An "Edificational" Example

24/02/2019 13:18

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Date: 21 February, 2019
Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13
Title: An Edificational Example
 
Introduction:
 
Examples are great educational tools.
ill. As the children are studying maths - they will be taught a truth and then given an example problem - they use the example to make sure that they do their maths correctly.
exp. That is a good or positive example.
ill. When you get your Ikea product - flat packed - it will come with cartoon drawing of what do do (use a hand screw driver) and what not to do (Don't use a power tool). 
exp. What not to do are bad or negative examples.
And so there are....
Good and Bad examples
Positive and Negative examples
God uses examples in His Word to teach us.
Good examples....
ill. Paul.
1Co 11:1  Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.
Php 3:17  Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
ill. The prophets
Jas 5:10  Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.
ill. Timothy was told to be a good example.
1Ti 4:12  Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
Bad examples....
ill. Sodom and Gomorrha 2Pe 2:6  And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;
ill. Esau - Hebrews 12:15  Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
16  Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
 
note: Paul is the teacher in 1 Corinthians writing to his newly enrolled class in Corinth of young believers. He has a good and bad example for them today as he teaches them to live in victory.
 
In Chapter 9 he has ended by challenging them to keep their body under disipline to win the incorruptible crown.
24  Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.
25  And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.
26  I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:
27  But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
exp. Paul recognized the weakness in his flesh (body) and was disciplined because he realized that he could fail and be set aside. 
ill. "should be a castaway" - like a discarded broken vessel is placed on a shelf and is no longer useful to the master of the home.)
 
Paul is admonishing them to  BE VICTORIOUS OVER THEIR FLESH.
 
 He's going to give them NOT AN EDUCATIONAL EXAMPLE - but an EDIFICATIONAL EXAMPLE to help them in this spiritual discipline. 
note: Twice in our text - he emphasises this example in Israel - the OT people of God
 
6  Now these things were our examples
11  Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples
 
Paul is going to use both good and bad to build them up (edify) them.
 
Our flesh is no different from the new Corinthian believers. 
 
WE NEED TO LIVE IN VICTORY OVER OUR FLESH. Are you living in victory today? Paul's examples will help us live in victory as well.
 
1 Corinthians 10:1-13
 
I.  Good Example: Paul's Facts - Understand your position.
1  Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, 
exp. Paul didn't want Corinth to miss seeing the example of other children of God, like the nation of Israel under Moses. 
A. They were delivered by God and so are you.
1  Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
exp. Paul is a Jew and he is pointing them back to his heritage. The Jews were the OT people of God. God used the pillar of cloud to protect them and parted the sea to deliver them.
 ill. Exodus 14:13  And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.
14  The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.
15  And the LORD said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward:
16  But lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.
17  And I, behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them: and I will get me honour upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen.
18  And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I have gotten me honour upon Pharaoh, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen.
19  And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them:
20  And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night.
21  And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided.
22  And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.
23  And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.
24  And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the LORD looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians,
25  And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the LORD fighteth for them against the Egyptians.
26  And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen.
27  And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.
28  And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, and all the host of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much as one of them.
29  But the children of Israel walked upon dry land in the midst of the sea; and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.
30  Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore.
app. The Corinthians had been idolatrous gentiles. By the grace of a loving God - God had likewise delivered them - they had done nothing to effect their salvation - but God made a way through Jesus. 
B. They were identified as God's people and so are you.
2  And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
exp. They were set apart by God (dedicated to Him) as seen by His special blessing as they passed through the water. THEIR PASSING THROUGH THE WATER - IDENTIFIED THEM AS GOD'S PEOPLE.
 ill. Rahab - Jos 2:10  For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed.
 ill. Joshua - Jos 4:23  For the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over:
24  That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the LORD your God for ever.
note: Passing through the water was the privilige of God's special people. It identified them as His.
 app. If you are saved, don't miss out on being identified as a child of God. Baptism is commanded of those who accept God's gift of salvation. Act 2:38  Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
app. Paul's point is that this passing through the waters identified them as God's children even as our baptism identifies us as a child of God.
C. They were spiritually satisfied by God and so are you.
3  And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
4  And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
exp. Manna
 ill. Angel's Food Cake - Manna is the real angel's food cake.
 exp. Spiritual drink - the striking of the Rock in the wilderness and the stream which flowed out satisfying their great thirst.
 ill. Moses would remind Israel of their thirst satisfaction by God. Deu 8:15  Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint;
note: Paul is emphasizing the sacred nature (spiritual meat, spiritual drink) which satisfied their physical soul. It was prepared for them by God because they were his people.
ill. The spiritual satisfaction used to be for the Jews as the people of God.
Matthew 15:26  But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. 27  And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
note: But - Jesus came with the new food from Heaven - the bread of life FOR ALL PEOPLE.
John 6:30  They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?
31  Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.
32  Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.
33  For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
34  Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.
35  And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
question: Are you a child of God today? Have you taken of the bread of life? Have you drunk the water of life? 
transition: Paul's argument - Now that God has made you His people - like Israel were the people of God in the OT - THAT GOOD EXAMPLE - BECAME A BAD EXAMPLE. We will learn from this as well.
 
