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02/13/10
Speakers: |
Rev. Mary Bullis |
Can We Get Along?
When we read Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, we are literally reading someone else's mail. And, the Christians in Corinth would no doubt have preferred to keep this correspondence private, as the letter divulges all kinds of problems, divisions and conflicts within the church, and portrays them in a rather unflattering light. Fortunately for us, however, this letter was not only preserved but was placed in the canon of the New Testament.
We can learn so much from this letter. While some of the specific issues that Paul addresses seem dated or irrelevant, the conflicts, divisions and problems in interpersonal relationships are all too modern. Paul calls them out for acting inconsiderate, condescending, boastful and thoughtless. Personal freedoms, privileges and talents are never to be used at the expense of others, Paul says. Love trumps everything.
In this sermon series, we will see how Paul's deeply theological yet practical guidance to the Corinthian church, speaks to the very polarized views and divisive rhetoric of our times, as well as to the challenges of interpersonal relationships we all deal with. How can we better get along with each other? How can we be united in purpose and belief, yet respectful of each other's differences? How can we have more loving relationships within our own families? How can we heal divisions?
Invite a friend or relative or neighbor or co-worker to join you in worship, especially if it's someone who is struggling with difficult relationship issues. The series will culminate with Paul's eloquent chapter on love, which, approriately, will fall on February 14, Valentine's Day. Give a Valentine gift to yourself; come to worship.
