Voice Of The Valley Volume 2 Issue 2 April 1996

Shall I Praise You In This? by Brian Price

The apostle Paul poses the above question in 1 Corinthians 11:22. Very often men are praised for that which should be condemned and others are condemned for that which should bring praise. How can that happen? The foundational problem is that to often praise and condemnation come from a variety of sources. We don't have to look far to see the reality of this problem. For example: One political party will have nothing but praise and adoration for their candidate, while speaking reproachfully of the opposing party's candidate. On the opposing side the same thing happens. The reason is a fundamental difference in the standard by which they are making their determinations. The same can be said in the respect to religious differences. One groups teachings, conduct, and activities bring the praise of some while also bringing condemnation from others. In Acts 23, the apostle Paul caused quite a stir over the question of the resurrection. The Sadducees did not believe in the resurrection while the Pharisees did. The contention between them over this issue was so severe that Paul was removed from the scene for his safety. The question remains then, which belief should be praised? They both can't be right. If we accept the notion that man is permitted to maintain his own system of beliefs then both groups are right and both groups are wrong. Sound confusing? Sure it does, but that is what happens when we have more than one standard. The only way to resolve this dilemma as well as all conflicting religious problems, is to acknowledge and accept one standard. Not mans, not mine, not yours, but God's. The TRUTH revealed in God's Word. Praise should only come when the teachings fit the pattern God has delivered. Condemnation should come when man falls short of or exceeds the TRUTH of God's Word. The specific problem in Corinth as seen in verses 19 - 22 is that the church in Corinth had determined to combine their spiritual worship unto God and a social gathering. Paul taught that when they came together to worship, specifically in reference to the Lord's Supper, that they were not to combine the social with the spiritual. He said, "do you not have houses to eat in? or despise ye the church of God." Even though the idea of combining the two met with great approval on the part of man, it is obvious that it did not meet with the approval of God. The religious world today continues to be contaminated by this blight that effected Corinth. What about the church where you attend? Do they engage in combining the social with the spiritual. You might say, "it must be good because everyone enjoys it and our leaders have been given high praise for their efforts." What did the apostle Paul say when man attempts to draw people to that which is spiritual through means that are carnal and when he attempts to use mixers, theatre troupes, pie socials, bingo, and any other social appeal? The words of the apostle Paul should ring loud and clear: "I praise you not." Let us not be deceived by those who contend that we must change the pattern of God to appease the masses. Christ said that he praises those who humble themselves in obedience to him. Not to those who seek to please men (Matthew 8:8-10).