II. Bad Example: Israel's Failure - Withstand your desires.
5  But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
6  Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
exp. The Corinthians could be overconfident. They could say - We are born again. Of course we won't turn to lust back after the world. 
ill. Paul's bad example - MANY of the Jews DISPLEASED GOD - they let wicked desire (lust) turn them away from God EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE THE PEOPLE OF GOD.
 exp. Their flesh was weak! And so is our flesh.
Mar 14:38  Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
ill. King Saul as the leader of the Jews failed very quickly through satisfying his lust.
exp. newly appointed king - battling the Philistines - at Gilgal waiting for the prophet Samuel to come give a sacrifice. Paul's flesh can't wait any longer because of his unbelief and so he offers a sacrifice.
1 Samuel 13:12  Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.
exp. King Saul forced himself like a child prying open the lid to a cookie jar forces himself. He didn't make himself sin. He wanted to sin and he did what his flesh wanted to do. HE FOLLOWED HIS LUST - WICKED DESIRE.
James 1:14  But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
 app. Believers if we are going to please Jesus. We need to know what lusts can pull us away from God. 
note - Paul lists four wicked desires.
A. The wicked desire to replace God.
7  Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
ill. Israel is impatiently waiting for Moses as Moses is meeting with God. God has done incredible things for them. But, a little season of silence and they are quick to find make other gods.
Exo 32:1  And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.
Exo 32:24  And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf.
 exp. You may wonder why Aaron gave in to the desire of Israel - (Aaron and Hur) 
note: "In Talmudic tradition the sudden disappearane of Hur from the narrative of Exodus is explained by the claim that Hur was killed when he tried to prevent the making of the golden calf. The murder of Hur intimidated Aaron into complying with the popular demand to create the idol. Hur's faithfulness was rewarded by God by granting his grandson the role of making the Tabernacle."
exp. Israel turned quickly away and if Talmudic tradition is correct - murdered the man of God who tried to stop them.
 app. When God is silent - where do you turn to find satisfaction? Do you easily put down God's Word, stop praying, stop attending church.... What get's His place? Or do you guard your heart from idolatrous desires?
B. The wicked desire to gratify the flesh.
8  Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
exp. Balak couldn't get Balaam to curse God's people - God would not allow it. And yet Balaam counciled Balak to lead Israel into sin against God through fornication. THEN GOD WOULD NOT CURSE THEM - HE WOULD JUDGE THEM.
ill. the story - Numbers 25:1  And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab.
2  And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods.
3  And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.
4  And the LORD said unto Moses, Take all the heads of the people, and hang them up before the LORD against the sun, that the fierce anger of the LORD may be turned away from Israel.
5  And Moses said unto the judges of Israel, Slay ye every one his men that were joined unto Baalpeor.
6  And, behold, one of the children of Israel came and brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman in the sight of Moses, and in the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel, who were weeping before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
