Day Eighty-Two -- If anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation

1 Corinthians 15:1 to 16:24, 2 Corinthians, and Galatians 1:1 to 3:25

It has been an enlightening experience to read 1st and 2nd Corinthians back-to-back.  Paul's letters to this Christian community is like listening in on a conversation about what is happening in all of their lives.  Paul makes references to mutual acquaintances, talks of his future plans, responds to the Corinthians hurt feelings, continues to provide guidance on faith and daily living, and defends himself against criticisms of his ministry.  There was obviously a lot of communication going on, and it makes me wonder what else either Paul or the Corinthians corresponded about.  One thing for sure is that they were all striving to live in a new way, to understand what Jesus meant to them and how their lives were to be re-ordered around this understanding.  Paul, characteristically, states that what is happening is even far more radical; what is occurring is nothing short of the re-creation of the lives of believers.

Perhaps this is why Paul exhibits such frustration with believers who seem to be straying away from the gospel.  In writing to the Galatians he expresses his dismay that they seem to be willing to accept teachings that contradict what he has already taught them, and even calls them "foolish" for their willingness to choose observance to the law over faith in Christ Jesus.  He so desperately wants them to know that they have been given a new freedom and relationship with one another and creation that he's willing throw a few insults at them to shake them up.  Hmmm -- maybe that's why Paul moved around as often as he did, but we sure can't argue with his results.