Unity: A Study in 1 CorinthiansSample

What does it say?

Paul thanked God for the Corinthians’ spiritual gifts. He then addressed disunity in the church and stressed the power of the message of the cross.

What does it mean?

Despite being blessed with spiritual knowledge and spiritual gifts, Corinthian church members quarreled. The issue at hand wasn’t one of doctrine but of preference. Factions were elevating one leader over another. The disunity was only a symptom of a much deeper problem: pride in human wisdom and the ability to draw people to Christ. Paul urged them to be of one mind, reminding them that the message of salvation through Christ alone was far more important than the messenger. The power and wisdom of God are revealed in Jesus. Outside of Him, there is no reason for anyone to boast.

How should I respond?

If you grew up with at least one sibling, you’ve probably been in a family squabble. As believers, we’re not just in the family of God, we are the body of Christ. When Christians quarrel, it’s like a body attacking itself; it’s unnatural. Human wisdom and pride are at the forefront of disunity in the church. God’s wisdom always points to one person, Jesus. Are you currently in a dispute with another Christian? How is it distracting from the mission and message of Christ? Sincerely ask God in what way you may have elevated your wisdom over His. Lay down your pride and glory in the Lord alone.