7  And when Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, saw it, he rose up from among the congregation, and took a javelin in his hand;
8  And he went after the man of Israel into the tent, and thrust both of them through, the man of Israel, and the woman through her belly. So the plague was stayed from the children of Israel.
9  And those that died in the plague were twenty and four thousand.
 exp. The commentators suggest that 23 thousand (killed by plague/judgement of God's servants like Eleazar.)
ill. Corinth was known for the whoredum of it's idol temples. One commentary said that in one temple there were 1,000 prostitutes.
note: Warning young Corinthian believers - ISRAEL's followed the wicked desire of gratifying the flesh. 
ill. Jesus rebuked the church in Pergamos for accomodating fornication - Rev. 2:14  But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
 ill. Paul has already dealt with this sin in the church in Corinth.
1Co 5:1  It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife.
ill. Jesus dealt with the root of this problem in the wicked desire of men's eyes and hearts.
Mat 5:28  But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
 exp. Jesus would not just have men not commit the act. He would have them on guard against the look and the thought.
 ill. God's righteous servant Job dealt with this wicked desire of his flesh.
Job 31:1  I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
 ill. The man after God's own heart, King David said in Psa 101:3  I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
app. Do you have a plan to guard your heart and your mind from fleshly gratification? Does you tele or your computer have greater controls on it than your unsaved neighbor? 
C. The wicked desire to complain.
9  Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.
exp. After idolatry and fornication - this wicked desire seems mild and yet it is as gross a sin against God. (It is the root sin behind fornication and idolatry.)
ill. Numbers 21:4  And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.
5  And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.
6  And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.
exp. They should have been praising and thanking God. Instead they were cursing Him.
 ill. Witnessing in Edinburgh, Man getting right in my face...."Why do the innocents die? Why would God make this...?"  They were using the breath their creator gave them and the energy from the food which He provided to blaspheme His name.
app. Careful believer. Our flesh is quick to complain against God. Don't give in to that wicked desire. Be quick to praise God.
D. The wicked desire to murmur and rebel.
10  Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
ill. Numbers 14:1  And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night.
2  And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!
3  And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?
4  And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.
exp. Murmer is onomatopoeia word. (mmmuurrrmmmerrr) They muttered under their breath because they lusted to rebel and they weren't going to abide any longer under their God given authority.
Ill. Watching cartoons with our kids at night. One humphrey the bear cartoon - humphrey lives on a nature preserve - The ranger says a certain bear is trespassing onto Donald Ducks honey bee farm. He takes them all over to the property line and paints a line for them all to see. He asks them if they understand and humphrey nods yes - while standing on the wrong side of the line.  
 app. We could look at this and say - WOW - Israel was really wicked! While ignoring the fact that we are standing on the other side of the line.
 Israel was flesh and blood just like you and me! Their bad examle is a warning to us that WE HAVE THE SAME FLESH.
 
