Adapted from: Unity Through Humility by Dr. Sam Holm
Finding Unity Through Gospel Humility
You might wonder how to find unity in a world that seems so divided. Whether it's politics, sports teams, or even within our own communities, division is everywhere. But what if I told you that the key to unity lies in something as simple yet profound as humility? In our recent sermon from 1 Corinthians 4, we explored how gospel humility can bring us together in ways we never imagined.
The Power of Humble Judgment
In 1 Corinthians 4, Paul teaches us that our judgment should be different from the world's. He says, "This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God." Paul isn't asking to be seen as a great leader but as a humble servant. He emphasizes that it's the Lord who judges us, not human courts or even ourselves.
Our culture is quick to judge and divide. But Paul reminds us that the ultimate judge is God, who will bring to light the things hidden in darkness and disclose the purposes of the heart. This perspective should humble us and make us less quick to judge others. Instead, we should focus on being faithful stewards of the gospel, knowing that our commendation comes from God, not man.
Gratitude: The Antidote to Arrogance
Paul goes on to challenge the Corinthians' arrogance by asking, "What do you have that you did not receive?" This question is a powerful reminder that everything we have is a gift from God. When we recognize this, it fosters a sense of gratitude rather than pride.
Imagine how different our interactions would be if we approached each other with humble gratitude. Instead of boasting about our achievements or possessions, we would acknowledge that all we have is by God's grace. This attitude not only humbles us but also unites us, as we all stand on equal footing before God.
The Importance of Being Teachable
Paul concludes by urging the Corinthians to be imitators of him, as he follows Christ. He sends Timothy to remind them of his ways in Christ, emphasizing the importance of being teachable. In a world where everyone seems to think they know best, being teachable is a rare and valuable trait.
Being teachable means being open to correction and willing to learn. It's about recognizing that we don't have all the answers and that we can grow through the wisdom and experiences of others. This humility makes us more approachable and fosters a sense of community and unity.
Action Steps
So, what does this mean for you? How can you apply these principles of humble judgment, gratitude, and teachability in your own life? Start by asking yourself these questions:
1. Evaluate Your Judgment: How often do you judge others based on your own standards rather than God's? Reflect on your interactions and consider how you can be more gracious and less judgmental.
2. Practice Gratitude: Do you recognize that everything you have is a gift from God, and do you express gratitude for it? Make it a daily habit to thank God for His blessings, big and small.
3. Be Teachable: Are you open to learning and being corrected, or do you think you know it all? Seek out opportunities for growth, whether through reading Scripture, attending Bible studies, or engaging in meaningful conversations with others.
4. Promote Unity: In your community, workplace, or family, look for ways to bring people together rather than divide. Share the message of Christ and Him crucified, emphasizing the common ground we have in Jesus.
5. Live Out the Gospel: Let the good news of Jesus Christ transform your life. As you focus on what He has done for you, allow it to humble you and shape your interactions with others.
Conclusion
The point is, Jesus wants your whole heart. What will you do this week to give it to Him? Will you choose to judge less and love more? Will you practice gratitude and acknowledge God's gifts in your life? Will you be open to learning and growing in your faith?
By embracing gospel humility, we can find unity in a divided world. Let's commit to being humble servants, grateful for God's blessings, and teachable in our walk with Christ. Together, we can make a difference and bring the light of the gospel to those around us.
The Power of Humble Judgment
In 1 Corinthians 4, Paul teaches us that our judgment should be different from the world's. He says, "This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God." Paul isn't asking to be seen as a great leader but as a humble servant. He emphasizes that it's the Lord who judges us, not human courts or even ourselves.
Our culture is quick to judge and divide. But Paul reminds us that the ultimate judge is God, who will bring to light the things hidden in darkness and disclose the purposes of the heart. This perspective should humble us and make us less quick to judge others. Instead, we should focus on being faithful stewards of the gospel, knowing that our commendation comes from God, not man.
Gratitude: The Antidote to Arrogance
Paul goes on to challenge the Corinthians' arrogance by asking, "What do you have that you did not receive?" This question is a powerful reminder that everything we have is a gift from God. When we recognize this, it fosters a sense of gratitude rather than pride.
Imagine how different our interactions would be if we approached each other with humble gratitude. Instead of boasting about our achievements or possessions, we would acknowledge that all we have is by God's grace. This attitude not only humbles us but also unites us, as we all stand on equal footing before God.
The Importance of Being Teachable
Paul concludes by urging the Corinthians to be imitators of him, as he follows Christ. He sends Timothy to remind them of his ways in Christ, emphasizing the importance of being teachable. In a world where everyone seems to think they know best, being teachable is a rare and valuable trait.
Being teachable means being open to correction and willing to learn. It's about recognizing that we don't have all the answers and that we can grow through the wisdom and experiences of others. This humility makes us more approachable and fosters a sense of community and unity.
Action Steps
So, what does this mean for you? How can you apply these principles of humble judgment, gratitude, and teachability in your own life? Start by asking yourself these questions:
1. Evaluate Your Judgment: How often do you judge others based on your own standards rather than God's? Reflect on your interactions and consider how you can be more gracious and less judgmental.
2. Practice Gratitude: Do you recognize that everything you have is a gift from God, and do you express gratitude for it? Make it a daily habit to thank God for His blessings, big and small.
3. Be Teachable: Are you open to learning and being corrected, or do you think you know it all? Seek out opportunities for growth, whether through reading Scripture, attending Bible studies, or engaging in meaningful conversations with others.
4. Promote Unity: In your community, workplace, or family, look for ways to bring people together rather than divide. Share the message of Christ and Him crucified, emphasizing the common ground we have in Jesus.
5. Live Out the Gospel: Let the good news of Jesus Christ transform your life. As you focus on what He has done for you, allow it to humble you and shape your interactions with others.
Conclusion
The point is, Jesus wants your whole heart. What will you do this week to give it to Him? Will you choose to judge less and love more? Will you practice gratitude and acknowledge God's gifts in your life? Will you be open to learning and growing in your faith?
By embracing gospel humility, we can find unity in a divided world. Let's commit to being humble servants, grateful for God's blessings, and teachable in our walk with Christ. Together, we can make a difference and bring the light of the gospel to those around us.
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