In the first chapter of Corinthians, you’ll find these two verses, tucked in there, seemingly as a random stream of consciousness, part of Paul’s closing in his first letter to the church in Corinth:
Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
This has always struck me as odd: Why did God have Paul just stick in these two verses at this point of his letter to the Corinthians? What were the Corinthians doing – or not doing – that warranted him saying this to them?
On one hand, it seems randomly inserted betwixt a concern for Apollos and Stephanas. But on the other hand, it does make sense, given that this section of the letter is titled, in some versions of the Bible, the “final instructions.”
Paul’s word choice in his “instructions” seems more fitting of an officer directing a soldier:
“The terms in this verse are all military… be continually on your guard… keep in your ranks… when you are attacked, do not flinch… summon up all your courage, sustain each other; fear not, for fear will enervate you.”
Adam Clarke (1760-1832) was an Irish Methodist theologian and biblical scholar
However, we should not underestimate the part they play in living the Christian life. In this 5-part Wisdom In All Things Special Series, we’ll unpack the implications of these two short verses from Paul, as they highlight 5 essential factors for living a life of purpose, wisdom, and impact.
EXPOSE | Act like men
“Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.” – 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (emphasis mine)
EXPLORE | Be courageous and mature
Given the current cultural climate on the subject, some might think it pretty controversial to suggest that we ‘act like men’. After all, if you were to listen to the critics, “Could there be anything good that would come from it?”
I can understand the sentiment. But not the reaction.
I think it was John Stonestreet who I heard say recently, “The response to bad authority is not, ‘no authority’, it’s good authority.” The context had to do with governmental authority, but it seems like it would apply nicely here as well.
While we may have steered away from the path of guiding boys into becoming men, it is all the more important that we return to the path rather than abandon the pursuit of manhood altogether. To put it another way, we should seek ‘true manhood’ rather than ‘no manhood.’
I am certain the world would not have a problem with brave, spiritually mature men:
“Rather than acting like immature children, the Corinthian believers should behave like mature men (cf. 1:12). This exhortation is a call to both bravery and maturity. They should be strong in the Lord rather than weak in the faith (cf. Josh. 1:7-8).”
Dr. Thomas Campbell
I want to make it clear that this verse is all-inclusive. We all, as followers of Christ, are to be “strong in the Lord rather than weak in the faith.”
The KJV renders our featured phrase as “Quit you like men”. Interestingly, inserting a couple of words helps complete the intention: Quit [being] you, [instead, act] like men. The NJKV version translates our phrase as: “Be brave.” Men should be known for their bravery.
“This is the only place in the New Testament where the word translated be brave is used (andrizomai). Literally, it means, “to act like a man.””
David Guzik
Paul encourages believers in Corinth to be courageous, mature, and steadfast in their faith. They should be “manly and firm in all their contests with their enemies”, defending their faith, maintaining their integrity – and not be shaken from the gospel.
“Quit like men... Like men of wisdom and understanding; be not like children for non-proficiency, instability, and weakness; believe not every spirit; be not carried and tossed about with every wind of doctrine; search the Scriptures, and try every doctrine by them;”
John Gill
There are 5 ways or areas for us to demonstrate spiritual maturity and strength:
- Courage and bravery in the face of adversity: This means standing up for the faith even when it’s difficult, and facing challenges with resilience and determination.
- Taking responsibility and leadership: This involves taking initiative, being accountable for our actions, and guiding others by example. We need to embrace spiritual leadership and responsibility in shepherding the church.
- Spiritual maturity and wisdom: This refers to a deep understanding of God’s Word and the ability to apply it in life with discernment and compassion.
- Self-control and discipline: This means exercising self-control in thoughts, words, and actions, and living a disciplined life according to Scriptural principles.
- Protection and provision for others: This encompasses caring for the well-being of others, both physically and spiritually, and offering help and support to those in need.
And as Paul makes a point of summing up, these qualities should always be exercised in love. True Christian strength and maturity are not about dominance or aggression, but about love, compassion, and service to others.
Standing Strong in the Face of Adversity
Being courageous isn’t just about facing physical dangers with a bold heart (although, that’s part of it). It’s about a profound, inner strength that comes from trusting in God and His power. Think David facing Goliath, armed with nothing but a sling.
But as I’m sure you’ve heard, courage is not the absence of fear, it’s the decision to act despite it. Even the heroes of the Bible had their knees knocking at times, yet their faith (read: trust in God) propelled them forward.
Look at Joshua stepping into leadership after Moses. Can you imagine the weight on his shoulders? God’s encouragement to him echoes through the ages: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” That’s the backbone of our courage right there.