If you are sensitive to the weakness of your flesh - you will be saying with Paul - Rom 7:24  O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
 
III. Application of good and bad Example: Paul's Lecture - Stand your ground.
11  Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
exp. This is Paul's application of this history lesson about the people of God.
A. You are as prone to failure as any other child of God.
12  Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
exp. Humility understands that - "Accept by the grace of God there I go."
Gal 6:1  Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
B. You can have VICTORY by humbly depending upon God.
13  There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: 
exp. temptation is part of our human experience. Even Jesus was tempted.
Heb 4:15  For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
 app. If you aren't tempted - you aren't human. And your temptation - is not original to you? There will be many other people struggling with the same lust as we just saw in our example Israel.
1. God is faithful in every tempation.
but God is faithful, 
exp. The difference between our flesh and the flesh of the unsaved - is we have help in God.
Act 26:22  Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:
 exp. Paul's flesh wanted to fail - BUT PAUL FOUND HELP IN GOD AND GOD WAS FAITHFUL.
App. Are you struggling to get victory over the flesh? Have you trusted in God? Has God failed you - or have you failed God? 1 Corinthians 1:8  Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
9  God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
2. God will not allow temptation greater than your ability to withstand.
who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; 
ill. When I have helped my kids learn to swim, I've had to help them let go of the wall and trust me to hold them up until they learn to hold themselves up. As a good father - I'm not going to let them try to swim where they are not able. 
 exp. God hasn't put you in the deep end of temptation.
quote: Barnes Notes Commentary - "if people fall into sin, under the power of temptation, they only are to blame. They have strength to resist all the temptations that assail them, and God has given the assurance that no temptation shall occur which they shall not be able, by His aid, to resist. In all instances, therefore, where people fall into sin; in all the yielding to passion, to allurement, and to vice, man is to blame, and must be responsible to God."
 app. Don't blame God for your failure when He has not allowed you to face something too great for you. Your excuse will not measure up to the truth of God's Word.
3. God providentially will provide a way of deliverance.
but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
ill. Looking forward to men's camp. We'll fly to Ireland. As we get on the plane and it taxis towards take off - the stewards and stewardess' will point our attention to the safety card - they point out the exits, emergencly lighting and safety devices. Many people pay no attention and in an emergency may not know what to do - IF SO THEY HAVE ONLY THEMSELVES TO BLAME - IT WAS CLEARLY POINTED OUT AND ILLUMINATED.
 app. God's escape routes are plain for those who want to see them.
1Co 6:18  Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
Jas 4:7  Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
Eph 4:28  Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
Psa 119:9  BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.
 
conclusion: Paul didn't want the Corinthians to be overconfident in their position in God. 
good example: Israel were also the people of God.
bad example: They failed
application: There is a way of victory available for the people of God.
1.) You are as prone to failure as any other child of God.
2.) You can have victory
a. Trust God - He is faithful.
b. Realize you are not tempted beyond ability.
c. Let God show you the way of victory.

Date: 21 February, 2019

Text: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Title: An Edificational Example

 

Introduction:

 

Examples are great educational tools.

ill. As the children are studying maths - they will be taught a truth and then given an example problem - they use the example to make sure that they do their maths correctly.

exp. That is a good or positive example.

ill. When you get your Ikea product - flat packed - it will come with cartoon drawing of what do do (use a hand screw driver) and what not to do (Don't use a power tool). 

exp. What not to do are bad or negative examples.

And so there are....

Good and Bad examples

Positive and Negative examples

God uses examples in His Word to teach us.

Good examples....

ill. Paul.

1Co 11:1  Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

Php 3:17  Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.

ill. The prophets

Jas 5:10  Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.

ill. Timothy was told to be a good example.

1Ti 4:12  Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Bad examples....

ill. Sodom and Gomorrha 2Pe 2:6  And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;

ill. Esau - Hebrews 12:15  Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;

16  Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

 

note: Paul is the teacher in 1 Corinthians writing to his newly enrolled class in Corinth of young believers. He has a good and bad example for them today as he teaches them to live in victory.

 

In Chapter 9 he has ended by challenging them to keep their body under disipline to win the incorruptible crown.

24  Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.

25  And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.

26  I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

27  But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

exp. Paul recognized the weakness in his flesh (body) and was disciplined because he realized that he could fail and be set aside. 

ill. "should be a castaway" - like a discarded broken vessel is placed on a shelf and is no longer useful to the master of the home.)

 

Paul is admonishing them to  BE VICTORIOUS OVER THEIR FLESH.

 

 He's going to give them NOT AN EDUCATIONAL EXAMPLE - but an EDIFICATIONAL EXAMPLE to help them in this spiritual discipline. 

note: Twice in our text - he emphasises this example in Israel - the OT people of God

 

6  Now these things were our examples

11  Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples

 

Paul is going to use both good and bad to build them up (edify) them.

 

Our flesh is no different from the new Corinthian believers. 

 

WE NEED TO LIVE IN VICTORY OVER OUR FLESH. Are you living in victory today? Paul's examples will help us live in victory as well.

 

1 Corinthians 10:1-13

 

I.  Good Example: Paul's Facts - Understand your position.

1  Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, 

exp. Paul didn't want Corinth to miss seeing the example of other children of God, like the nation of Israel under Moses. 

