INTRODUCTION
Outline:
1. Paul’s Troubled Entrance
2. Paul’s Trusted Exhortation
3. Paul’s Triumphant Exit
Introductory Remarks.
1. In our lesson today, we will be discussing God’s significant work in a city that was wholly given to idolatry and sexual immorality. Paul arrives in the city of Corinth and is taken away (troubled) by what he witnessed. Corinth was a thriving city with grand commerce. It is similar to the many cities in the State of California (i.e., San Francisco, Los Angeles). Some have called the Books of Corinthians First and Second Californians. The city of Corinth was called “the eyes of Greece.” Nearly 150 years before Christ, it was destroyed by the Roman Army. Julius Caesar later rebuilt it, and it became the metropolis of Achaia. It was, therefore, an important commercial center. In such a center of activity, the apostle Paul planted the gospel seed and established a great congregation of God.
2. First, we will discuss Paul’s troubled entrance into Corinth. After leaving the city of Athens, he traveled 50 miles to the city of Corinth. While entering the city, his spirit was tremendously distressed. He found no fruit in the city of Athens. After preaching so boldly on Mars’ Hill, only a handful of men and women followed him after mentioning the resurrection of Christ in his stirring address. He was pressed in his spirit and determined to go to Corinth after a perceived failure in his work in Athens. After entering the city, he became even more despondent. The apostle experienced a troubled entrance into the city.
3. Secondly, let us notice Paul’s trusted exhortation in Corinth. Luke wrote: “Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have (much) people in this city,” Acts 18:9-10. This text points out that God is working in the life of his servants. This comforting message from the Lord enabled the apostle to begin his work in the city of Corinth confidently. We should remember that: “God calls things that are not; as if they are” because He is in charge of all things, Romans 4:17. The apostle would experience tremendous success due to the Lord’s visit and words of encouragement. During our hour of doubt, despair, and discouragement, the Lord provides the same exhortation unto us, even now. I am with thee; I will never forsake thee; should be the words we reflect on when our spirits are troubled, Hebrews 13:5.
4. Lastly, we will pay attention to Paul’s triumphant exit from the city of Corinth. Paul labored in the city of Corinth for one and a half years (18 months). Through his preaching of the gospel of Christ and the life and conduct of the saints, these would be seen in sharp contrast to the sinful lives of those living in this pagan city, filled with all its immoralities. During his time there, he would write two letters to the Thessalonians. He left the city after establishing the church at Corinth amidst great strife and hatred of the Jewish leaders. He would now turn to the Gentiles, that God: “Would visit them (the Gentiles), to take out of them a people for His name,” Acts 15:14; Romans 10:19-21. Luke wrote: “And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with his entire house; and many of the Corinthians hearing, believed and were baptized,” Acts 18:8. With this introduction, let’s notice our first point: Paul's troubled entrance into the city.
BODY OF LESSON
I PAUL’S TROUBLED ENTRANCE
A. Paul's entrance into the city. He entered this city with a troubled spirit because of his seeming failure in preaching in Macedonia and Athens. We need some background to understand why Paul had a troubled entrance into the city of Corinth! How do you know this? Observe.
1. Beaten, imprisoned in Philippi, he and Silas for interrupting the sales of “soothsaying of a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying,” Acts 16:16-24. For this act of compassion,
a. “Paul and Silas were brought before the magistrates, who rent off their clothes and commanded them to be beaten.”
b. “And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: Who, having received such a charge, thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks.”
2. The song of praise unto God: “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them.”
ILLUSTRATION: The conversion of the Jailer, Acts 16:25-34.
3. Release and departure from Philippi: “And they went out of the prison, and entered into the house of Lydia: and when they had seen the brethren, they comforted them, and departed,” Acts 16:40.
Illustrate: Come into my house, Acts 16:15. The house of Lydia, Acts 16:40. I will build my church, Matthew 16:18-19; the church of Christ, Romans 16:16.
B. At this time in Paul’s ministry, we find him and Silas leaving Philippi and journeying through other parts of Macedonia. His first stops were the cities of Thessalonica and Berea. Consider,
1. City of Thessalonica. Leaving Philippi: “They came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue for the Jews:” This was important because Philippi had none.
a. First, “And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures.” He expounded to them out of the Old Testament Scriptures, Jesus as Messiah.
b. Second, “Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.”
2. Some believed: “And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and the chief women, not a few.” There were some believers in Thessalonica.
