When St. Paul was writing to the Corinthians, he expected the Lord Jesus to return very soon (easily within his own lifetime). This is why he mentions to the Corinthians that they’re not lacking any gift from God while they wait for Jesus to be revealed. And that bit — the waiting for Jesus part — is actually the end of a chain of three links.
Now if you’re like me, you’re completely on board with the first part of that but then when you hear that you’ve been enriched in all speech and knowledge, so that you’re not lacking any gift while you wait for the second coming, you might begin to feel a little skeptical.
Because it often feels like we could use more grace, more wisdom, more patience and love, even more favor from God (because things are not going well for us right now). In fact, you might even be annoyed or insulted at the suggestion that you don’t lack any gift while you wait for Jesus!
What this text means is that the grace, love, hope, patience, deliverance, goodness, and all the other things that you seek aren’t kept under lock and key, unavailable to you. In truth, it’s just the opposite. God has done incredible things — even giving up his own beloved Son to death on a cross! — to provide the means by which grace is delivered to you. And all that’s required of you is to simply receive that grace in faith.
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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.
Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org
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