As we look at the book of 1 Corinthians, I’m reminded again about the influence bivocational pastors can have. Paul worked as a tentmaker in Corinth alongside Priscilla and Aquila (Acts 18) as he helped plant the church there. He spent 18 months with them—his second longest amount of time in any one city.
While he was there, Paul shared the gospel, led people to faith in Jesus and then started a church with those new Christians. He discipled, equipped and raised up leaders from within the church to lead in his absence. Paul invested in the people and loved the church at Corinth. He knew the strategic influence she could have on the whole world.
The city was positioned on 2 major harbors and was a commercial and cultural epicenter. There were many worldly influences surrounding the church in Corinth. This is why Paul is constantly encouraging them to set aside worldly thinking and focus instead on the things of the Spirit. We’ll look at that this week at Family Church.
The Spirit is at work all around us. He is the one who opens people’s hearts to understand the gospel. He is the one who gives us the ability to understand how the things of God are so much better than the empty promises of this world. God has revealed to us the way to know Him and enjoy Him forever. He has also given us the job of telling others this good news.
It’s crucial that we understand our calling and the power the Spirit gives us to carry it out. South Florida is also a commercial and cultural crossroads. I believe we have as much influence on the world today as Corinth did in Paul’s day. Join us to learn how the Spirit glues us to God and empowers us to change our world!