3. The Jews: “But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.”
4. Brethren sent them away: “And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night,” Acts 17:1-9. They were escorted to the city of Berea.
2. City of Berea: “Who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews. These were nobler than those in Thessalonica:”
a. Received the word: “In that, they received the word (the Old Testament prophecies regarding Jesus) with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore, many of them also believed in honorable women, which were Greeks, and of men, not a few.”
b. The Jews: “But when the Jews of Thessalonica knew that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.”
c. Brethren: “And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and Timotheus abode there still,” Acts 17:10-14.
d. Conclusion: Paul and Silas ran out of both cities. It appears that Paul did these two things:
1) He left Silas and Timothy in Berea, Acts 17:14.
2) He left Berea alone and journeyed unto Athens, Acts 17:15.
C. City of Athens: “And they that conducted Paul (his other companions) brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed. Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry,” Acts 17:15-16. In other words, he was troubled by what he witnessed there. Notice what he does:
1. Sent (word) for Silas and Timotheus to come to Athens to join him without delay. There is tremendous work to be done in this city.
a. In other words, come without delay.
b. Paul needed support and encouragement to face the vast challenges in Athens. His spirit was “stirred in him,” Acts 17:16.
c. Question: Have you ever been in your preaching as Paul is now in his?
d. Answer: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed,” 2 Corinthians 4:8-9. The ministry of the gospel of Christ will be filled with great joy and many sorrows as we strive to build the congregation of God. As Paul awaited help in Athens,
2. He disputed with the Jews: “Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him,” Acts 17:17. Observe,
a. Again, he turns his attention to the Jews in the synagogue and the marketplace daily (ignoring his mandate from the Lord), Acts 22:18-21; Acts 26:13-19.
The Lord said: “Unto (the Gentiles) whom now I send thee,” Acts 26:17.
b. The Lord called him a minister unto the heathens, Galatians 1:15-16.
c. He was appointed an apostle unto the Gentiles, Galatians 2:6-10.
d. He should: “Preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,” Ephesians 2:8. He was granted the: “Mystery of the gospel,” Ephesians 3:1-7.
e. Conclusion: Do what the Lord asks us to do, and there will be success in our preaching and teaching. Jehovah's promise: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it,” Isaiah 55:11.
3. Certain philosophers: “Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans and the Stoicks encountered him. And some said, what will this babbler say? Other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection,” Acts 17:18.
4. They brought Paul unto (the) Areopagus: “Saying, may we know what this new doctrine, of which thou speaketh is? For thou bringeth certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean,” Acts 17:19-21.
Note: The Areopagus – “martial peak, a rocky height in the city of Athens...lying towards the western end of the Acropolis.” Where men gathered: “Either to tell or to hear some new thing.” Paul preached Christ while standing upon this rock.
5. Paul’s sermon on Mars’ Hill: Outline of Paul’s sermon on Mars’ Hill to the Athenians. I’m only outlining it here, but you read it later. He presented:
a. He is the God of true devotions, Acts 17:22-23.
b. He is the God of creation, Acts 17:24.
c. He is the God of true worship, not of men’s hands, Acts 17:25.
d. He is the God of all humanity, Acts 17:26-27; Isaiah 55:6-9.
e. He is the God of life and prosperity, Acts 17:28-29; Acts 14:17.
f. He is the God of judgment, Acts 17:30-31, Hebrews 9:27.
6. The sermon’s conclusion: “And when they had heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: another said: we will hear thee again of this matter. So, Paul departed from among them,” Acts 17:32-34. All foolish and rambling speech will be weighed in the judgment.
ILLUSTRATION: “Every idle word and speech,” Matthew 12:36-37; Luke 12:2-3.
D. A perceived failure in Athens. As mentioned earlier, the increase comes from God. We have seen Paul and others preaching successfully throughout the Book of Acts. Why did it seem to him he was a failure and ineffective?
1. Paul’s sermon yielded no fruits. He was determined to leave the city of Athens for a friendlier and more fruitful field. The city of Athens was not ripe unto harvest. He was not running out but left with great uncertainty.
2. Are there converts or increases in the communities where we are preaching? The word increase, in Gr., is auxano, i.e., to grow and increase, become more excellent. This word is used to describe John the Baptist and Jesus’ growth: “And they (the child) grew (increased), and wax strong in the spirit,” Luke 1:80, Luke 2:40.
