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. I Corinthians 1:10 NIV
…so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it. Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
I Corinthians 12:25-27 NIV
This week we’ve looked at Paul’s picture of the glorious body of Christ in I Corinthians 12. A review of the preceding 11 chapters shows that Paul was addressing a severely divided church. Although he began the letter with a positive tone, reports from “Chloe’s people” informed him of factious theological quarrels, relapses into idolatry, and an off-bounds sexual escapade of a church member that drew universal disapproval, even in sexually libertine Corinth.
Paul’s directives for these serious problems were not meant to dismantle that church but to discipline errant members and lead others to peaceable solutions and righteous actions. None of his remedies included leaving for a better congregation or returning to life apart from the fellowship of a robust Christian community.
Today, the Lone Ranger spirit whispers suggestions to churchgoing Christians in our individualistic culture: “Why stay? – You’re a perpetual outsider”; “Your talents aren’t needed”; “Nobody fully appreciates your contributions”; “You’re burned out”; “Neither sin or bad theology are being fully addressed”; “Your cherished leader has failed miserably”; or “Your voice won’t be heard”.
Did I miss anything?
It almost goes without saying that a true follower of Jesus should be encouraged to leave a cult, an abusive situation or an oppressive organization, in order to pursue a healthy faith community. (It’s obvious that a significant change in geographical location also makes moving to a new group necessary.)
Temptations to abandon the ordinary difficulties of life together in Christian community will arise until Jesus establishes his final Kingdom. But scripture encourages persistence in our gathering together in spite of temporary setbacks. Here’s one of my favorite quotes:
“Never allow the thought – ‘I am of no use where I am’; because you certainly can be of no use where you are not.” – Oswald Chambers
Resolve to be a healthy, functioning part of the body where Jesus calls you to serve.
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 NIV
by Kathleen Petersen
