Scripture: 1
Corinthians 1:1-9
Over the next few weeks many congregations will read the
better part of the first three chapters of 1 Corinthians in their Sunday
lessons. This book has much to say to the modern Christian Church. It speaks of
issues of unity, doctrine, authority, leadership, love, and more. In this introductory
section Paul cordially greets the Corinthian congregations, but he also speaks
to them strategically; calling them to see themselves as part of the larger
Church and to see that their standing before God is rooted in Jesus. In the
Epiphany season this letter, written to Christians who are largely of a gentile
background, reminds us that all believers in Christ are united in a blessed
fellowship and community of faith.
Teaching
We should note when we read this introductory section that
Paul places the Corinthian Christians in the context of the larger Church. They
are, “the church of God that is in Corinth,” that is, the part of the church
that happens to be located in that particular city, but they are also, “called
to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the
name of our Lord Jesus Christ,” (emphasis mine). As Christians we are called (which
means more than just invited, but means that we are chosen) to be part of the
great fellowship of those who are saved by faith in Jesus. (The word translated
fellowship is koinonia, which is an
important term and means a mutual participation with someone and implies a
connection between people that is much more than superficial.)
Also note how Paul places the Corinthians, and us, in
relationship with Jesus. He uses the title “Lord” six times in these nine
verses. We should not overlook this. Corinth was a highly pluralistic society –
there were many religions and philosophies influencing the culture and people
of that city. That influence was also felt by the church in Corinth and the
Christians there. Paul is establishing whose authority he is writing to them
with: not his own, but the Lord’s. It is the Lord who enriched them, confirmed
them, given them spiritual gifts, sustains them, and calls them into fellowship
with himself and all his people.
Life
Like the Corinthians we live in a highly pluralistic society
and deal with beliefs and philosophies that contradict what our Lord says in
his Word. What will we do with that contradiction? This is an important
question for individual Christians as well as congregations and denominations.
We must consider who we are in light of the Lord Jesus Christ whose death and
resurrection reconciles us to God and gives us access to him.
We should also consider that the grace and peace from God
our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ make us part of something larger than
ourselves. Where do you experience the fellowship we have because of the grace
of God? How might being part of Jesus’ fellowship impact your experience of
worship? Your prayers? Your reception of the Lord’s Supper?
Prayer
Lord, you have called us and made us part of your fellowship
by grace. Thank you! Sometimes we don’t recognize, honor, or care about the
others who are part of that fellowship. Please forgive us. Help us to see ourselves
and others rightly in relationship to you and to our fellow believers because
of the salvation you have won for us. Amen.
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