Episode 2817 - Lesson 3 - Sabbath July 11 - Unity in Christ

Sabbath AfternoonRead for This Week's Study: 1 Cor. 1:12-17, Rom. 1:29, 1 Cor. 1:10, 1 Cor. 3:1-4, Phil. 2:5-8, 2 Cor. 11:23-28, Col. 1:24.Memory Text: "I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment" (1 Corinthians 1:10, ESV).Those who observe wildlife know that some creatures live in packs, in herds, in groups, all of varying sizes. From wolves (of course), to dolphins, to even army ants, these creatures stick together. Chimpanzees are especially known for their tight-knit social bonds, sometimes existing in groups of from 15 to 150 fellow chimps. However, these relationships are not always harmonious, and sometimes the chimps fight among themselves.Humans are somewhat like that as well; that is, not only do they tend to exist in groups, but they sometimes fight among themselves in those groups. And that's a reality even in our churches! Cliques form, often around some kind of charismatic leader. And, even worse, sometimes one clique does not get along with others.Have you ever seen that in your church? If so, then you have an idea of an issue Paul faced in Corinth. This week we will take a look at 1 Corinthians 1-4, where the apostle Paul deals with the problem of quarrels in the church and how to overcome them, namely, through unity in Christ.* Study this week's lesson to prepare for Sabbath, July 18.