Examine your circle of fellowship. Are there unrepentant patterns of sin that need loving confrontation? Pray for humility and courage, knowing that your goal is restoration, not rejection.

    For the Unbeliever

    God’s people are called to a different standard, but the invitation to join His family remains open. Christ bore the penalty for all sin, including fornication, idolatry, and greed, so that those who repent and believe can be made new (2 Corinthians 5:17).

    Final Encouragement

    Holiness may cost relationships, but it honors God and strengthens His church. Stand firm in truth, and trust God’s justice for those outside the fellowship.

    Our Prayer For You

    Lord God, give us discerning hearts and loving courage to keep Your church pure. Help us walk humbly and seek restoration for our brothers and sisters caught in sin. And for those outside the faith, draw them with Your kindness into repentance. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

    Closing

    If you’ve found these daily verses encouraging, enlightening, or fruitful, please consider helping us spread the truth and light of God’s Word by subscribing to the blog and YouTube channels and liking and following the Facebook page. Most of all, share Believers of Biblical Truth and our links with others who may need the sermons and daily teachings just as much as we do.

    You are loved, so much in fact, that we want you to know and be Believers of Biblical Truth.

    Shalom Shalom.