Shared Labor

Scott Beyer
03/14/23 - Bulletin

“What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one.” (1 Corinthians 3:5)

            We are quick to assert which leaders in the church we prefer and which ones we dislike.  We are often quick to argue over and sometimes even divide over the leadership of others.  We dispute the leadership of men, forgetting that they are just men.  Of course, Apollos will have some traits preferable to those of Paul!  Of course, there are times you will find yourself closer to Paul than Apollos – such is the case when dealing with men.  Apollos may be more appealing to the sensitive at heart.  Paul more appealing to those driven and passionate… or maybe Apollos just led your favorite song on Sunday, and Paul never leads anything but slow songs.

            Far too often the wrong questions are asked in our hearts.  The better question is: what opportunities has the Lord given to me?  Am I seizing them?  Am I doing the work He has made me for?  When I focus on my work, I am less critical of others laboring elsewhere in the same vineyard.

Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites

Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:1-10

Questions to ask:

1. How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
2. What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
3. How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
4. What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
5. How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?

This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul.  If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision

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