March 19: CHIEF OF SINNERS

Pursue love, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 1 Corinthians 14:1

Paul’s dramatic conversion from a killer of Christians to the most prolific writer of the New Testament is a key aspect in the urgency of his writings. The before-and-after contrast in his life, though indeed dramatic, should not leave any of us thinking that our need for change is any less than his was. And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me in to the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. (1 Timothy 1:12-14)

Paul’s admonishment to pursue love springs directly from Christ’s character. Having been pursued by Him, Paul understands that he can take no credit whatsoever for the exceedingly abundant grace of our Lord. But what he can do, empowered by gratitude, is encourage his hearers to see the true character of God, perfectly embodied in His Son. Paul adds: This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief (v.15).

It is altogether appropriate that each of us should desire spiritual gifts. For the sake of every wandering soul with whom you are in contact, such supernatural gifts will surprise even you, as you genuinely look out for the spiritual safety and welfare of others. You are instructed to especially [desire] that you may prophesy. What does that mean? Is it about foretelling? Or forthtelling? Such a gift will always be in perfect alignment with Scripture*, pointing people to the faith-deepening written Word as a preparation for the soon return of Christ.

Beloved, are you willing to be put…in to the ministry? Can the Lord count [you] faithful as He did Paul? Whatever you were formerly, He wants to cover you with His grace, count you faithful, enable you through His Spirit, and give you spiritual gifts that empower your testimony of Him. Controversy and conflict are escalating in the world. But the Bible teaches that there will also be a remnant who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus Christ… For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy (Revelation 12:17b, 19:10b).

For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 1 Corinthians 14:31

*Note: Much of God’s Word is prophetic, its purpose being to grow our faith and deepen our confidence in divine promises yet to be fulfilled. Isaiah saw into our day when many who claim the name of Christ will not serve the Bread of Life or wear His robe of righteousness (see Isaiah 4:1). Warnings against false prophets prove that the true gift of prophecy is still active and will continue until the return of Christ. (Isaiah 8:20; Matthew 24:4,5, 24; Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-11; 13:9-10; 1 John 4:1)