3. Let’s consider the work of the 1st-century church in sowing the seed of the kingdom of God. Observe...
a. First, in Jerusalem: “And the word of God increased, and a great company of priest was obedient to the faith,” Acts 6:7.
b. Further, in Antioch: “And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned to the Lord,” Acts 11:21.
c. Next, in persecutions: “But the word of God grew and multiplied,” Acts 12:24.
d. Finally, in Lystra and Iconium: “And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number(s) daily,” Acts 16:5.
4. Conclusion: It was due to the faith and tenacity of the entire congregation that enabled their work to: “Bring forth fruits unto God.” Don’t let the lack of fruit cause you to doubt the one who gives the increase.
a. Remember, our work is to preach the word. Plant the seed, Luke 8:4-15.
b. Our heavenly Father’s work is to raise the plant, 1 Corinthians 3:6-8.
c. I believe this could have been Paul’s problem. He has forgotten, "Who grants the increase?"
E. Paul departs Athens: “After these things, Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth,” Acts 18:1. He left the city without any visible: “Fruits from among the Gentiles,” Romans 1:13. He felt like a failure in his work for the Lord. His spirit was severely wounded!
1. Preacher, how do you know he felt this way? Let’s hear his own words regarding Corinth: “And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with Excellency of speech or wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, fear, and much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God,” 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
a. I came to you: “Not with excellence of speech or wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.” I did not come with my own words but those of Jesus.
b. I determined: “Not to know anything among you, save (except) Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” He had one sermon outline!
c. I was with you:
1) “In weakness, feebleness (of mind, body and spirit).”
2) “In fear (with alarm or frighten: —being afraid, fearful, or terrorized).”
3) “In much trembling (a "trembling," i.e., quaking or shaking with fear).
4) Brothers, have you ever been in this straight yourself? Pray for boldness!
ILLUSTRATION: Vince Lombardi once remarked: “Fear makes cowards of us all.” These words he uttered to his Green Bay Packard as they faced the final playoff game for the championship. They were down before the 2nd half began.
2. Every preacher, teacher, or personal worker has found themselves in a similar situation when they question their faithfulness. I charge you:
a. Not to allow a seeming failure to discourage you in the work of the Lord.
b. Setbacks are not permanent. They are opportunities for us to re-examine our approach to the work.
c. Ask God for His guidance and remain reliant upon Him.
d. Paul wrote to the Corinthians:
1) First, “We are laborers together with God,” 1 Corinthians 3:9.
2) Next, “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain,” 2 Corinthians 6:1.
3) Finally, our labor is not in vain in the Lord, 1 Corinthians 15:58.
3. The word laborers, in Gr., synergies, which means a co-laborer, i.e., coadjutor: —companion in labor and laborer’s together, Philippians 2:25; Philippians 4:3; Colossians 4:11; 3 John 1:8.
4. Our work in the name of the Lord will be successful. We will work sometimes in the valley of despair for a season – but we will again stand upon the mountaintop and proclaim the word of God with tremendous success.
a. The apostle leaves Athens with a broken spirit.
b. The healer of all broken hearts: will speak to him about His future work in the city of Corinth, Luke 4:16-19. This brings us to the next point, Paul’s trusted exhortation...
II PAUL’S TRUSTED EXHORTATION
A. Came to Corinth. After these things, Paul said, “Departed from Athens and came to Corinth. A certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately comes from Italy, with his wife Priscilla (because Claudius commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and he came unto them,” Acts 18:1-2.
1. After arriving in Corinth, he joined up with a family that had recently been expelled from Rome, like many other Jews.
2. Claudius Caesar, the Emperor of Rome, blamed the Jews for Rome's wrongs. Therefore, all Jews were compelled to leave Rome. This brought this couple to Corinth and their work as tent makers.
3. He reigned during the church's growth at Antioch, Acts 11:27-30.
B. The same craft: “And because he was of the same craft, he abodes with him, and wrought: for by their occupation, they were tent-makers,” Acts 18:3. Observe,
1. Sometimes, the minister has to work a secular job to sustain his work in the church. Paul’s support had not yet arrived. Notice that Paul’s work in Corinth began on the job. Here is our work outside the home and the church.
2. Follow your company's rules for religious activities on the job.
a. If you don’t know these policies, ask your Human Resource Representative.
b. Then follow them without wavering.
c. Be kind and respectful to all. God will send you those who: “Hunger and thirst after righteousness,” Matthew 5:6.
