LORD’S DAY, MAY 7
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
2 Corinthians 6:1

"For we are labourers
together with God…"

LABOURERS TOGETHER WITH GOD

The cure to personality cults in the church is to realise that everyone is a fellow labourer in the Lord’s vineyard. We can learn three things from this passage:

1. Unity. The one who plants and the one who waters are one. Thus, there is no good reason for division or strife among the labourers. Paul was given the task of preaching the gospel and organising the church (cf. 1 Cor 3:10), while Apollos continued the work by indoctrinating the Corinthian believers in God’s Word. Similarly, believers should use the diverse gifts (which God has given them) towards the same purpose of the extension of Christ’s kingdom.

2. Privilege. What have we done to be deserving of serving the most High God in His harvest field? Absolutely nothing! Were we not once His enemies? We must not lose the perspective of what it means to be a fellow labourer (sunergon) alongside the Lord in His work. This should stir us to faithful service for Christ.

3. Labour. The fact that we are called labourers demands us to be diligent and not slothful. We will be rewarded according to our faithfulness (1 Cor 3:8, cf. Matt 25:14-30). The results are to be left to God.

"So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do" (Luke 17:10).

May the Lord keep us humble in our service for Him, preferring one another in the bonds of love.

THOUGHT: It is most blessed when brethren dwell in unity.
PRAYER: Lord, what a great privilege it is that I can serve Thee.