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1 Corinthians 2:6-12
The Apostle Paul reiterates in 1 Corinthians 2:6 that he is giving instructions to those who are mature in their walk with Jesus, not that the mature need no further guidance, but just that, that those who are maturing in their walk with Jesus should continue growing and learning how to be a more mature example of Jesus to those who are beginning their walk with Jesus. He specifies that this wisdom is not from the earthly ways of man, but the “hidden” wisdom of God that only comes through God’s Holy Spirit which is not known by the worldly men. Paul states in 1 Corinthians 2:8b (NKJV), “for had they known, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.” He then quotes Isaiah 64:4 which has a special message,
“Eye has not seen, nor ear heard,
Nor have entered into the heart of man
The things which God has prepared for
those who love Him.”
“The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” This is setting apart a people for Himself, “for those who love Him.” This comes through the receiving of the Spirit of God into one’s heart when one believes/puts their faith in Jesus. Jesus Himself has promised this in John 14:15-18 (HCSB), “If you love Me, you will keep My commands. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Counselor to be with you forever. He is the Spirit of truth. The world is unable to receive Him because it doesn’t see Him or know Him. But you do know Him, because He remains with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I am coming to you.” This is a direct reflection of Isaiah 64:4 and a fulfillment of it in the lives of those who believe in Jesus.
This is a promise of the new life that one will have in Christ Jesus.
This is an example of how we receive the wisdom of God.
Being set apart from this world by God to be His children is not being “better” than others but set apart by believing in Jesus. It is only through this that we may receive God’s Holy Spirit into our lives – into our hearts. It is only then that we begin to truly grow in our relationship with Him as He reveals to us through His Holy Spirit the guidance and direction that we long for. How do we become set apart by God? By loving Him as our God and Creator; by believing in Him and opening our hearts to Him and following Him for the rest of our lives – every day – in Christ.
Dear LORD,
We have been seeking from an earthly view of what makes a Christian different. It is not being better than others but saying “yes” to receiving Your Holy Spirit in our lives through opening our hearts to the love You have given us and loving You in return. This is salvation in Christ Jesus. Please let it be so in all our lives – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.