A. They were delivered by God and so are you.

1  Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

exp. Paul is a Jew and he is pointing them back to his heritage. The Jews were the OT people of God. God used the pillar of cloud to protect them and parted the sea to deliver them.

 ill. Exodus 14:13  And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, which he will shew to you to day: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more for ever.

14  The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.

15  And the LORD said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward:

16  But lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.

17  And I, behold, I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians, and they shall follow them: and I will get me honour upon Pharaoh, and upon all his host, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen.

18  And the Egyptians shall know that I am the LORD, when I have gotten me honour upon Pharaoh, upon his chariots, and upon his horsemen.

19  And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them:

20  And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night.

21  And Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided.

22  And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.

23  And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh's horses, his chariots, and his horsemen.

24  And it came to pass, that in the morning watch the LORD looked unto the host of the Egyptians through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians,

25  And took off their chariot wheels, that they drave them heavily: so that the Egyptians said, Let us flee from the face of Israel; for the LORD fighteth for them against the Egyptians.

26  And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen.

27  And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea.

28  And the waters returned, and covered the chariots, and the horsemen, and all the host of Pharaoh that came into the sea after them; there remained not so much as one of them.

29  But the children of Israel walked upon dry land in the midst of the sea; and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.

30  Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore.

app. The Corinthians had been idolatrous gentiles. By the grace of a loving God - God had likewise delivered them - they had done nothing to effect their salvation - but God made a way through Jesus. 

B. They were identified as God's people and so are you.

2  And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

exp. They were set apart by God (dedicated to Him) as seen by His special blessing as they passed through the water. THEIR PASSING THROUGH THE WATER - IDENTIFIED THEM AS GOD'S PEOPLE.

 ill. Rahab - Jos 2:10  For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed.

 ill. Joshua - Jos 4:23  For the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over:

24  That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the LORD your God for ever.

note: Passing through the water was the privilige of God's special people. It identified them as His.

 app. If you are saved, don't miss out on being identified as a child of God. Baptism is commanded of those who accept God's gift of salvation. Act 2:38  Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

app. Paul's point is that this passing through the waters identified them as God's children even as our baptism identifies us as a child of God.

C. They were spiritually satisfied by God and so are you.

3  And did all eat the same spiritual meat;

4  And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

exp. Manna

 ill. Angel's Food Cake - Manna is the real angel's food cake.

 exp. Spiritual drink - the striking of the Rock in the wilderness and the stream which flowed out satisfying their great thirst.

 ill. Moses would remind Israel of their thirst satisfaction by God. Deu 8:15  Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint;

note: Paul is emphasizing the sacred nature (spiritual meat, spiritual drink) which satisfied their physical soul. It was prepared for them by God because they were his people.

ill. The spiritual satisfaction used to be for the Jews as the people of God.

Matthew 15:26  But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it to dogs. 27  And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters' table.

note: But - Jesus came with the new food from Heaven - the bread of life FOR ALL PEOPLE.

John 6:30  They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?

31  Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.

32  Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.

33  For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.

34  Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.

35  And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

question: Are you a child of God today? Have you taken of the bread of life? Have you drunk the water of life? 

transition: Paul's argument - Now that God has made you His people - like Israel were the people of God in the OT - THAT GOOD EXAMPLE - BECAME A BAD EXAMPLE. We will learn from this as well.

 

II. Bad Example: Israel's Failure - Withstand your desires.

5  But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6  Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

exp. The Corinthians could be overconfident. They could say - We are born again. Of course we won't turn to lust back after the world. 

ill. Paul's bad example - MANY of the Jews DISPLEASED GOD - they let wicked desire (lust) turn them away from God EVEN THOUGH THEY WERE THE PEOPLE OF GOD.

 exp. Their flesh was weak! And so is our flesh.

Mar 14:38  Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.

ill. King Saul as the leader of the Jews failed very quickly through satisfying his lust.

exp. newly appointed king - battling the Philistines - at Gilgal waiting for the prophet Samuel to come give a sacrifice. Paul's flesh can't wait any longer because of his unbelief and so he offers a sacrifice.

