When Paul left Athens, a bit discouraged I think, he traveled westward to the city of Corinth. (There is no Biblical record of his being miraculously directed that way, no “Macedonian Vision” here.)

Best I could tell, via maps and research, Corinth is just over 50 miles from Athens. “After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth.” Acts 18:1, with the Apostle apparently traveling alone. (Silas and Timothy were still preaching elsewhere.)

The city is situated on a fairly narrow isthmus connecting two oceans! The Ionian and the Aegean Seas, to be exact. This fact alone made Corinth a bustling city of commerce, with ships (and sailors) and merchants aplenty! Also with the accompanying sins and debauchery!

Think how impoverished we would be if our Bibles lacked both First and Second Corinthians! Virtual Manuals on proper Church behavior (1st Corinthians) and as good a look into the heart of Paul as exists anywhere (2nd Corinthians).

Yes, Paul went (walking likely) to Corinth from Athens! (Several days on foot on the road!)

Yet he transversed …

From a short stay (Athens) to a long ministry (Corinth)! “And Paul continued there a year and six months, teaching the word of God (not teaching philosophy) among them.” Acts 18:11

From a relatively fruitless ministry to a dramatically successful one! “Many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.” Acts 18:8

From laboring alone (seldom a good idea) to a host of companions in the work! (Silas and Timothy were soon coming … plus he there met Aquila and Priscilla!)

And from a city with no organized Church (Athens, even after Paul left) to a city with a vibrant, growing Church (in no time flat)!

What a wise move!

Yes, some Churches thrive, even in unlikely environments!

Such was Corinth.

By the way, I am writing this Lesson on Saturday Morning, February 1, 2020. That means tomorrow is the Lord’s Day. What about your Church? Do you plan to support its services with you attendance? Are you contributing to its welfare and strength … no matter its location?

The Bible is clear. We are to “not forsake” the assembling of ourselves together! Luke some do! And when we do meet, we are further urged to “exhort” (encourage) one another!

Why?

Because hard times well may be coming!

I have just given you the Essence of Hebrews 10:25. Here it is in the King James Version, word for word: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

May I hear a good, strong AMEN please?

— Dr. Mike Bagwell

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