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Day 3: Challenges of Division and Disunity
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 3:1-9
Devotional:
One of the most significant problems in the Corinthian church was division. The congregation was fractured into groups, each claiming allegiance to different leaders—Paul, Apollos, Cephas, and even Christ. This disunity was a symptom of their spiritual immaturity, as Paul points out in 1 Corinthians 3:1-9. He calls them “infants in Christ” and explains that their focus on human leaders instead of Christ revealed their lack of spiritual growth.
The divisions in Corinth arose because the believers were prioritizing human wisdom, status, and eloquence over the gospel message. Paul makes it clear that both he and Apollos were merely servants through whom the Corinthians believed, and that it was ultimately God who caused the growth. Paul uses the metaphor of planting and watering to illustrate that while different people play different roles, it is God who makes things grow. In the end, the focus should not be on the leaders, but on God, who works through them.
Today, disunity remains a challenge in many churches. Whether it’s differing opinions on worship styles, theological interpretations, or leadership preferences, division distracts us from the gospel and weakens our collective witness. Paul’s message is a reminder that we should not align ourselves with human personalities or perspectives but with Christ alone.
Reflection:
- Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to align with human leaders, personalities, or perspectives more than with Christ?
- Think about the divisions you see in your own church or community. How might focusing on Christ help overcome those divisions and bring unity?
Application:
Take some time today to reflect on any disunity that may be present in your church, small group, or community. Are you contributing to division in any way—perhaps through gossip, unresolved conflicts, or prioritizing personal preferences? Seek God’s guidance in how you can become a peacemaker, promoting unity by focusing on Christ as the foundation. If there is someone with whom you’ve had disagreements, consider reaching out to them this week to restore unity.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that divisions and disunity can creep into our hearts and our churches. Forgive us for the times when we have focused more on human leaders or our own preferences than on You. Help us to grow in spiritual maturity and to seek unity with our fellow believers. May we remember that You are the one who causes growth, and that we are all called to work together for Your glory. Bring healing and reconciliation where there is division, and unite us in our love for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.