I do not have a green thumb. Most of what I plant dies. That can’t be said for the work I do in the church. God has done some incredible things in the lives of the people of our church. I don’t take credit for it because I know I am only one of God’s fellow workers. Through some, He plants, and through others, He waters. God is the one who brings the growth.
1 Corinthians 3:7-9
So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 8 He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor. 9 For we are God’s fellow workers. You are God’s field, God’s building
Church Near Breaking
A debate had broken out in the church of Corinth over who was responsible for the growth in the church. Some had sided with Paul and others with Apollos, while others sided with Jesus. The church was split into multiple factions and threatened to tear at the fabric. Apollos had a charismatic personality that appealed to the vain side of the Corinthians, while some held firm to Paul as the founder. Paul put it all to rest by telling them that he and Apollos were fellow coworkers and God brought about the growth.
It’s God’s Church
Disputes break out like this all the time in the church. You get a few power-hungry people who want things their way, and soon the church is going sideways instead of forward. The selfish desires of leadership have ruined many churches. It is God’s church, and He does with it what He wants. The pastors and leaders are coworkers who will be rewarded for their labors. God is their boss, and when they stand before Him, they will have to answer for their actions. That should make every pastor tremble in their shoes.
God’s Fellow Workers
Most of you are congregation members at a local church. Some of you have seen terrible things. From now on, this is what you need to do. First, you need to pray. God can handle the situation better than you can. Give it to Him. Second, use discernment. You don’t have to give your blessing to something that brings concern. Finally, love everyone. All of us are sinners in need of grace, and your extension of love could help them over the hump.