The Corinthian church was dealing with something that nearly every church must wrestle with at some point or another: division over cults of personality. Paul makes clear to them — and to us today — that there is just no room in the Church for that kind of thing. Feeling affection toward a dear believer, in this case a particular pastor or leader, is not the issue. The problem arises when pockets of believers begin to form around loyalty to anyone other than the Lord Jesus.
One of the ways in particular this worked itself out in the Corinthian church is through baptism, which is why Paul expresses relief over having not baptized many in the Corinthian congregation: That means one fewer knot to untangle!
What every leader in the Church is called to do is labor toward the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ — the one crucified for us, into whose name we are baptized. As the Holy Spirit moves in the church, some are drawn more to unpretentious and plain ministry like that of St. Paul, others are drawn to generational preaching talents like Apollos. Others still are attracted to the pedigree of certain pastors like St. Peter. But all of us, when the Spirit conquers our sinful tendency to play favorites, are united in the one ancient confession of the church: “I follow Christ.”
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At St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Gibbon, Minnesota, God has gathered a congregation where all ages are present, from newborns to grandparents. We are united in Christ through the historic liturgy. Children are a visible and joyful part of our life together, with active Sunday School and youth ministries woven into the fabric of our community. Here, every generation receives the saving benefits of Christ through His Word and Sacraments. Whether you’re listening nearby or far away, you’re welcome to join us in person or online.
Visit us: 63924 240th St, Gibbon, MN 55335 | (507) 834-6676 | splcgibbon.org
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