01/27/2021 ONE BODY; MANY PARTS Part I
I Corinthians 12: 1. The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with CHRIST. For we were all baptized by one SPIRIT into one body…. [New International translation]
Scripture Discussed
Most scholars agree that 1 Corinthians is one of Paul’s letters (i.e., epistles) to the church in Corinth. It is written to Sosthenes, whose name in Greek means “Safe in Strength.” (1 Corinthians 1:1) Sosthenes was the chief ruler of the synagogue in Corinth. He was a believer. (Act 18:17) Paul considered Sosthenes a brother.
1 Corinthians 12:1 discusses an often-used analogy in the New Testament. The church is described as “the body” and CHRIST as “the head.” Believers are “the members” of the body. Just as the vine has many members or branches, so it is with “the body of CHRIST,” “the church.” CHRIST is the “THE TRUE VINE” (John 15). HE gives life to the church. Like a vine bringing together many branches, (i.e., the individual members of the church), we achieve this unity in CHRIST when we have a CHRIST-like mind and spirit (e.g., a CHRIST-like love, a CHRIST-like sympathy, a CHRIST-like humility, a CHRIST-like willingness to be kind to others despite unkind treatment from others when doing good).
Some of the scripture that discusses this “same mindedness” as CHRIST and unity include the following:
1 Peter 3:8
And now this word to all of you: You should be like one big happy family, full of sympathy toward each other, loving one another with tender hearts and humble minds. [Living Bible translation]
Philippians 2:2-5
[M]ake my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of CHRIST JESUS. [New International translation]
Colossians 3:14
Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony. [Living Bible translation]