"Since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church."
- 1 Corinthians 14:12
Let us think of the Christian church being like Noah's ark. Just as
Noah and his family had warmth, security, and protection inside their
vessel, so we Christians find reassurance and happiness in the church
as the fellowship of believers.
It is only natural that we, like the Corinthians in our text, should be
eager to see more of the unity of the Spirit among church members. Some
of us try to . . .
"Since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the church."
- 1 Corinthians 14:12
Let us think of the Christian church being like Noah's ark. Just as Noah and his family had warmth, security, and protection inside their vessel, so we Christians find reassurance and happiness in the church as the fellowship of believers.
It is only natural that we, like the Corinthians in our text, should be eager to see more of the unity of the Spirit among church members. Some of us try to bring this about in the wrong way. Instead of building up the brethren, we tear them down. Instead of covering a multitude of sins, we uncover a multitude to change people by whipping them into line. That will not work in the church.
Christian friends, if we want to experience more of Christ and His Spirit in the church, we need to do some construction. This means reassuring one another of the riches we have in Christ. The love of God itself performs the task of changing people; it doesn't put that task on others. Let's consider how Christ dealt with us: "Christ loved the church and gave Himself up for her." Now it's our turn to love like that.
LORD, help us see how much we need each other
As we walk along the Christian way;
In fellowship with sister and with brother,
You will keep us growing day by day.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - The warm fellowship of the church will keep your heart from growing cold.