Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Bits & Pieces: Biblical Saints called Beloved Brethren

"...but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord," (I Corinthians 15:57, 58).

* In these closing verses of his extensive teaching on resurrection, Paul expresses a tender word of encouragement to the Corinthian Christians. 'Beloved brethren' was a term those believers needed to hear, endearing them to Paul as a fellow-struggler, as well as teacher. It should strengthen our resolve to stand firm, also, knowing that we are brethren beloved of the Lord.

* On the basis of the Lord Jesus' victory over the grave, Paul exhorted the Corinthian Christians to persevere in the work of the Lord. He addressed them endearingly, as beloved brethren, appealing as a fellow disciple as much as an apostle. What an encouragement to our own hearts, to realize that we, too, are brethren beloved of the Lord.

* Paul closes the resurrection chapter on a note of triumph and entreaty. In the light of Jesus' victory over death, Paul lovingly exhorts them, and us, to persevere. If we really comprehended how truly beloved we are in the Lord, what a difference it would make!

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