Christ Through the Ages, 13: 1-2 Corinthians–Humility Amidst Suffering

For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.Lesson 13, 1-2  Corinthians: Christ's Humility Amidst Suffering (13 minutes), explores Jesus' humility and gentleness even in the midst of severe pain and suffering.Background:Paul penned 4 Corinthians letters (1 Corinthians 1:1, 5:9; 2 Corinthians 1:1, 7:8), c.53-55 AD.Clement of Rome wrote to the Corinthians c.95 AD, urging them to remain unified. The younger leaders had risen up against their elders -- redolent of the old troubles (1 Corinthians 1, 3...).In 2 Corinthians, Paul's authority is under attack. He does not defend his ministry with credentials or a resume. Rather, as he argues, the true mark of leadership is suffering.It may seem easy enough to be loving when life is easy and events are calm, but how about when we are under pressure? At such times, 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 takes on new meaning.Challenge questions:What am I like when I'm in physical or emotional pain? Do I still put others first?If I had been the one on the cross, how would I have related to the soldiers? the criminals? the religious leaders who put me there? my friends who had abandoned me?When I'm tired, hungry, etc., do I become rude, demanding, grouchy, or self-focused?What parts of the day ahead of me are likeliest to strain my goodwill -- to tempt me to forget humility? Thinking about Christ, may I be prepared for what comes.Next lesson: Ephesians & Colossians -- The Cosmic Christ.