IS CHRIST DIVIDED?

FOLLOW THE LEADER

Read 1 Corinthians Chapters 1 – 3

     Now I say this, that each of you says, "I am of Paul," or "I am of Apollos," or "I am of Cephas," or "I am of Christ." Is Christ divided? 1 Corinthians 1:12-13a NKJV

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      The church at Corinth had several gifted teachers, each with his own style of ministry. The new converts were lining up contentiously behind their favorite leaders, causing division in the church. Paul writes,

     “Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” (3:5-6) He urges them to come together in unity saying, “Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor." (3:8)
      It is human nature to get our eyes on men instead of God. Many a ministry has been hindered because of this wrong focus. Paul reminds them and us,"Therefore let no one boast in men. For all things are yours… And you are Christ's, and Christ is God's. "(3:21, 23)

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      Lord, keep us from being critical of leaders who are doing Your work, but not in the way we would choose. Help us to be gracious and thankful that we have so many resources available to us. Above all, help us to build faithfully on the foundation of Your Word.

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      For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  1 Corinthians 3:11 NKJV