1 Corinthians 9:22

“To the weak became i as weak, that i might gain the weak: I have become all things to all men, that i might by all means save some.”

Paul writes this letter to the Church of Corinth and he makes a couple things clear when being a follower of Christ. 1) suffer as others suffer 2) become one with your brother 3) let the main mission be salvation for all men. If the message is anything other then this, is it the Gospel?

So how then do we suffer as others suffer? Knowing that the mission requires sacrifice  and carrying other people's crosses, we are reminded in Romans 8:16-17 “The Spirit HImself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs- heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together.” We begin to suffer with others the moment we realize what was sacrificed for us at the cross. Sufferings now, are a light affliction compared to the eternal weight of glory.

In Genesis Chapter 2 verse 21 we read “ And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall on Adam, and he slept; and He took ONE of his ribs, and closed up the flesh in its place.” The same way we see God take ONE of Adam's ribs to put in place to create Eve, is the same way He wants us to do for our brother. In Genesis we see a much more intimate relationship with creator and creation, needless to say God created us for intimacy as well. It's about giving your brother what you do have, to have the Lord create something miraculous out of it.

Salvation is the message. 2 Samuel 22:47 says “The Lord lives! Blessed be my Rock. Let God be exalted. The Rock of my salvation.” Like a rock, God is strong, steadfast, and a place of refuge, but without God being my salvation, then i have another good ol’ hiding place.

He is our foundation, our message, and salvation.

APPLICATION:

I will find a rock outside and write the lord is my Rock and Salvation!