Saturday 7 March 2026
As we work together with him, we urge you also not to accept the grace of God in vain. For he says, "At an acceptable time I have listened to you, and on a day of salvation I have helped you." (vs 1-2)
Background
Paul is mentoring fledgling Christians in Corinth, encouraging them to respond to the gospel of Christ. He seizes the moment, to wake them up to the tremendous truth that the day of salvation has arrived for them. It is unfolding this very day, and Paul’s team have suffered many things to bring it to their attention. They must not let it be in vain.
In verse 3, Paul’s team are putting no obstacles in the way of the Corinthians accepting salvation. He means that there is no requirement for the Gentiles to be circumcised or to follow Jewish dietary laws. There are no conditions to fulfil before you can find acceptance in the Christian faith.
To add urgency and power to this plea. in verse 4-5 Paul itemises the tribulations they have passed through to bring them this message.
In verses 6-10 Paul describes the spiritual attitudes they have brought to bear on these trials as servants of God: patience, kindness, holiness of spirit… and amazingly they are still alive and bearing witness.
Paul warns against sharing practices of non-believers (vs 14-16). There is a gulf between the intentional behaviours of believers and non-believers. Believers are the 'temple of the living God' and must leave behind old ways. There needs to be a decisive conversion.
Verses 16-18 are a Old Testament quote describing the privilege of the people of God. Paul uses 2 Samuel 7:12-14 to interpret the particular significance of Christ, as God’s own son, who has walked among them. Paul puts a big emphasis on the inclusivity of Christ’s kingdom: In this kingdom, God will be the father, not just of Christ, but of all believers: sons and daughters. The daughters are not in the text of Samuel. Their specific inclusion emphasises Paul’s point.
7:1 flags up what the Corinthians (and ourselves) should try to do.
To Ponder:
- How does the idea that if you don’t seize the moment, Christ’s sacrifice will have been in vain, make you pause and think?
- Leaning into our salvation is a daily discipline. On days when you are more resistant, do you tend to use the excuse of your self-sufficiency or that you are inadequate or not important enough? Share an example.
- Do you find it helpful to frame your sufferings and joys as participating in Christ’s suffering and risen life?
Prayer
Wonderful God, help us to wake up to how today in this moment we can participate with you in this day of salvation. Today we can serve your beautiful new world that is coming to birth. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Jenny Ellis
Jenny is a supernumerary Methodist minister. She facilitates a mindfulness community based at her local surgery and also online. She also leads quiet days and contemplative study days.