"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong."
In 1 Corinthians 16, the apostle Paul ends his letter with several instructions and reminders for the brethren at Corinth. From the previous chapter, God’s children are reminded that the resurrection of the Lord Jesus is true and real. Faith in the atoning death and resurrection of the Messiah is essential, for it is the gospel which we believed unto salvation. And as verse 13 says, we must stand firm in the faith. We must also be alert, ever cautious, and discerning against false teachings that the enemy uses to lead us astray.
Why was it necessary for Paul to urge Christians to be courageous? Because in every generation, the faith (and those who hold on to Gospel truths) will face opposition from every side. This world is at enmity with God and with us, His children. The Christian who desires to live according to God’s Word and will never be a friend of the world. And thus, persecution and hardships are to be expected. Hence, we must be on our guard, stand firm in the faith, take courage, and stand strong in the strength of the Lord.