Here are other passages highlighting courage:
- Isaiah 41:10 (NIV):
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Can you feel the assurance in those words? It’s like a divine pep talk, reminding us that courage isn’t a solo act – we stand with the Almighty. - Deuteronomy 31:6 (NIV):
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” God makes it clear of what we should and should not do, and why: be strong and courageous, don’t be afraid or terrified, for I go with you. - Psalm 23:4 (NIV):
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.” David, the poetic powerhouse, paints a vivid picture of courage in the face of shadows. It’s not the absence of darkness but the presence of a comforting, faithful shepherd. - 2 Timothy 1:7 (NIV):
“For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love, and self-discipline.” God’s Spirit within us is a courage-infusing powerhouse. - Romans 8:31 (NIV):
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?” There’s our battle cry.
Importance of standing up for our faith in challenging times
In secular settings, our faith will at least get a few curious glances, if not outright and direct opposition. Then add to that, setbacks and circumstances that seem insurmountable. However, those glances and setbacks should be viewed as opportunities. History is strewn with examples of people demonstrating remarkable dependence on God in the face of earthly obstacles to cast a light for others navigating their valleys. Here are just a few:
Corrie ten Boom:
This remarkable woman faced unimaginable adversity during the Holocaust. Despite enduring cruelty in a concentration camp, she emerged with a spirit unbroken. Her resilience was rooted in her unwavering faith, leading her to forgive even those who had caused her immense pain.
Nick Vujicic:
Born without limbs, Nick faced physical and emotional challenges that could break anyone. Yet, he embraced his circumstances with a spirit of resilience fueled by his faith. Today, he inspires millions with his message of faith, hope, and determination.
Job from the Bible:
Job endured profound suffering – loss of family, health, and possessions. Yet, his resilience was grounded in his unshakable faith. In the end, his story is one of restoration, showcasing the redemptive power of enduring trust in God.
EXECUTE | Cultivating spiritual courage
Here is some poetry for you: If faith is a garden, resilience is the sunlight and rain that nurtures the seeds of spiritual growth. Through challenges, we develop a profound trust in God, deepen our understanding of grace, and cultivate virtues like patience, perseverance, and gratitude.
How is this garden cultivated? How do we develop resilience and courage in the form of spiritual maturity and strength?
Of course, Christ is the example. As a basis, we want to balance courage with love. Christ exemplified a courageous love that was more than just bold actions – it was that they were done with a heart full of compassion. By intertwining courage with Christ-like love, we ensure that convictions are expressed not as weapons but as invitations to truth and grace.
With “courageous love” as the foundation, here are four crucial pieces that make up the next layer:
Importance of Integrity – Courage of Convictions:
Integrity is the backbone of a life lived authentically. In a world that often pushes against deeply held beliefs, it’s about maintaining the courage of your convictions, even when faced with adversity. When integrity aligns with the courage of convictions, it transforms actions into a powerful testimony, showcasing a life grounded in principles that transcend the shifting sands of our culture.
Prayer for Boldness to Witness:
The act of witnessing is not just a verbal proclamation; it’s a living testament to one’s faith. To boldly witness is to carry the torch of truth into the world, of which prayer becomes the foundation for this boldness. It’s a plea for the strength to articulate convictions with grace.
Trusting God’s Sovereignty and Purpose:
When we lean into God’s sovereignty, there’s a profound reassurance that every twist and turn in life is part of a grander purpose. Trusting God is not passive acceptance but an active surrender, a choice to believe that every chapter – joyful or challenging – contributes to His purpose that unfolds in His perfect timing.
Confidence in Eternal Victory:
Confidence in eternal victory is the unwavering assurance that, regardless of the battles faced in the present, the ultimate victory belongs to God. This confidence is not rooted in arrogance but in the profound truth that the struggles and sacrifices endured on our earthly journey are but a prelude to a triumphant, eternal culmination.
Two warnings as we express or demonstrate spiritual maturity:
Avoid pride when standing up for your faith
Standing up for faith with courage and compassion requires a delicate dance to avoid the pitfalls of pride and arrogance. It’s easy for the flame of conviction to morph into the wildfire of self-righteousness. Humility becomes the antidote. Acknowledging the potential for fallibility, embracing the diversity of perspectives, and approaching discussions with an open heart prevent the erosion of compassion.
Speak the truth gently and respectfully
The art of speaking the truth gently and respectfully is a rare and invaluable skill. Christ spoke with authority but also with a gentleness that invited reflection. It’s about choosing words that illuminate rather than alienate, recognizing the weight of the truth and handling it with care. This approach doesn’t dilute the message but rather adorns it with a grace that respects a person’s dignity. We also have to acknowledge that the goal is not to win debates but to foster understanding.
Being brave, especially in challenging times, isn’t just a defensive move; it’s a strategic, powerful stance we take not only as a means of spiritual maturity but creates a ripple effect exhorting people near and far to answer the call to “be strong in the Lord rather than weak in the faith.”
In Part 4 of this special series, we’ll focus on the next set of words: “be strong.”
Additional versions of 1 Corinthians 16:13-14:
“Keep your eyes open, hold tight to your convictions, give it all you’ve got, be resolute, and love without stopping.” (The Message)
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Do everything in love.” (NIV)
“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity.” (KJV)
Photo by Savannah W. on Unsplash