Our focus the last few weeks has been on Paul's discussion of specific questions submitted to him by members of the Corinthian church. Regarding gifts of the Spirit (Chapters 12-14) in evidence in that congregation, Paul's main point is to remind people of the purpose of such gifts -- for the good of all. Higher gifts are those which more obviously benefit the body of Christ and are less prone to individual exercise and losing a sense of how they benefit the common good. This is consistent with his emphasis on coaching a very diverse congregation toward cooperation, flexibility, and unity.
Last week we focused on Paul's logical thinking about the importance of belief in resurrection (chapter 15) We might infer from his discussion that there were those, even in that early time of the church, who de-emphasized or even disdained a belief in resurrection all together. From Paul's point of view -- remember he encountered the RISEN Christ in his conversion experience -- belief in resurrection is so critical that without it all Christian practice and belief becomes meaningless. In particular, he argues that the extent of suffering he and others endure for Christ makes no sense whatsoever if there is not the promise of exalted life afterwards.
This week we will skim II Corinthians and look ahead to Paul's letters to Galatia, Ephesus, Philippi, and Colossae.
