We Belong HereSample

Paul is quite direct about how the church at Corinth should behave towards those who are inside (vs 12) and those who are outside (vs 13). This kind of approach might seem against the usual culture seen in the present society. It sounds wrong to speak of the church having insiders and outsiders, and yet it is in the Bible. The heart of this passage is to understand the sheer privilege of belonging to a local church. If there is no possibility of having a meaningful relationship with a church, then there can be no likelihood for Paul to speak about insiders and outsiders.

It is easy to put on a front of being an insider while living like an outsider. ‘If I can present the best version of myself on a Sunday morning, and on virtual media - but go on living in sin, violating holiness in my private life, why do I even need to belong to a church?’ ‘If I don’t allow people in my local church to drive me away from sinfulness, and inspire me to pursue holiness, why do I even need to belong to a church?’ A proper biblical understanding of being part of a church stimulates and nurtures Gospel Purity in a community.

Now, who among us dislikes the pursuit of purity?! Friends, The Gospel Purifies. It is true that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone, But we must not forget that the gospel doesn’t only save us, but transforms us. Thus in this passage, Paul is very concerned that the Corinthians protect and purify their church community.

Questions for Reflection

1. What are the general fears you have when you think of commitment and belonging to a local church?

2. What is a good first step you can take toward wholehearted commitment to your local church?