3. Use this time to plant the seed; invite them to the worship service. Once they arrive, shower them with the love of Christ.
C. Paul’s work among the Jews: “And he reasoned in the synagogue every Sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks,” Acts 18:4.
1. Pressed in the spirit: “And when Silas and Timotheus came from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ,” Acts 18:5. Consider...
a. His spirit was constrained, oppressed, and distressed: “To testify to the Jews concerning the Christ,” 2 Corinthians 5:14-15. No doubt:
b. He felt like Jeremiah: “Then I said: I will not mention him, nor speak anymore in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay,” Jeremiah 20:9.
c. God will lift your spirits when he sees you are at your wit's end. He may not come when I want Him, but He’s always on time! Amen, church!
Consider these servants of God:
1) Job’s spirit: “For I am full of matter, the spirit within me constraineth me...I will open my lips and answer,” Job 32:18-20.
2) David’s heart: “My heart was hot within me, while I was meditating (the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue. LORD, make me know mine end, and the measure of my days...that I may know how frail I am,” Psalms 39:3-4.
3) Peter and John: “But Peter and John answered and said unto them, whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you...seen and heard,” Acts 4:13-20.
2. Silas and Timothy's arrival in Corinth: Paul was indeed encouraged!
a. Help has arrived for him in Corinth: Silas and Timothy have joined the work. This work must always be seen as a team effort!
b. Silas may have also brought some financial support. The church at Philippi had: “Sent to Thessalonica once and again unto his necessity,” Philippians 4:16. This is something the church should do more frequently, Galatians 6:9-10.
c. However, the help that mattered, for Paul’s work had not yet arrived!
d. I’m talking about that comforting and assuring voice that comes sometime in the wee hours of the morning. David wrote:
1) First, “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning,” Psalms 30:5.
2) Further, “And he brought forth his people with joy, and his chosen with gladness,” Psalms 105:43.
3) Lastly, “They that sow in tears shall reap joyfully. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless return with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves (bundled fruits) with him,” Psalms 126:5-6.
e. But for now, he faces opposition from the Jewish leaders in Corinth.
3. The Jew’s opposition: “When they (the Jews) opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook off his raiment, and said unto them: Your blood is upon your heads; I am clean; from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles,” Acts 18:6-7; Acts 20:26-27.
a. Like Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens, he now faces opposition from the Jews.
b. He was compelled to preach unto them first, but since they rejected his word.
c. Now, he turns to the Gentiles. This is what the Lord was waiting for from Paul.
4. I send thee unto the Gentile. The Lord said unto him: “Make haste, and get thee quickly out of Jerusalem: for they will not receive thy testimony concerning me...Depart: for I will send thee far (from) hence unto the Gentiles,” Acts 22:18-21.
a. Called to be a minister unto the Gentiles, Acts 9:15-16.
b. Called from his mother's womb to be a minister unto the heathens, Galatians 1:15-16.
c. Given the “right hand of fellowship” to be a minister unto the Gentiles, Galatians 2:8-9.
d. Sent to preach among the Gentile: “The unsearchable riches of Christ,” Ephesians 3:8. He begins this great work in Corinth. The door of faith unto the Gentiles is now fully opened, with Paul as its apostle.
D. Success among the Gentiles: “And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthian’s hearing believed, and were baptized,” Acts 18:8. Strange isn’t it, when we do what the Lord desires; we immediately experience success!
1. Crispus and Gaius were the first converts in Corinth. These he baptized with his own hands, 1 Corinthians 1:14-15. Baptism is a part of the gospel message!
ILLUSTRATION: Billy Graham’s writing on baptism. He taught Christ did not send Paul to baptize but to preach the gospel, 1 Corinthians 1:16-17.
2. We see in Corinth familiar acts of obedience, outlined in the Book of Acts: hearing, believing, and baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus. This verse outlines the necessary “pattern of conversion” obeyed by these believers in Corinth. I wish I had some help! Paul now receives his trusted exhortation from the Lord. Notice:
E. Trusted exhortation: “Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision. Be not afraid, but speak...I have much people in this city,” Acts 18:9-10. This visit was timely and needed! Consider the Lord’s words of exhortation,
1. First, the Lord says: “Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace.” Could it be said that Paul was afraid? This giant of all preachers! Hear the apostle Paul’s own words in this matter:
a. To the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 2:1-5. Let’s discuss Paul’s fears. He explains:
1) I came to you: “Not with excellence of speech or wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.” I did not come to you with my own words but those of Jesus, as the Christ.
