V 17. But in the following instructions, I cannot praise you. For it sounds as if more harm than good is done when you meet together.
What a disaster! How come that what we call ‘Communion’, and should be a precious moment of recalling the life and sacrificial death of Jesus, had become a focal point for divisions and selfish behaviour? The Church in Corinth certainly had its problems! Right at the beginning of the letter you find this in 1 v 4: I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts he has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. Through him, God has enriched your church in every way. Only to find by verse 10: I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. For some members of Chloe’s household have told me about your quarrels, my dear brothers and sisters.
God had undoubtedly blessed them, but love and unity had been lost to such an extent that their meetings for fellowship and worship had given rise to moments of ugly divisions and quarrels! So Paul had to appeal to them in very strong terms to get their act together and live in harmony – as they should. Love demands unity – and as we read yesterday, that means letting go of selfish plans in order to promote the good of all.
Lord – please build love in our Church fellowship, enabling us to work together and strengthen your work in our Community. AMEN.
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