1 Corinthians 3
Paul’s Speech Regarding Sectarianism…
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Paul talked to the Corinthians about sectarianism being carnal (earthly or fleshly). He had already spoken to them at an earlier time—feeding them with “milk,” because they were not able to eat “meat.” In this chapter, he told them that they were STILL carnal, because they were fighting with each other about which MAN (Paul or Apollos) they should be following, instead of following GOD.
He then defined the difference between people planting and watering the seed, and GOD bringing the increase. On Earth, there are many gardeners, but the garden itself is from God alone. The fields belong to Him, and no man can rebuild that foundation. Each man’s work will be seen as it bears fruit in the fields, and God rewards those who plant, water, and tend His fields. However, He is always the owner.
Paul then explained to them that the temple of God is WITHIN those who have believed. Through the sacrifice of the Perfect Lamb—Jesus–the temple of God has now been established inside man—not in buildings made of stone. We are now God’s holy temple. It is extremely important that we understand that we are not to be basing our lives on worldly knowledge and understanding. Those things are futile. Instead, we are to be basing our lives on the Word of God, led by Holy Spirit.
It’s not important to follow one man or another. However, it’s vitally important (a matter of life or death) to continually follow God’s Word and His Spirit. Paul finished his talk with the Corinthians, saying (in verses 21-23):
“Therefore, let no one boast in men. For all things are yours. Whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas, or the world or life or death, or things present or things to come—all are yours, and…YOU ARE CHRIST’S AND CHRIST IS GOD’S.
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Our Prayer, in Response…
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Father God, this day and all days, please remind me to spend time reading or listening to your Word, so that not only can I discern correctly, but so that I can also plant–leading others to live for you, as well. Help me to remember not to live my life in a worldly manner, and to appreciate and respect those who know and preach your Word, but not to worship anyone but you. I want to grow in your ways, Lord, becoming more spiritually- and less carnally-minded, every day–with the understanding that I am part of your temple here on Earth, you are my Father, Jesus is my High Priest, and Holy Spirit is my Helper. I praise you, and I worship you, and thank you for the wonderful life you have given me.
Amen
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Scripture taken from the New King James Version®
Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission.
All rights reserved.
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