A More Excellent Way!

My topic this morning was going to be different, but the Holy Spirit told me to wait. After going to Bible Study. I understand why. As we shared different experiences this morning, I heard the Lord so clearly say, “a more excellent way.” This is such a timely word as we all in the body of Christ are seeking to please the Lord, and some of us feel it will be done if we do this… and others see things from an entirely different perspective…yet, there may be the same level of sincerity among the different groups.

Discussions that center around protocol are nothing new. They date back to the beginning of time, yet we see them play out as organized religion comes into play. Consider the Israelites, especially remember those with Korah – they thought that Moses was a man like unto themselves and they did not have to follow his dictates exclusively.

In the New Testament there was constant discussion over what should be done with the Gentiles, who didn’t have a clue concerning Jewish ceremonial laws and traditions. In one passage we see the Apostle Paul saying:

12All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. 1 Corinthians 6:12

We are free to do many things even within the confines of the law, but are the things we quibble about expedient? And if it be following the law, or deviating from the law – should we be brought under the power of either?

As we continue in 1 Corinthians we see another reference to this:

23All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. 1 Corinthians 10:23

The question goes further – not only are all things, even if lawful, not expedient, but all things do not edify. We are “called out” – and that calling may take different forms for different people – we have to know what we are “called out” from and what we are “called – INto!’

As we continue traveling in 1 Corinthians (I chose KJV today) – we see another reference to this sentiment, even though it is regarding something different:

30Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

31But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.1 Corinthians 12:30-31

When all is said and done- when all the arguments have been brought to the table, there IS A MORE EXCELLENT WAY!

The entire chapter of 1 Corinthians 13 shows us that way:

“Love suffers long, and is kind…”

Let’s not major on the minors – let’s major on the excellent way!

God Bless You,
Maria