Tuesday, June 17 – Acts 19, 1 Corinthians 1

1. In what ways does your life reflect a Spirit-filled faith, and are there areas where you may be relying more on tradition than on the transforming power of the Holy Spirit? (Acts 19:1–7)

2. Are there any people, leaders, or preferences in your spiritual life that have taken precedence over Christ, potentially causing division rather than unity? (1 Cor. 1:10–13)

3. How does embracing the “foolishness” of the cross challenge you to live differently in a culture that values success, recognition, and self-promotion? (1 Cor. 1:18–31; Acts 19:18–20)

Acts 19 and 1 Corinthians 1 speak powerfully to today’s church and individual believers, offering guidance on spiritual depth, unity, cultural engagement, and humility. Though written nearly two thousand years ago, the truths found in these chapters remain relevant for navigating the challenges of modern faith.

In Acts 19:1–7, Paul encounters disciples in Ephesus who believed sincerely but lacked the Holy Spirit, having only received John’s baptism. After hearing the full gospel, they were baptized in Jesus’ name and received the Spirit. This highlights a vital truth: true Christian faith involves more than religious sincerity, church attendance, or moral effort; it requires a Spirit-filled, daily, and deeply personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Today, many possess knowledge without transformation. Authentic faith must move beyond tradition to a personal, empowering encounter with God that shapes daily living, prayer, worship, service, spiritual growth, decision-making, character, relationships, and boldness in witness.

Acts 19 shows how the gospel transformed Ephesus by confronting cultural norms and disrupting economic systems tied to idolatry. New believers publicly renounced their past, demonstrating that true Christianity is a visible, countercultural commitment today. Idols like materialism, self-image, and political allegiance still compete for our hearts, often shaping our priorities, decisions, and sense of identity more than our commitment to Christ. Genuine faith requires more than belief; it calls for sacrificial change, a deepening of spiritual maturity, ongoing obedience to God’s Word, and a lifestyle that visibly reflects the character and values of Christ in every area of life.

In 1 Corinthians 1, Paul confronts the issue of division in the church, where believers aligned themselves with leaders like Paul, Apollos, or Cephas instead of uniting under Christ. This factionalism remains relevant today, as many churches divide over leadership styles, worship preferences, and theology. Modern culture, amplified by social media and celebrity influence, often idolizes charismatic pastors, well-known ministries, popular worship styles, or denominational labels, distracting believers from a Christ-centered faith. Paul challenges this by asking, “Is Christ divided?” (v. 13), reminding the church that its unity must be rooted in Christ alone. While unity does not require uniformity, it is vital for the church’s health and effective witness. When Christ is central, divisions rooted in personality or preference lose their power, and the body of Christ thrives.
Paul contrasts worldly wisdom with God’s wisdom, declaring the message of the cross foolish to the perishing but powerful to those being saved (1 Corinthians 1:18). In a culture that values intellect, achievement, and prestige, faith in a crucified Savior may seem irrational. Yet this is precisely how God chooses to save. Today, believers may feel pressure to soften or modernize the gospel message to make it more appealing, relevant, accessible, and inclusive. Still, Paul reminds us that God uses what seems weak, insignificant, and overlooked to reveal His strength, purpose, and sovereign wisdom. True success in God’s kingdom is marked by humility, sacrifice, and servant-heartedness, virtues often overlooked or rejected by the world’s standards.

Paul concludes with a vital reminder: “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord” (v. 3). In a self-promoting culture, where success is often measured by visibility, influence, personal achievement, recognition, and social validation, Christians are called to resist the urge to elevate themselves and instead live in a way that consistently points back to God’s glory and divine purpose. Whether in ministry, work, or relationships, we must recognize that all we have is from Him. This humble posture honors God and guards against pride and division.

Acts 19 and 1 Corinthians 1 urge the modern church to move beyond surface-level religion toward Spirit-empowered, Christ-centered living. They call believers to reject cultural idols, pursue unity, embrace the cross, and walk in humility. These truths provide clarity and direction in a world marked by confusion and compromise.

May the Lord fill you with His Spirit, guide you in truth, and empower you to walk boldly in His grace. May your life reflect the humility of Christ, the wisdom of the cross, and the strength of His love. As you seek Him daily, may He bless you with clarity, unity, and peace, and lead you ever closer to His purpose and presence.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that true faith transforms every part of our lives. Help us live Spirit-filled, Christ-centered lives, free from anything that hinders our walk with You. Grant us boldness, humility, and obedience to reflect Your truth and love in all we do. Empower us to be faithful witnesses of the gospel. In Jesus’ name, Amen.