Like us the Corinthian Church was immature. Jesus is working on us, and Paul urges this church to grow up and get wise; they haven’t (despite their issues) stopped being transformed by God or developing holiness but it’s a slow job.  Paul challenges the lack of change he sees. They are still babies, not living in the transformation that Christ paid for in His blood (a challenge to me right here, right now!).

Paul wants to challenge the division, so in chapter 3 he likens the work of the different leaders to a team of gardeners or farmers, reminding his readers that their aim is the same “one purpose” v.8.  “Only God makes things grow” (how often do we try and force things?) and Paul (like Jesus) encourages his readers to see a different picture, not of faction but of team: sometimes Jesus transforms the LANGUAGE and His word changes everything!  The demand is not for instant unity but for a change in perspective.  Paul shifts his language to continue our thoughts on the idea of God’s building.

Verses 10-15 might remind us of the parable of the talents in the Gospel – take care how you build. There is a bit of prayerful thought to be done here as we think about the now-and-not-yet quality of our walk with God. It’s about how we build (or do) and yet we know we can’t ‘do’ anything – it’s Christ’s gift of grace that enables us to complete what we’re called to BUT that doesn’t mean I’m not eager to get out there and join in.

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Questions:

Are you encouraged: these Corinthians had made a mess - but they can come back and build better? Are you challenged: do you sit too easily with division and think it’s ok? Are you challenged: As you look at church in your area are you asking, “Are we truly seeking God on matters of unity?”

Prayer:

Jesus, show me where I need to ‘change the language’ as I think about a problem or a situation. Give me Your perspective and words for that today. Amen.