Outline:
Recap:
- Scripture was written as a communal work by the communities of God
- We see God trying to form community at the beginning of Scripture
- We see God's emphasis on community through the Judges and people's rejection of it through the Kings
- We see the impact of the individual on the community through David
- The Prophets speak to the community
- The exiles returning to Israel tried to reemphasize community
- Jesus built a community around Himself
- Jesus reached out to non-Jews around Him to bring them into community
- The first Christian community were bonded by following Christ Jesus
- They first Christians wanted to look after one another
- Unity was of vital importance to the early Christians
Covering two of the main issues in 1 Corinthians:
1. Unity:
- The first thing Paul discusses to the Corinthians in this letter (1 Cor. 1:10-18)
- Issue of belonging- which group/teacher do you follow (1 Cor. 1:12)
- Paul points out that ultimately the community is called to follow only one: Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 1:13-17)
2. Gifts of the Spirit:
- Covered in 1 Corinthians 12-14
- Unity yet diversity in gifts as the all come from the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:4)
- Gives a focus to the individual
- At the same time, the gifts are meant to be used for the community
- Body and Members analogy in 1 Cor. 12:12-31
- Gifts aren't the most important thing, but the Love behind them (1 Cor. 13)
Conclusion:
- Each given our own gifts by God
- Those gifts are meant to help and hold up the community
- Called to be as one in community
- Called to belong to Christ Jesus and not be divided