1 Cor. 1:10-17

I find that Paul’s clarity on his mission is very refreshing and unsettling. It is refreshing to know exactly where he stands. It is unsettling because he is so sold out to the Gospel message and to Jesus that he almost seems too radical. Is it possible to be too radical for Christ? I mean, if you are truly sold out to Jesus and his message—not political or selfish undertones—can you be too radical? A follow up question: How far does Christ want us to go?

I am also amazed at what happens in churches when we get into the “cult of personality” (cue the 80s rock song here). Paul clearly calls on all Christians to put away hero worship and focus all devotion on Christ. Once again, Paul wants human agenda out of the way. For him, the most important aspect of Christianity is Christ. Go figure!

An interesting note: Paul says he did not call me to baptize, but to preach. Did Paul associate baptism with local pastors? Is he saying that he is called to be an evangelist-preacher, and that others are supposed to baptize and build the local church? If so, then God must call individuals to serve in specific functions. So, what is your specific role in the church, and are you doing it to the best of your ability?

After reading 1 Cor. 1, my prayer today is this: Father, let me totally focused on your Gospel today. Let your son be the center of my thoughts, so my Christianity will be full of Christ. Give me the grace and power I need to fulfill the unique calling you have given me. Thank you for reminding me that church is not about me, but about you. Teach me to worship you and you alone. And help me to point others to you.

Thank you. Amen.