1 Corinthians 10 “Learn From The Past”

Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.” (v.11)

First Corinthians 10 describes a spiritual disaster we can avoid. After the people of Israel were delivered from slavery in Egypt, they continued to turn away from the Lord. Recounting their recurring self-indulgence and its disastrous results, Paul wrote: “Now these things became our examples … And they were written for our admonition” (vv.6,11).

This story of reoccurring failure has been preserved in scripture so we can avoid the same disaster of disobedience. The same is true with all biblical lessons. They contain both examples and warnings to guard us against our worst inclinations and to lead us into wiser living. The question is, will we learn from the lessons of the past or repeat the mistakes of those who came before us? Scripture teaches us that, “A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.” (Proverbs 1:5) Two excellent, biblical examples to apply to our lives.

Paul goes on to admonish the Corinthian believers, “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (v.12). Don't think you're good because the water is clam now, Satan is always working, going to and fro seeking whom he may devour, stumble, or cause to fall. Yes, we do fall. But when we do, our goal must be to learn from our error and to avoid a second spill. When we walk in the Light, we won’t stumble in the darkness.

Therefore, read the Word daily, live carefully by its principals, be transformed by the renewing of your mind - and learn from the past!

The Truth: "For you were once in darkness, but now you are light in the LORD. Walk as children of the light." (Ephesians 5:8)