1 Corinthians 16:17-24 (KJV)
This passage includes Paul’s final greetings and instructions to the Corinthians. Here are some key points:
Verses 17-18: Paul expresses gratitude for the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus, who have refreshed his spirit and supplied what was lacking from the Corinthians.
Verses 19-20: Paul sends greetings from the churches of Asia, Aquila and Priscilla, and all the brethren.
Verses 21-24: Paul writes a personal salutation with his own hand, emphasizing the importance of loving the Lord Jesus Christ. He states, “If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha” (v. 22), which means accursed or devoted to destruction. He concludes with a blessing of grace and his love in Christ Jesus.
1 Corinthians 12:3 (KJV)
This verse is part of a discussion on spiritual gifts and the work of the Holy Spirit. Paul states:
Verse 3: “Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.”
Concept of Loving the Lord
From these passages, we can draw several insights about loving the Lord:
Recognition and Gratitude: Paul acknowledges those who have supported and refreshed him, showing that love for the Lord is often expressed through love and service to others (1 Cor 16:17-18).
Community and Fellowship: The greetings from various churches and individuals highlight the importance of Christian fellowship and mutual support (1 Cor 16:19-20).
Personal Commitment: Paul’s personal salutation and the strong statement in verse 22 emphasize that loving the Lord is a personal and serious commitment. The term “Anathema Maranatha” underscores the gravity of not loving the Lord.
Spiritual Authenticity: In 1 Corinthians 12:3, Paul explains that true acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord comes through the Holy Spirit. This means that genuine love for the Lord is a result of the Holy Spirit’s work in a believer’s heart.
All things considered, loving the Lord entails thankfulness, a sense of belonging, devotion, and spiritual sincerity. It's about showing that love in our deeds and interactions with other people, and accepting Jesus as Lord through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Comments