1 Corinthians 12:2

A RETROSPECT

‘Ye were Gentiles.’

1 Corinthians 12:2

This was language which could only be applied to a section of the early Christians. The change which those had undergone, who had been brought out of the mire of heathenism that their feet might be set upon the solid rock of Christianity, was a change of a most marvellous and striking character. It sometimes served the purpose of the Apostle’s argument to recall to the memory of some among his converts and correspondents the condition in which Christ had found them, and from which He has rescued them.

A retrospect of this kind is fitted to yield certain manifest advantages.

I. It tends to foster true repentance and humiliation.—When St. Paul described the vices and crimes of heathenism in all their hideousness, he would add, turning, as it were, to his converts, ‘Such were some of you.’ A reflection fitted to repress pride and to call forth sentiments of contrition and abasement.

II. Is fitted to reawaken sincere gratitude.—To whose compassion and interposition was it owing that they had been delivered from such bondage, darkness, death? Divine grace must receive all the praise and thanks. If ye who were Gentiles—idolaters—are now Christians, how shall you sufficiently adore the favour and condescension of the source of all mercy that such a change has passed upon you?

III. Is adapted to quicken resolutions to progress in faith and holiness.—If these Corinthian Christians had been called from idolatry to the fellowship and service of the Saviour, how could they so effectively prove the reality of the transition, and fulfil the obligation into which they had entered, as by living to the praise of Him Who had called them out of darkness into light? This is a motive which, in a measure, all Christians should feel, which should have influence over all hearts and lives.

Illustration

‘The evil of my former state

Was mine, and only mine;

The good in which I now rejoice

Is Thine, and only Thine.

The darkness of my former night,

The bondage—all was mine;

The light of life in which I walk,

The liberty—is Thine.’