1 Samuel 13:12  Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.

exp. King Saul forced himself like a child prying open the lid to a cookie jar forces himself. He didn't make himself sin. He wanted to sin and he did what his flesh wanted to do. HE FOLLOWED HIS LUST - WICKED DESIRE.

James 1:14  But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.

 app. Believers if we are going to please Jesus. We need to know what lusts can pull us away from God. 

note - Paul lists four wicked desires.

A. The wicked desire to replace God.

7  Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

ill. Israel is impatiently waiting for Moses as Moses is meeting with God. God has done incredible things for them. But, a little season of silence and they are quick to find make other gods.

Exo 32:1  And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.

Exo 32:24  And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf.

 exp. You may wonder why Aaron gave in to the desire of Israel - (Aaron and Hur) 

note: "In Talmudic tradition the sudden disappearane of Hur from the narrative of Exodus is explained by the claim that Hur was killed when he tried to prevent the making of the golden calf. The murder of Hur intimidated Aaron into complying with the popular demand to create the idol. Hur's faithfulness was rewarded by God by granting his grandson the role of making the Tabernacle."

exp. Israel turned quickly away and if Talmudic tradition is correct - murdered the man of God who tried to stop them.

 app. When God is silent - where do you turn to find satisfaction? Do you easily put down God's Word, stop praying, stop attending church.... What get's His place? Or do you guard your heart from idolatrous desires?

B. The wicked desire to gratify the flesh.

8  Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

exp. Balak couldn't get Balaam to curse God's people - God would not allow it. And yet Balaam counciled Balak to lead Israel into sin against God through fornication. THEN GOD WOULD NOT CURSE THEM - HE WOULD JUDGE THEM.

ill. the story - Numbers 25:1  And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab.

2  And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods.

3  And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.

4  And the LORD said unto Moses, Take all the heads of the people, and hang them up before the LORD against the sun, that the fierce anger of the LORD may be turned away from Israel.

5  And Moses said unto the judges of Israel, Slay ye every one his men that were joined unto Baalpeor.

6  And, behold, one of the children of Israel came and brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman in the sight of Moses, and in the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel, who were weeping before the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.

7  And when Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, saw it, he rose up from among the congregation, and took a javelin in his hand;

8  And he went after the man of Israel into the tent, and thrust both of them through, the man of Israel, and the woman through her belly. So the plague was stayed from the children of Israel.

9  And those that died in the plague were twenty and four thousand.

 exp. The commentators suggest that 23 thousand (killed by plague/judgement of God's servants like Eleazar.)

ill. Corinth was known for the whoredum of it's idol temples. One commentary said that in one temple there were 1,000 prostitutes.

note: Warning young Corinthian believers - ISRAEL's followed the wicked desire of gratifying the flesh. 

ill. Jesus rebuked the church in Pergamos for accomodating fornication - Rev. 2:14  But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

 ill. Paul has already dealt with this sin in the church in Corinth.

1Co 5:1  It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife.

ill. Jesus dealt with the root of this problem in the wicked desire of men's eyes and hearts.

Mat 5:28  But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.

 exp. Jesus would not just have men not commit the act. He would have them on guard against the look and the thought.

 ill. God's righteous servant Job dealt with this wicked desire of his flesh.

Job 31:1  I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?

 ill. The man after God's own heart, King David said in Psa 101:3  I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.

app. Do you have a plan to guard your heart and your mind from fleshly gratification? Does you tele or your computer have greater controls on it than your unsaved neighbor? 

C. The wicked desire to complain.

9  Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.

exp. After idolatry and fornication - this wicked desire seems mild and yet it is as gross a sin against God. (It is the root sin behind fornication and idolatry.)

ill. Numbers 21:4  And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.

5  And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.

6  And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died.

exp. They should have been praising and thanking God. Instead they were cursing Him.

 ill. Witnessing in Edinburgh, Man getting right in my face...."Why do the innocents die? Why would God make this...?"  They were using the breath their creator gave them and the energy from the food which He provided to blaspheme His name.

app. Careful believer. Our flesh is quick to complain against God. Don't give in to that wicked desire. Be quick to praise God.

