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Read: 1 Corinthians 1:10-12
Listen: 1 Corinthians 1

I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.  1 Corinthians 1:10

It doesn’t take long for divisions to develop in the early church. Words fly. Tempers flare. In Corinth, Christians divide over who they follow. Some boast about following Paul, others Apollos or Peter. Though it is not political, division is tearing them apart. So, Paul writes to them about the importance of unity. He reminds them that they are, in the most significant way, brothers and sisters united in Jesus. Their loyalty to each other is more important than their favorite teacher.

We are to live in unity with each other in the same way. First and foremost, we are brothers and sisters in Christ. We have all been adopted into God’s family through Jesus. We are united by the power of the Holy Spirit. Our loyalty to each other must override our political loyalties. We may strongly disagree and vote differently, but we choose to treat others well. We choose, through God’s power, to be loyal to each other, no matter our differences.

TODAY: Ask God to bring someone to mind that you need to treat as a brother or sister in Christ. Pray that God will help you see them as a dearly loved family member who needs your love and understanding.

JESUS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT:

Read Jeremiah 33-34. Highlight anything that points to Jesus. Consider how Jesus is from the line of David, who only does what is just and right.