2) I determined: “Not to know anything among you, save (except) Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” He had one sermon outline!
3) I was with you:
a) “In weakness, feebleness (of mind, body and spirit).”
b) “In fear (with alarm and frighten: —being afraid, fearful, or terrorized).”
c) “In much trembling (a "trembling," i.e., quaking or shaking with fear).
4) Brothers, have you ever been in this straight yourself? Pray for boldness!
b. To the Ephesians, Ephesians 6:18-20. Here, he asks the saints to pray for him, that with “boldness he might preach the mystery of the gospel.” We should pray for boldness when fear arises in our hearts.
2. Further, he says: “I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee.”
3. Finally, he concludes: “For I have many people in this city.” God calls things that are not as if they are because He controls all things (Romans 4:17).
4. Paul’s success in Corinth: “And he continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them,” Acts 18:11.
5. Jehovah's call to Joshua. The scene is this: Moses has just passed, and the Lord speaks to Joshua. Observe... Jehovah’s words of encouragement to him:
a. First, “There shall not (be) any man able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail...nor forsake thee.”
b. Further, “Be strong and of good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I swear unto their fathers to give them.”
c. Finally, “Only be strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right or the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest,” Joshua 1:5-7. This was God’s promise to Joshua like it was unto Moses!
d. Conclusion: We have this same promise: “I will never leave you, nor forsake you,” Hebrews 13:5; Matthew 28:19-20. If God: “Be for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31-39. Let’s now look at the last point, Paul’s triumphant exit.
III PAUL’S TRIUMPHANT EXIT
A. Paul now begins his exit from Corinth. Having begun this work, he later wrote unto them: “I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which Jesus Christ gives you.”
1. First, “That in everything you are enriched by Him, in all utterance, and all knowledge; even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you.”
2. Further, “So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall confirm you unto the end.”
3. Finally, “That you may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord,” 1 Corinthians 1:4-9.
4. Conclusion: Paul established this work and left it self-supporting and “not behind in any spiritual gifts,” 1 Corinthians 12:1-11. Unlike the church in Rome, which lacked spiritual gifts, Romans 1:13.
B. He departs the city of Corinth and goes down to Ephesus, Acts 18:19. Paul is now confident that the Lord is with him and his work.
1. A great door of faith was opened unto the Gentiles, Acts 14:27. The fruit of God’s harvest was manifest in Corinth through the preaching of Paul and his entire team of ministers. Paul wrote to them regarding:
a. Their old life: “And such were some of you: but ye are washed, ye are sanctified, and ye are justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
b. Their new life: “Therefore if any man (any of you) be in Christ, he is (you are) a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things become new,” 2 Corinthians 5:17.
2. Peter reported at the Jerusalem Council: “That God has visited them (the Gentiles), to take out of them a people for His name,” Acts 15:14; Isaiah 43:21.
ILLUSTRATION: Cornelius’ Conversion with all His House, Acts 10:34-48; Acts 11:1-18.
3. Amos wrote: “In that day will I raise the tabernacle of David that is fallen, and close up the breaches thereof; and I will raise his ruins, and I will build it as in the days of old...and of all the heathen, which are called by my name, saith the LORD that doeth this,” Amos 9:11-12. James, the Lord’s brother, referred to this prophecy in his address at the Conference, Acts 15:15-17.
4. Paul wrote of Israel:
a. But I say: “Did not Israel know? First, Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation, I will anger you,” Deuteronomy 32:21; Romans 10:19. Paul continues,
b. But Esaias: “Very bold(ly) saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. But Israel he saith, I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people all day,” Romans 10:20-21. Paul is quoting the prophecy of Isaiah 65:1-2.
c. Peter wrote: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people: that he should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which hath not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy,” 1 Peter 2:9-10.
5. Conclusion: Even then, Israel had not learned to hear the word of the Lord. They were disobedient and gainsaying people.
a. There will be some in the audience to which we preach who have the same kind of heart of disobedience and rejection.
b. It will take determination, prayer, and patience on your part: “If God's peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will,” 2 Timothy 2:24-26.
C. The testimony of God. The preaching of the cross gave him success in this city. Notice his words, speaking of his entrance and work in the city of Corinth:
1. First, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved, it is the power of God,” 1 Corinthians 1:18-19; Romans 1:16.
