Topic: Focus on Christ
Bible Reading: Psalm 112-115; 1 Corinthians 1
Memory Verse: ”Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” 1 Corinthians 1:13 (KJV)
There are over 45,000 Christian denominations in the world and one wonders what is fueling such a huge split for a faith that has love, long suffering and self control amongst others as the hallmark of the believers. Though this has been happening since the beginning of Christiandom as noticed in some writings of Paul. However the word of God sent to the Corinthians then showed the centrality of Christ! 1 Corinthians 1:13 (KJV) says, “Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?”
In Nigeria there are so many denominations and they are increasing continuously but what is critical is that any true Christian denomination will have Christ as its central figure. All Christians should therefore focus more on their faith and less on denominations. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, Christ is not divided and so believers should run away from what divides us as Christians and focus on our Lord and Saviour. Unfortunately, discriminate increase in denominations is fueled more by greed, desire for power and money amongst other unworthy reasons. Meanwhile the Bible says in 1 Corinthians 1:24 (KJV), “But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.” So irrespective of race, all true Christians follow the Lord Jesus Christ. Why then do you emphasize your denomination instead of focusing on the word of God irrespective of who preaches it as long as it is undiluted.
The problem with a number of Christians is their unwillingness to study the Bible themselves so that they can know when anybody is preaching outside the word! It is high time you all behaved like the Berean Christians who go to check their bible to confirm words preached to them were in conformity. ( Acts 17:11 KJV). This way, you will not elevate anybody above human level as some Christians have done to their General Overseers! This is a very serious offence with God because He does not share his glory with anyone.
The biblical way to evaluate all messages you hear about God is to check its compliance with the word of God and not because it is spoken by a reverred pastor. No man is infallible; we are all standing by the grace of God! So please study your Bible regularly so that you can always ensure you take quality spiritual food.
Action Point:
Focus less on your denomination and lay emphasis on the word of God based on the Bible.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero