My friend Mike said something many years ago that illustrates a profound problem and truth in Christianity. He said “Doug, do you know why Christian music bands can’t save the world?” I replied “No, Mike… why not?” He answered “Because they never stay together!” We both laughed a bit, then realized how division in Christianity has caused the gospel to lack its full effect. Some division is necessary right? I would rather be divided because of truth than be united in error. But, that being said- many churches are internally divided and that’s not good. Christ centered, Bible teaching churches in the same town are often divided not intentionally, but simply through lack of initiative to stay united and connected. In that wonderful and wild church in Corinth, there was division. Paul had to address it head on. And so he does. Apparently, Chloe’s people made him aware of what was going on.
Now I urge you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment. For I have been informed concerning you, my brothers and sisters, by Chloe’s people, that there are quarrels among you. Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, “I am with Paul,” or “I am with Apollos,” or “I am with Cephas,” or “I am with Christ.” Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you, was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? I am thankful that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius, so that no one would say you were baptized in my name! 1 Corinthians 1:10-14 NASB
Am I an unifier within my home church and the other churches in my town? How? Is there any tendency to divide needlessly?
God, as this day begins- I realize afresh the wonderful power of unity in Christ Jesus, nothing else. Thank you for the church I am a part of… and the other Christ-centered, Bible teaching churches in Corona. Bless their pastors, leaders and people richly. Unify us all in Christ so that all may come to know Jesus in a personal and saving way. I hope there won’t ever be someone who refers to “Doug’s people”, like they did with “Chloe’s people”.
