Working for the Master

Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?   – 1 Corinthians 3:16

If you have ever gone camping and put up a tent for cover, you know to look for level ground that is preferably not in a hole. You want to be on higher ground, able to stay dry in the midst of a stormy deluge. In a home or place of business, you rely on a solid foundation to maintain the safety of the building. 

In the Corinthian church, the assembly was being rocked by false teachers bent on destroying the church. There was jealousy and strife from those who held Paul in high esteem while others regarded Apollos more highly. Paul’s answer was that “like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it” (1 Corinthians 3:10). Paul pleads for unity within the body of believers… unity based on the truths revealed by God through His Spirit in the saving grace of Jesus Christ (3:11).  

Paul impresses upon these believers that “we are God’s fellow workers…God’s field, God’s building” (3:9). Paul urges them to be devoted to the Lord, not any one person… partners working for the Master. Likewise, your life should be characterized by pure motives, holy conduct, and selfless service; one whose work is holy, submissive, and worshipful.  

It is well to remember that, as a believer in Christ, you are His human instrument through which He can channel His love and peace. Guarding the unity of believers is of utmost importance (1 Corinthians 1:10). 

As you think of those responsible for governing this nation, pray that they realize that they are instruments as well, meant to uphold truth, equality, and good for all.