“If they were all one member, where would the body be?” (1 Corinthians 12:19)
The next time you are frustrated with a fellow Christian – remember this passage. Be careful that you aren’t cutting off your nose to spite your face. It is quite possible that the Christian you are irritated by is different from you for a reason, and your differences would glorify God if you could learn to work together.
Too often, congregations fail because they try and drive away all the members who aren’t like them. Churches that do that aren’t functional; they are a pile of amputated parts. Then they wonder why they aren’t able to succeed. Eyes to see without hands to grab don’t get much done. There is strength in numbers and strength in differences. May we be many members united as one, not one member masquerading as a whole body.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-31
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision