Bible Chapter: I Corinthians 11

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Paul followed the example of Christ.  What is a Christlike person?  Christians say they are Christlike and live a life following His teachings, or they are striving towards that goal.  To know what Christlikeness is requires that we carefully study His human life and the teachings He gave.  We must also study the Bible to learn the characteristics of God.  Then we can follow His example.
    Paul praised the Corinthians for holding to and applying his teachings. The Christian life must impact every aspect of our daily lives.  Paul talked to them about moral standards that God expects of His followers.  We are to be set apart from the rest of the world.  These have not changed and we must learn what pleases God and apply that in our lives.
    This chapter also has some extensive teaching about Communion.  This is a very sacred time, a sacred event that churches are to regularly share.  It is a powerful reminder of what Jesus did on the cross, of His sacrifice for our sins.  Communion must not be taken lightly.  We are to examine our hearts and make sure we stand clean before God before we partake.  We hold the symbols of the body and blood of Jesus in our hands.  Communion must draw us closer to Jesus.  Taking Communion with the wrong attitude can cost a person their health and even their life.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Having learned and continuing to learn Christlikeness, I must apply it in my daily life.  That is sometimes easier said than done.  Yet, I cannot make excuses to say that this is not necessary, (or even impossible) for God expects His followers to actually do what He commands.  First Peter chapter one tells us to be holy, even as God is holy.  This is God’s expectation.  Without being cocky or proud, we should expect to live a holy life.  The more we give Jesus Lordship in our lives the more we can live a life that pleases Him.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I can help people by living a holy life.  Unbelievers don’t grasp the concept and many don’t think it can be done.  They need to see it.  Many believers struggle with it thinking that only a small percentage of super-saints can make it to that place.  Paul said that he set an example for them.  I believe that all Christians should strive to be able to say that.  As long as we are progressing towards that place we are going in the direction God desires.