September 8 The Uniting Factor: HIS LOVE 1 Corinthians 1:10
Good morning from Pastor Glen Brock, Baptist Tabernacle Church, Wendell, North Carolina… “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” (1 Corinthians 1:10)
In our human condition, conflict and disagreements are, unfortunately, a part of the reality of life, however, we do not have to succumb to this satanically motivated attitude! In the scripture passage for today, Paul urges the Corinthian church to be united, as strife and division undermine the body of Christ. This call for unity highlights the importance of working through disagreements and coming together in one mind and purpose (and that purpose is not our opinions, biases, or prejudices). Strife within the church weakens its witness and hampers its mission. Satan is excited when the “church” presents, to the world, a witness of conflict and disharmony and strife! Is it possible that strife and unresolved conflict is a result of immature believers and the willingness for “Pride” to dominate the narrative? Proverbs 13:10 – “Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.” FACT: A Growing and Maturing Believer is going to demonstrate humility and the desire to edify Christ, and not our own narrow and worldly agenda! Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Paul encourages believers to avoid actions that stem from selfishness and pride, as these are the root causes of strife. By valuing others above ourselves, we foster humility and peace, preventing conflict and promoting unity within the body of Christ. The reality is crystal clear… Our responsibility, as a Redeemed Follower of Jesus, is to “Seek” His Will, “Follow” His Way, and “Live” His Promises and Power! This does not include engaging in strife and chaos, motivated by immature and selfish human pride! Just a few days ago, I posted a devotion entitled, “Watch Your Mouth,” and the private responses were interesting! From this experience, I have determined that some who are aligned as Believers, would rather be “right,” in their own eyes, than to be “Righteous” in His eyes! I truly understand that we are not going to agree on everything, all of the time, however, our own pride and opinions should not be the motivating factor in our relationships with others! 2 Timothy 2:23-24 speaks to this clearly… “Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”
Paul advises young Timothy to avoid engaging in arguments that lead to strife, instead he instructs Timothy to embrace the calling for kindness, patience, and the ability to teach. Strife and quarrels often arise from pride or ignorance, but those who follow Christ are called to respond with humility and gentleness. Listen to 1 Peter 3:9: “Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.” Peter instructs believers to respond to strife with blessing rather than retaliation. This reflects the heart of the gospel… Peace and Reconciliation instead of Vengeance. When we choose not to repay evil with evil, we demonstrate Christ-like love and extend grace to others, and this is the goal of the church, individual believers and the message of Jesus for this sinful world! I choose to live to represent Christ, not myself, and I pray that, as Psalm 19:14 expresses… “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” Stay Strong, Stay Focused… THE BEST IS YET TO BE!