All in the Family

Many years ago, I received a very legal looking document from a lawyer in my home state of Wisconsin. The letter was to inform me that my uncle died and left me some money. I was an heir to part of his estate. While the amount was not large, just the idea that he considered me part of his family and decided to bless me with part of his wealth was a good feeling. 

Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. (v.27)

There is nothing quite like the feeling of belonging to something like a strong family, The good life often revolves around this sense of connection. When your closest family members are also connected to Christ, things are in line. We can struggle through pain, disappointment and various challenges when we share a bond of faith.

Family leans on one another. They rely on one another. Those of us in the family of God are wise do the same when things get rough. God cares and He will act on our behalf. It is our faith in God and our reliance on His provision that changes everything. It's a family thing. 

1 Corinthians 12:27-31   

Is There a Doctor in the House?

1 Corinthians 12:14 (NIV) Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. 

Paul is drawing a parallel between the human body the Body of Believers. He is using body parts to help us get a visual image of how diversified are own human bodies are. We are reminded of the complex differences while acknowledging the need for many of the work harmoniously with each other. When one part is hurting the entire body is affected in some manner.

The same is true within the Body of Believers. We come from many different backgrounds and lifestyles. We bring with us diverse thought, beliefs and expectations, and yet we know we must work together with healthy harmony to do God’s will.

1 Corinthians 12:27 (NIV) Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.
How can this work? Just like when something is physically wrong or out of alignment, we see a physician to find out the reason for our pain, or inability to perform as we should. The doctor will tell you what is wrong and prescribe treatment or medication.

When the Church Body is out of sync; working as though in pain, and struggling to accomplish necessary goals, it is time to take a look at the cause of the discord. When our differences begin to divide us it is time to look at what unites us; Jesus Christ.  Our faith in Jesus is the glue that holds us together when we feel separated from each other. This same faith will heal our differences and strengthen our bond to one another.

Jesus isn't known as the Great Healer for nothing. His healing, redeeming love, coupled with our faith is the prescription for a healthy church body.

1 Corinthians 12:12-27