Sermon Direct Link
8/27/23
Rev. Clint Smith
Paul greeted the Church in Corinth with Apostolic grace and authority. He was a God-appointed special messenger, personally chosen representative of Jesus Christ. Acts 9:3–9; 22:6–11; 26:12–18
Paul acknowledged the work of the Holy Spirit in the Corinthian Church and the spiritual gifts God had blessed them with. 1 Corinthians 12
Paul commended the Corinthian Church for their spiritual knowledge and their Christian testimony.
The Corinthian Church was established in Jesus Christ so much so, they were looking forward to His return.
Paul declared to the Church that God is forever faithful, impeccably reliable, unswervingly trustworthy, and eternally true to His promise – He can be depended on. Malachi 3:6; James 1:17
Paul affirmed the call of the Corinthian Church into fellowship with Jesus Christ our Lord. It was evident, they belong to the family of God.
All things in the Corinthian Church were not good. Paul plead with the Church in the name of Jesus to be unified in all things.
Division by definition is the process of being separated. Paul called the Church to be of the same mind and of the same judgment. W.W.J.D.?
Disputes concerning Christian brothers and sisters were and are divisive. It is okay to disagree but disagree without being disagreeable.
Each person in the Corinthian Church had their favorite religious leader. They erred due to their personal opinions instead of having the mind of Christ.
Division in the Corinthian Church focused on personal likes.
1. “I am of Paul.” Paul was a well-educated, leading Jew.
2. “I am of Apollos.” He was a man with zeal and was an eloquent speaker.
3. “I am of Cephas. Simon Peter, also known as Cephas. He was enthusiastic, strong-willed, impulsive, and, at times, brash.
4. “I am of Christ.” Jesus was the Son of God.
Paul did not speak against liking certain speakers, he spoke against dividing the Church. He wanted them united around Christ Jesus.
