Growth

 1 Corinthians 3:7 ESV

 So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth. 


The Corinthian church was tempted to idolise Christian leaders. Christians to this day struggle with the same tendency. Some favoured Paul, or Apollos, or Peter.

The Apostle Paul rebuked the Corinthian church for their 'cult of personality' tendencies. More than sexual immorality, this divisiveness was the primary issue in that church. It's the first issue Paul addressed.

Paul sought to realign the Corinthians' priorities. He had planted God's word in their hearts; Apollos had watered it. Yet it was God who gave the increase.

A farmer doesn't pat himself on the back for the harvest. He's not passive- he still plants and waters. Yet he gives the Lord thanksgiving for the growth.

'God our Lord, we praise you for those who plant and water your word in our lives. We give you the glory for your work through them. Please forgive any idolatrous tendencies we may have. In Jesus' name, amen'.

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