This week our weekly Bible reading schedule has us in 1 Corinthians 10. The chapter begins with Paul continuing his point from the previous chapter. Paul was committed to living cautiously and disciplined so he wouldn’t lose his salvation (1 Corinthians 9:24-27). This is something that can happen to every Christian!
During the exodus, an entire generation of Israelites failed to reach the Promised Land and died in the wilderness because they failed to obey God carefully. This happened despite them experiencing amazing blessings (1 Corinthians 10:1-5). What were some sins the dangers on their journey?
Idolatry (1 Corinthians 10:6-7)
- Many of the Corinthians were having struggles with idolatry. Some of them were going into pagan temples, participating in pagan feasts, and failing to consider the weaker consciences of their brethren.
- Paul reminds them of how God responded to the idolatry Israel participated in while Moses was away on the mountain (Exodus 32:1-6, 19-24). Their idolatry was rooted in a lack of trust in God’s plan, timing, and a desire to seize control. They wanted to control God and make Him more whenever they desired.
- We can also fail to trust in God’s instructions, desire things God has forbidden, and putting other things before God.
Immorality (1 Corinthians 10:8)
- Many Corinthians struggled with immorality (1 Corinthians 5-6).
- Paul reminds them of the occasion when Israel committed immorality and idolatry with Moabite harlots (Numbers 25:1-9). These sins brought about the swift judgment of God!
- We can also fail to respect God’s will for sex in marriage. We can begin crossing the boundaries for purity and getting too close to people of the opposite sex who are not our spouse.
Complaining (1 Corinthians 10:9-10)
- The nation grumbled and complained against God while going around Edom (Numbers 21:4-6). This provoked God’s jealousy and wrath.
- The nation also grumbled against God’s leaders and invited His swift judgment (Numbers 16:1-50).
- We can also grumble, complain, and display ingratitude for God’s blessings. These things make God just as angry today as they did during Israel’s journey to Canaan.
What can we learn from Israel’s mistakes?
- We need to be humble (1 Corinthians 10:11-12). We need to humbly acknowledge that we can fall away from God.
- We need to avoid being foolish (1 Corinthians 10:13a). There is nothing new the devil is throwing our way. The times may change, but Satan’s way and tactics don’t!
- We need to be dependent on God (1 Corinthians 10:13b). God is faithful and will always help us against temptation. But we must choose to travel the path of escape He provides!
Conclusion:
Have you begun the journey to the spiritual Canaan?