In his time of ministry, Paul established many churches. The New Testament, from 1 Corinthians through 2 Thessalonians, are letters Paul wrote to these various churches. His travels for Jesus kept him so busy it was impossible always to visit each one in person, but he tried hard to keep them on track and make sure they were teaching in accordance with God’s Word. Paul dealt with each church as a whole, a congregation of people, and through his teachings, God deals with our hearts individually.
While instructing the churches at Corinth, Paul also teaches us the importance of faith and reliance on God in order to keep ourselves holy and our conduct in line with what God expects. Most important to him was that the people glorified and credited God, not him or any other leader he might provide, for saving their souls and forgiving their sins.
For these early churches, it was especially hard for the people to keep their pagan beliefs and cultural habits separate from their new-found faith in a God that is ever present, but not seen. In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses some of the struggles this first church faces and answers the questions that arose.
After Paul’s first letter, the church in Corinth was influenced by false teachers who tried to turn them against Paul; telling them he was corrupt and dishonest. They criticized not only his speech and appearance, but accused him of being unfit to call himself an apostle of Jesus Christ. Paul then sent Titus to deal with this situation. In 2 Corinthians Paul commends the church for opposing these teachers and assures them of his authority as an apostle. 2 Cor. 4: 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
In his letter to the Galatians, Paul addresses a problem concerning the gospel based on faith verses a gospel the church had decided to follow based on good works. Gal. 2: 16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ. Gal 6: 10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men.
Paul’s letter to the Ephesians addresses his concerns to a group of believers who are rich beyond measure in Jesus, yet living as beggars because they are ignorant of this wealth. Paul reminds them to count their blessings of acceptance, redemption, forgiveness, life, grace…the list goes on. Christians learn about a spiritual walk rooted in our spiritual wealth.
Paul writes a thank you letter to the Philippians expressing appreciation for their help in his time of need. He sends along a message on unity which the people desperately need to hear. Phil. 2: 14 Do all things without murmurings and disputing.
His letter to the Colossian church teaches the importance of putting Christ first in every area of life. We are to be rooted in Him, alive in Him, hidden in Him, and complete in Him.
Paul encourages the Thessalonian church to embrace their faith, increase their love for one another, rejoice, pray and give thanks always.
After his first letter, the Thessalonians allowed false doctrine to be spread and they began to doubt their faith. Paul replants the seed of faith and encourages them to be confident in their faith. He then deals with a misunderstanding about the day of Christ’s return by recounting the events that must first take place.
All of these teachings that Paul gave to the first churches should still be followed today. The size of the church building or the sturdiness of its construction will not be judged, but the sincerity and faithfulness of each member. In the book of Revelation, verses 2-3 in John’s vision, Jesus Himself addresses the churches and, although some He commends more highly than others, He finds “somewhat against” each one. The first mentioned is to the church in Ephesus: “because thou hast left thy first love.”
To the church in Pergamos: “I have a few things against thee, because you have there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam… So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.”
To the church in Thyatira: “because thou sufferest that woman, Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess…”
To the church in Sardis: Be watchful and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die. For I have not found thy works perfect before God.”
To the church in Philadelphia: “Behold I come quickly. Hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”
To the church of Laodiceans: I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot…As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.”
No church is perfect, so we have lots of room for improvement and growth. Let us pray for our churches and our pastors that the Lord would lead them in making the changes needed in order to bring honor to His name and lead the lost to salvation. A search of the scriptures and a renewal of our faith should bring us all to the knowledge of what changes need to be made.
