In his message, Stephen emphasizes the Apostle Paul's approach to the Corinthians, focusing solely on Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Paul recognized the Corinthians' eloquence and moral corruption, choosing not to engage in their debates but to preach the simplicity of the Gospel. Despite their initial acceptance of Christ, the Corinthians remained spiritually immature, failing to fully embrace Jesus as their Lord. This led to divisions among them, as they aligned themselves with different leaders, which Paul condemned as a violation of their calling into the fellowship of God's Son. Stephen highlights the importance of unity in the body of Christ, urging believers to maintain the Spirit's unity despite differences. He also addresses the Corinthians' moral failures, including tolerating sin and failing to practice righteousness. Paul’s teachings remind them that they are called to live in accordance with their identity in Christ, which includes a commitment to love and edify one another. Ultimately, Stephen calls for a deeper understanding of the cross, encouraging believers to allow Christ's life to manifest in them, thus overcoming carnality and living in accordance with God's truth.
13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. 14 Let all your things be done with charity.
1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. 4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
4 I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ; 5 That in every thing ye are enriched by him, in all utterance, and in all knowledge; 6 Even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you: 7 So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ: 8 Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.