THE MEANING OF CHRISTIAN MANHOOD (V. 13)
The literary structure of vv. 13,14: watchful, stand [ACT LIKE MEN] strong, charity. The theme of these 1st two verses is the imperative to Act like men: “andrizomai” from “andros.” (Joshua 1:1-9)
• Be watchful/vigilant: Watchfulness against various spiritual dangers and enemies, along with watchfulness for the coming of Christ, is what is in view here.
• Stand firm in the faith
• Be strong: mighty, gain mastery of something. Strength of mind, strength of conviction, strength of leadership in family.
THE CHIEF MARK OF CHRISTIAN MANHOOD (V. 14)
The Corinthian church had many problems. Everyone wanted the showy gifts and they were jealous of one another. There was rampant feminism, immaturity, & lack of male leadership. The problems in Corinth were the same as the problems in the church today.
Agape (charity): Christian love, sacrificial love, gentle love. Males are to act like men and carry out their duties in love. This is the overarching principle for the other commands.
THE COMPANIONS OF CHRISTIAN MANHOOD (VV. 15-18)
Males have a tendency to congregate, but so do real men. Mere males tend to have shallow connections; they tend to congregate together on the basis of their hobbies or their common sinful desires. They gather for fun, for self-gratification. But real men are united in their duty & their service to Christ.
THE SUPREME EXAMPLE OF MANHOOD (VV. 13-18)
In His service to the Father, Christ was the supreme example of manliness. Christ was always vigilant, He was always strong, and everything He did was done with charity – in short – He always acted like a man. |
