Faith without religion.
Paul’s Apostolic Authority and Spiritual Fatherhood
In a recent teaching, we delved into Paul’s efforts to establish his authority as an apostle to the believers in Corinth. Paul, in his letters, contrasts the true apostles with false teachers, emphasizing the suffering and sacrifices made by the apostles. He seeks to draw the Corinthians back to him, not to shame them, but to warn them as a loving father would his children. Paul highlights his unique role as their spiritual father, having introduced them to Christ through the gospel.
Paul’s message underscores the importance of genuine spiritual leadership and the responsibility of believers to discern truth from falsehood. He reminds the Corinthians that while they may have many instructors, they have only one spiritual father who begot them through the gospel. This relationship is not about authority for its own sake but about guiding them in truth and love.
The teaching also explores the profound power of God’s Word. Just as rain and snow nourish the earth, God’s Word, when shared, brings forth new life and faith. This concept is beautifully illustrated in Isaiah 55, where God’s Word is likened to rain that accomplishes His purposes. As believers, we are called to share God’s Word, which is described as truth, light, and life, bringing freedom and transformation.
In understanding God, we see Him as a being of truth, liberty, light, fire, spirit, love, and life. These attributes are interconnected and manifest in His Word and in Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh. Through Jesus, God entered the human experience, offering salvation and a perfect example of obedience and love.
This teaching encourages us to embrace our role in sharing God’s Word, recognizing its power to bring new life and deepen our relationship with Him. As we do so, we participate in God’s work of bringing more children into His kingdom, guided by His truth and love.