2. Further, “But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness...For you see your calling brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called,” 1 Corinthians 1:23-26; 1 Peter 2:6-9. The gospel has had the most tremendous success among ordinary people.
3. Next, “Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; but have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.”
a. The gospel: “But if our gospel is hidden, it is hidden to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.”
b. We preach: “For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.”
c. God who commanded: “For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.”
d. This treasure: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the Excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us,” 2 Corinthians 4:1-7; Titus 2:1.
4. Finally, we must be Christ-centered preachers: “And, I, if I am lifted (up) from the earth, will draw all men unto me,” John 12:32. Observe,
a. The word lifted (up) in Gr., is hypsoo, which means to elevate: —exalt, lift (up). Focus on His word, not on your worthiness! He has prepared you for this work. Do it in sincerity and with humility; that we might be lifted (up)!
b. Christ was lifted up on the cross; we must lift him up in our: “Preaching of the cross,” John 3:14-16; Romans 5:8-11.
ILLUSTRATION: Isaac’s substitution was a ram in the thickets; Christ has become our substitute.
c. Lift Christ in the preaching of the cross so men can see and hear Him, not you, in the message!
d. Don’t focus on your eloquence as a preacher but on the content of the message of Christ because of this, some have departed from the faith, 2 Timothy 4:1-5; Romans 16:17-18; 2 Peter 2:1-3.
5. Conclusion: Let us not lose sight of our fundamental mission – and that is: “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself…be ye reconciled unto God,” 2 Corinthians 5:19-21.
D. Paul leaves Corinth after experiencing great success in his preaching. He won there to God: “Fruits among these Gentiles.” He is now on fire again for the Lord. He makes a short stop in Ephesus.
1. He would not stay long; he wanted to go to Jerusalem for Pentecost, Acts 18:19-21. He desired to visit the saints in Jerusalem and then Antioch.
2. The Jews at Ephesus wanted him to stay and help them. Unlike his visits to Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, and Corinth, these Jews were receptive to Paul’s preaching. He promised to return to them: “If God will(s).”
3. Departs Ephesus for Jerusalem. Luke records Paul’s brief return to Jerusalem and Antioch for Pentecost and to salute the brethren. Observe,
a. First, “When he landed in Caesarea, and had gone up, and saluted the church (in Jerusalem), he went down to Antioch,” Acts 18:22.
b. Further, while visiting Jerusalem, he reported to the brethren how God had opened: “A great door of faith” in Corinth by preaching the gospel of Christ unto the Gentiles.
c. Finally, “And after he has spent some time there (Antioch), he departed and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples,” Acts 18:23. During Paul’s visit to Jerusalem, a disciple came to Ephesus. His name was Apollos.
4. Apollos came to Ephesus. During Paul’s absence, a talented man came from Alexandria, Egypt, to Ephesus. He had to be converted before he could be sent, Acts 18:24-26. Luke speaks well of this young man. Notice:
a. Eloquent speaker, but his message was incomplete. There are many today like him.
b. He came to Ephesus not knowing Jesus but left a sound gospel preacher.
c. He had a fire in his preaching. After my first and second messages, my mentor admonished me to “Put some fire in my sermons, or put my sermons in the fire!” That’s why I am animated, excited, and preach with fire in my lessons.
Illustrate: Put some fire in that sermon; Jim H. Warren.
d. Priscila and Aquila heard him speak. They took him: “Aside and expounded unto him the way of the God more perfectly,” Acts 18:26.
e. The brothers sent him to Achaia with a letter. Who when he came:
1) One, “He helped them much that believed through grace.”
2) Two, “He mightily convinced the Jews and publicly showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ,” Acts 18:27-28.
3) Three, Apollos’ conversion to the gospel has sent another strong brother into the regions of Achaia, preaching the message of salvation. He would strengthen the Corinthians in the faith, building upon the foundation of Paul.
5. Conclusion: Paul begins his return trip into the regions of Ephesus. He would enter the city of Ephesus with a new spirit of faith and power in the Holy Ghost. When God has strengthened you – strengthen the brethren! I wish I had some help! Amen, brother Ceiling, sister Walls, and elder Doors.
