“In every way you have been enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind—just as the testimony of Christ has been strengthened among you.” 1 Corinthians 1:5-6
Reflections
The Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians is one of the first bodies of writing we have in the New Testament, dated about 54 A.D. The gospels were not even put to writing until a few years later. Most at that time did not know how to read and were dependent upon a scribe or some other educated person to read something to them.
The New Testament was still in the process of coming into being. There was no printed Bible—only scrolls stored in special places. The printing press hadn’t even been invented. How then did they know about Jesus? It was all through oral transmission. When the Apostle Paul says that they had been “enriched in him, in speech and knowledge of every kind”, most all of it came by word of mouth. They knew the stories and teachings of Jesus that well!
How many Christians know the story and teachings of Jesus that well today? His teachings are a bottomless well of truth, wisdom, and insight for daily living. They never steer us wrong. We have it all in writing. With mobile phones, it is almost always with us. When we spend time with brothers and sisters in the faith, the word of Christ dwells in us and comes to life. All we need to do is take some time, read, and listen.
Prayer
Lord God, thank you for enriching me through your word. Strengthen me in your word that I might be a faithful witness to Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Full Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9