"The testimony of Christ was confirmed in you."
Text: 1 Corinthians 1:6
THE TESTIMONY OF CHRIST
The disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ were commanded to bear witness concerning their faith in Him (Acts 1:8). They were diligent and faithful in the task committed to them. As a result, thousands came to faith in the Lord.
The same commandment to bear witness for the Lord Jesus Christ was given to the Apostle Paul (Acts 26:16). He too bore faithful witness for the Lord. The Corinthian Church was founded by Paul and his fellow-workers.
“Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you.”
1 Corinthians 1:6
1. “Even as”
a) Literally “just as”.
b) This was an observation Paul made as he looked at the Corinthian Church.
i) It had a very humble beginning.
ii) There were many trying moments for the first converts.
iii) Some were physically hurt by the enemies of the faith.
c) But the Church had withstood the challenges.
d) The Church was blessed in many ways.
2. “The testimony of Christ”
a) Paul and his fellow-workers bore testimony of their faith in Him.
b) This was a definite commitment on their part.
c) They would not resort to doubtful worldly means to build the church.
d) They would simply obey the Lord and bear witness of their belief in a Risen Saviour.
3. “Was confirmed in you”
a) The word “confirmed” has an interesting background
i) It was used to describe something being “established”.
ii) In papyrus documents this word was used to describe something that was legally secure.
b) This word was carefully used to describe the Corinthian Church.
i) The Church was established.
ii) The reality of the faith of the believers in the Corinthian church was proven to be true.
iii) There were confirming signs such as the gifts of the Lord being found in their midst.
iv) The Church at Corinth was a true assembly of believers.
v) There was every reason for Paul to give thanks for the Corinthian Church.