D. The wicked desire to murmur and rebel.

10  Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.

ill. Numbers 14:1  And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night.

2  And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!

3  And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?

4  And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.

exp. Murmer is onomatopoeia word. (mmmuurrrmmmerrr) They muttered under their breath because they lusted to rebel and they weren't going to abide any longer under their God given authority.

Ill. Watching cartoons with our kids at night. One humphrey the bear cartoon - humphrey lives on a nature preserve - The ranger says a certain bear is trespassing onto Donald Ducks honey bee farm. He takes them all over to the property line and paints a line for them all to see. He asks them if they understand and humphrey nods yes - while standing on the wrong side of the line.  

 app. We could look at this and say - WOW - Israel was really wicked! While ignoring the fact that we are standing on the other side of the line.

 Israel was flesh and blood just like you and me! Their bad examle is a warning to us that WE HAVE THE SAME FLESH.

 

If you are sensitive to the weakness of your flesh - you will be saying with Paul - Rom 7:24  O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

 

III. Application of good and bad Example: Paul's Lecture - Stand your ground.

11  Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.

exp. This is Paul's application of this history lesson about the people of God.

A. You are as prone to failure as any other child of God.

12  Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

exp. Humility understands that - "Accept by the grace of God there I go."

Gal 6:1  Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

B. You can have VICTORY by humbly depending upon God.

13  There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: 

exp. temptation is part of our human experience. Even Jesus was tempted.

Heb 4:15  For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

 app. If you aren't tempted - you aren't human. And your temptation - is not original to you? There will be many other people struggling with the same lust as we just saw in our example Israel.

1. God is faithful in every tempation.

but God is faithful, 

exp. The difference between our flesh and the flesh of the unsaved - is we have help in God.

Act 26:22  Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:

 exp. Paul's flesh wanted to fail - BUT PAUL FOUND HELP IN GOD AND GOD WAS FAITHFUL.

App. Are you struggling to get victory over the flesh? Have you trusted in God? Has God failed you - or have you failed God? 1 Corinthians 1:8  Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

9  God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

2. God will not allow temptation greater than your ability to withstand.

who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; 

ill. When I have helped my kids learn to swim, I've had to help them let go of the wall and trust me to hold them up until they learn to hold themselves up. As a good father - I'm not going to let them try to swim where they are not able. 

 exp. God hasn't put you in the deep end of temptation.

quote: Barnes Notes Commentary - "if people fall into sin, under the power of temptation, they only are to blame. They have strength to resist all the temptations that assail them, and God has given the assurance that no temptation shall occur which they shall not be able, by His aid, to resist. In all instances, therefore, where people fall into sin; in all the yielding to passion, to allurement, and to vice, man is to blame, and must be responsible to God."

 app. Don't blame God for your failure when He has not allowed you to face something too great for you. Your excuse will not measure up to the truth of God's Word.

3. God providentially will provide a way of deliverance.

but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

ill. Looking forward to men's camp. We'll fly to Ireland. As we get on the plane and it taxis towards take off - the stewards and stewardess' will point our attention to the safety card - they point out the exits, emergencly lighting and safety devices. Many people pay no attention and in an emergency may not know what to do - IF SO THEY HAVE ONLY THEMSELVES TO BLAME - IT WAS CLEARLY POINTED OUT AND ILLUMINATED.

 app. God's escape routes are plain for those who want to see them.

1Co 6:18  Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.

Jas 4:7  Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

Eph 4:28  Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Psa 119:9  BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

 

conclusion: Paul didn't want the Corinthians to be overconfident in their position in God. 

good example: Israel were also the people of God.

bad example: They failed

application: There is a way of victory available for the people of God.

1.) You are as prone to failure as any other child of God.

2.) You can have victory

a. Trust God - He is faithful.

b. Realize you are not tempted beyond ability.

c. Let God show you the way of victory.

 

27  But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

27  But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
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