1 Corinthians 9-10

(July 21, 2015)

                There is a tension that exists between a pair of concepts Paul explains.  The first of this is contained in these chapters – the Lord will not suffer us to be tempted above that which we are able bear, but will provide a way to escape. The second is that we are all sinners, which can be related with Paul’s thorn in the flesh or his description of that which he would do he does not and that which he would not do, that he does.

                How can these two principles, contradictory at first glance, both be true?  We have the capacity to avoid all sin, and yet we are every one of us a sinner constantly.  Is it really just the matter of us being in open rebellion against the Lord at all times?

                The only resolution that I can find is that.  Each of us, despite our efforts to serve the Lord, remain in rebellion against Him.  And yet He patiently serves and suffers for our sakes for the day when we turn back to Him and leave behind our rebellions.  As much as we might like to excuse ourselves, there is never a justification for our sins.  We must turn from our constant rebellion against God and beg for His help to empower us to return to Him both physically and spiritually.