As we read this one of many letters Paul penned to the believers at Corinth, we become aware of what a complicated and conflicted group the church can be. Paul says they are God's church, called by God, made holy by God through Jesus Christ, and graciously endowed by God with every spiritual gift (to go along with their knowledge and eloquence.) You might think a church with all that going for it wouldn't have many problems. But we soon find out that the church can be as ragged as it is rich. For all its assets, this congregation is fractured. Unity, harmony, agreement are sorely lacking. Paul must assert his authority and appeal to the church to cease their quarreling and their clique-ishness.
We labor under these same conditions in our own churches today. Gatherings of blessed and gifted people, and yet so uninspiring; of ill- or no effect upon the world because of division and dissension.
Since the only person you can control is you, what will you do (do differently) to bring unity and harmony to your congregation? Christ is the great Reconciler, who said "Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God." Can you let your family resemblance to brother Jesus show out by making peace among His people, healing divisions, and emphasizing the treasure we all share from our gracious God?
Pray: Father who calls us, Jesus who makes us holy, Spirit who showers us with manifold gifts, help us. We are rich in utilities and bankrupt in unity. Bring us together at the foot of the cross and at the mouth of an empty grave. Replace our quarreling with praise. Conduct us as a gifted orchestra; bring out your symphony from the comm-unity you have called us to. And by your music, win the world.
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