This weekend we'll move on to chapter three in our study. Paul returns to an issue he mentioned briefly at the start of the letter--divisions among the faithful. Here he points to the heart of the matter. Here's an outline of the chapter:
v. 1-4 Jealousy, quarreling and selfishness - this, Paul demonstrates, is how the world behaves. There's a carnality here that frustrates spiritual maturing. Notice the phrases Paul uses like "you are still worldly" and "acting like mere men." At the root of this division is immaturity and carnality. In the specific instance he's addressing (that report he received from Chloe's household) it has manifest itself in their separating--some calling themselves followers of this teacher, and others of that teacher.
v. 5-15 Paul clarifies the role of teachers and their relationship to God's work. God orchestrates this plan--He places teachers and ministers in just the right setting to sound just the right notes, but it is God who is the composer, arranger and conductor. Paul, Apollos, Cephas, whomever--instruments in God's masterpiece.
v. 16-23 The chapter (indeed, this subject) concludes with a sober warning: Do not deceive yourselves! God takes this matter very seriously.
Paul commends unity to the young church as a matter of utmost importance. He began his letter with a mention. He clarifies it here. He gives a warning--If anyone destroys God's temple, He will destroy them! Sounds serious, doesn't it?
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