Commentaries: 1 Clement – Chapter 1-2

The first chapter primarily deals with Clement informing the Corinthians of the sufferings of the Roman Church. This is followed by his statements introducing the issue at hand, the sedition and deposition of godly elders by self-willed men. Clement praises the Corinthian Church for their piety and faithfulness in the past so that they would recognize what was at stake if they didn't repent.

Commentaries: 1 Clement – Salutation

The Church of God that sojourns in Rome to the Church of God that sojourns in Corinth,

Clement of Rome introduces us to this epistle by referring to the churches in Rome and Corinth as sojourners. This is reminiscent of how Peter the Apostle refers to the Church in 1 Peter 2:11. It is important to understand this term to understand how the Early Church understood their place in the realm of Providence as the special people of God. The word sojourner in the original languages is intended to elicit the position of a foreigner. But its not only restricted to that category, for a foreigner could intend to seek long-term or even permanent residence in a land. A sojourner on the other hand literally means a foreigner who is "passing through" but maintains relationships with the locals of that region. The relationship however, is one based on circumstances rather than fraternal and national affections.

Psalm 4:3 – An Exhortation to Prayer

Psalm 4:3 3 But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for himself: the Lord will hear when I call unto him. There is nothing greater that should move a christian away from the world than the fact that God in His good pleasure set us apart from it. Why then do we try so hard …