Scripture Text: 1 Corinthians 1:10
I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose.
1 Corinthians 1:10
What was Paul's purpose in writing to the Corinthian church? Why did he send a letter to the Corinthians?
Paul addressed this letter to the church in Corinth while he was visiting Ephesus during his third missionary journey. While in Ephesus, he heard about problems in Corinth (v. 11). A delegate from the Corinthian church visited Paul to ask his advice about their conflicts. Paul's purpose for writing was to correct those problems and to answer questions church members had asked in a previous letter (1 Corinthians 7:1). The Corinthian people had a reputation for jumping from entertainment to entertainment. Paul wanted to keep Christianity from degenerating into just another entertainment.
Paul was appealing to the church in verse 10, saying, "I appeal to you dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose."
There are some churches today that are like the situation in the church of Corinth, facing such trials or problems. Members having misunderstandings inside the church. Sometimes, it leads to quarreling that results in DISAGREEMENT, DISUNITY, and DIVISION.
Like a frustrated coach watching his team on the court, Paul called for a time-out. He saw the danger of divisions and disagreements. The Corinthian believers' lack of unity was obvious. They may have been playing in the same "uniform" but they were doing as much as the opposition to bring about their own defeat. The problem is that they have no "unity" in opinion as divided confidence. They were arguing which position on the team was most important in a way that made it ineffective as a unit. They were on the field but out of the game.
Divisions between Christians’ work is like a wall and barbed wire fences that weaken the effectiveness of the message that believers are to proclaim. Let us focus on our coach, Jesus Christ and in the purpose for which He has called us. Let us strive for harmony. Let us keep arguments about allegiances off the team.
Reflect
1. What is harmony to you?
2. When do you say there is harmony in the church?
3. Is there a true harmony in the church?
4. How can you say there is harmony in us?
Remember
True harmony can be found in the life of churches that focus their lives to Jesus who gives us victory.
Read
1 Corinthians 1:10; 1 Corinthians 11:18; Philippians 1:27, 28
Pray
Thank You Lord that as we continue to live in this life, You are here protecting us, keeping safe against these deceitful enemies. Continue to give us a humble heart. In Your Name, amen.
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