Paul wrote his first letter to the Corinthians while in Ephesus after he heard of some issues plaguing the church. The issues Paul deals with in 1 Corinthians are the same issues we deal with today, which is why this is such a good book for the modern day church to study.
However, before Paul dives into the issues, he reminds the Corinthians, and subsequently us, of who we are in Christ.
In 1 Corinthians 1:2 Paul writes:
“To the church of God that is in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours.” (1 Cor. 1:2)
Based on 1 Corinthians 1:2, the first thing we learn is that:
(1) Those who are in Christ form a church that is set apart and set on mission by God
Notice Paul calls the Corinthians “the church of God”. They are called the church of God to distinguish them from any other gathering, which is an important idea because the church is unique. We are formed and led by God. As well as we are a people sanctified by Jesus. He makes us holy and sets us apart as God’s people.
In Jesus, sinners are made righteous. They are made Holy. They are set apart as God’s people to accomplish His mission — To make disciples.
I think we often forget how much of a privilege it is to be on God’s mission. We are sinners, who have rebelled against God. However, despite who we are, God sees fit to call us to Himself, makes us holy, and then employee us in His mission.
Thinking about God not only saving us but using us — sinners who at one time rebelled against Him and set themselves up as His enemies — is simply amazing to me. It is amazing that God would care enough to rescue His enemies. It amazes me further that He doesn’t set us on the shelf afterwards, but He actually empowers and allows us to participate in His mission.
So the next time you have an opportunity to have a gospel conversation with someone, don’t shy away. Instead praise God for saving and using you to accomplish His mission — To make disciples.
Question for Reflection
- Do recognize the immense privilege it is to be used by God?
Resources
Post adapted from my sermon Who Are We In Christ?