Draw Near – 365 Guides to Greater Intimacy with GodSample

PUBLIC REBUKE

The same day the disastrous Chicago fire broke out, a forest fire started in Peshtigo, Wisconsin, which killed five hundred more people than the Chicago blaze. Called the worst natural disaster in history, the Wisconsin fire started when many small fires were sparked in the dry weather. The Chicago conflagration received more publicity because it caused far more property damage and because of the romantic story of Mrs. O'Leary's cow beginning the Chicago blaze. However, both fires were devastating.

Much attention was given to the false prophets within the early church. However, Paul saw another potential danger to the young church--a disagreement between two ladies in the assembly. Apparently the feud had reached such proportions that it threatened to consume the little church. Paul insisted that drastic measures be taken.

Never one to back away from problems, Paul insisted that other believers help the ladies settle their differences. Often we need others to help us see our problem from a different viewpoint before we can solve it. We must remember that, left unattended, our little fires of anger can bring destruction and even spiritual death.