1 Corinthians 4:19-20, The Kingdom of God Is Not in Word But In Power
1 Corinthians 4:19-20 But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the speech of them which are puffed up, but the power. 20 For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.
The Apostle Paul sought to expose the empty words of these gainsayers in Corinth that sought to divide the church by creating factions. The Apostle Paul has sent Timothy to restore the peace by bringing to remembrance his mentor’s teaching for church unity and harmony. He is urging the Corinthians to submit to his leadership. He sought the power of God to help mete out the needful discipline to bring order to the church and is confident of God’s help to have the victory.
2 Corinthians 10:4-6 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; 6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
He has not brought cunningly devised fables but the wisdom of God to prosper their ways. He brings them to remembrance the demonstration of God’s power in the founding of the church and the strengthening of it through the preaching and teaching of the Word with power for one and a half years whilst he dwelled with them. Now, he is endeavouring to make a trip to visit the church soon. There is no better way to communicate our affections as to do so personally. Within the framework of the ministry priorities, he sought to be able to reach them personally. This letter was the fastest way he could communicate his affections for their well-being.
May the Lord have His way. Amen.