TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7
Read: 1 Corinthians 3:5-9
Listen: 1 Corinthians 3
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Apollos travels to Achaia and eventually to Corinth after spending some time at Ephesus. Meanwhile, Paul travels to a variety of places and ends in Ephesus. Both teach extensively in Corinth and Ephesus.
It is easy to imagine people in those cities becoming attached to Paul or Apollos with tension rising between the two teachers and their followers. Yet, there is a lot of growth in both communities under both teachings. Who was responsible for that growth? Paul answered that question in a letter to the church in Corinth— it is uncommon humility. According to Paul, it was not himself or Apollos—but God (1 Corinthians 3:5-9). He says, “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.” Watch this video clip as Pastor Jeff Manion talks about this uncommon humility.
Even if we don’t travel from city to city preaching about Jesus, this is an essential lesson for each of us. We too are a part of the work God is doing when we serve in children’s ministry, lead our small group, point our kids or grandkids to Jesus or welcome people into our home. Our role is to cooperate with each other and with God, then watch as God brings growth. Doing these small things faithfully IS the big thing.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Take a few moments and memorize 1 Corinthians 3:6. May it remind you that we are responsible for doing our part, but the growth belongs to God.
NEW TESTAMENT READING PLAN
Join us this year as we read through the New Testament.
Today’s reading is 2 Thessalonians 2.
Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.
