1 Corinthians 1 reminds me how easily we are divided. We naturally notice differences. Though we all have more in common, some focus on points of disagreement. In reaction, we dig in our heals, and refuse to yield. Today’s lesson is about the power of unity. The apostle Paul writes to the church in the Roman city of Corinth. It was a densely populated, wealthy trade center with a diverse population. At the center of the city was the temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, beauty and pleasure. Paul addresses the letter to “those sanctified in Christ Jesus.” The word sanctified has a specific meaning related to washing clean and setting aside for God’s exclusive use. In that promiscuous city, they would stand out. Knowing these letters would be passed from church to church, he greets Believers “everywhere” with “Grace and peace”. Paul always links peace with grace and asserts they come “from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” He begins with encouragement: “I always thank my God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus.” Communication is more productive after a positive start. He reminds them that they “have been enriched in every way… speech… knowledge… you do not lack any spiritual gift.” Remember, he is addressing a group facing constant ridicule. The ruling elite lavished in selfish pleasure. Paul spoke of looking ahead and being “blameless on the day of our Lord.” Paul reminds us that on our own, we are easily divided. But do not be discouraged because “God is faithful.”
The rich ruling class was a small minority. Keeping the underclasses divided and controlled required constant diligence. Paul tells followers of Christ, there should be “no divisions among you”, rather that they should be “perfectly united in mind and thought.” He has been told “there are quarrels among you”. We see how petty these differences were, and how quickly they separated. Various teachers came to this city, and individuals heard the gospel from different people. This became a point of contention. One claimed, “I follow Paul”, while another said “I follow Apollos”; and the super spiritual argued, “I follow Christ.” Paul cuts through the noise: “Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you?” Here is the power and weakness of the church today. There is only one Savior and there is only One crucified. We are united in Christ. We have the written Word as a guide. Yet, some argue over the acceptable translation, or type of baptism, or structure of the church organization.
Through the rest of the book Paul will teach on the essentials of faith. He will remind us that we are corruptible and self-centered beings. For that reason, we need a singular, righteous authority. Ultimately, he will point to the resurrection of Christ as the one true hope for mankind. He reminds those busy pointing fingers that “no one can say that you were baptized in my name.” Baptism is more than a ceremony or symbol. It is an outward declaration of the individual that they have accepted Christ as Lord of their life. Paul understood his role: “Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel.” And that is what Paul does almost without ceasing. In humility Paul adds that he does not preach “with wisdom and eloquence.” He did not attempt to outwit or complicate the message. He taught from and reasoned with vast knowledge of the Law of Moses, the prophets and Jewish history. Paul did not exalt himself, but pointed everyone to Christ: “lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.” Paul understood the powerful change that was possible when differences are overcome by a greater good. Mercy and grace are the glue, as well as the product of unity in Christ. Friend, let’s read Paul’s instruction together.