E. Paul’s return to Ephesus. He will begin his work in building the church there and establishing the faith of Christ. It appears the apostle has regained his confidence. Observe while entering the coast of Ephesus,
1. He found certain disciples there, Acts 19:1-7. He questioned them regarding their faith, baptism, and the Holy Ghost. If believers have these, they should be able to speak of them. I wish I had some help! Consider,
NOTE: In denominational baptism, pastors teach that the “Saved are baptized after they have been forgiven of their sins” through the sinner’s prayer. Unlike gospel preaching (of the truth that makes one free), sinners are baptized "for (unto) the remission of their sins,” Acts 2:38; John 8:31-32; Romans 6:17-18.
a. Therefore, sinners obtain forgiveness in this act of obedience: “Through the washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Ghost,” Titus 3:5; Acts 22:16; Ephesians 5:26-27. Can I get a witness?
b. Remember the Corinthians had been: “Washed, sanctified, and justified; in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God,” 1 Corinthians 6:11.
c. This is the “pattern of conversion,” as outlined in the Book of Acts!
2. Paul preached the gospel in the synagogue at Ephesus, Acts 19:8.
3. He continued his work in the school of one Tyrannus: “By the space of two years; so that all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks,” Acts 19:10.
4. Paul’s preaching established the faith of Christ and the church in Ephesus.
a. Fruits among the Gentiles: “So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed,” Acts 19:8-20; Acts 19:1-7; Acts 20:20-21; Ephesians 1:11-14; Ephesians 2:1-10.
b. His work yielded many disciples. Many believers: “Came, and confessed, and showed their deeds,” Acts 19:18. Consider,
1) This implies that it is not only the burning of their books.
2) They were: “Obedient to the faith,” Ephesians 1:13-14.
c. When we rely on God – we have all the help we need!
d. Paul, the beloved apostle, was permitted to climb from perceived failure to profound success in his work among the Gentiles.
e. Conclusion: “Paul continued by the space of two years; so that all which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks,” Acts 19:10.
1) These episodes of seeming loss that sometimes come unto all of us merely serve to permit us to realize once again not just what we are doing but unto whom and why we are doing what we are doing!
2) When we are in a valley of despair, let us reflect on these things: “With God, all things are possible,” Matthew 19:26. As I move to a conclusion, let me review what we have considered in this lesson today.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Paul’s Troubled Entrance
2. Paul’s Trusted Exhortation
3. Paul’s Triumphant Exit
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we discussed Paul’s troubled entrance into Corinth. After leaving Athens, he traveled some 50 miles to the city of Corinth. While traveling to the city, his spirit was indeed down. He found no fruit in the city of Athens. After preaching so boldly on Mars’ Hill, only a handful of men and women followed him after mentioning the resurrection of Christ in his stirring address. He was pressed in his spirit and determined to go to Corinth after a perceived failure in his work in Athens. He was pressed in his spirit and determined to find more fruitful fields to work. After entering the city of Corinth, he became even more despondent. The apostle experienced a troubled entrance into the city.
2. Secondly, we noticed Paul’s trusted exhortation in Corinth. “Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy peace: For I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to hurt thee: for I have many people in this city,” Acts 18:9-10. This text points out that God is working in the life of his servants. This comforting message from the Lord enabled the apostle to begin his work in the city of Corinth confidently. We should remember that: “God calls things that are not; as if they are,” because He is in charge of all things, Romans 4:17. The apostle would experience great success due to his encouragement from the Lord after this night. Our Lord will provide the appeal needed for our success during our hour of doubt, despair, and discouragement.
3. Lastly, we emphasized Paul’s triumphant exit from the city of Corinth. Paul labored in the city of Corinth for one year and a half. The gospel of Jesus Christ and the life and conduct in the gospel were seen in sharp contrast to the sinful lives of those in this city, with its pagan immoralities. During this time, he would write two letters to the Thessalonians. He left the city after establishing the church at Corinth amidst great strife and hatred of the Jewish leaders. He would turn to the Gentiles and find success. Luke would write: “And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed in the Lord with his entire house; and many of the Corinthians who were hearing, believed in him and were baptized,” Acts 18:8.
C. Invitation. Present God’s pattern of conversion. Jesus said: “Come unto me all ye that labor,” Matthew 11:28-30. [Explain the POC, i.e., hearing and believing the gospel; repentance of all past sins, Luke 24:44-47; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God, Matthew 10:32-33; and then, by obeying the gospel, Romans 10:16-18; Romans 6:17-18; that is to: “repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:38; Acts 5:31-32; Ephesians 1:13-14].
D. Exhortation. “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
This lesson was updated by Ron Freeman, Evangelist, on 9/16/2024.
