Central Truth

When counting our blessings, whether an Olympic gold medal, job achievements, or family members, we often think in a childish manner -  "I did it all by myself." However, we are not a "rock" or an "island". God has always used others in our lives.

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Reflections

Whenever I've done repair work, I dare not forget to "read the directions" and to "measure twice, so I only have to cut once." Paul has been explaining to the church at Corinth (and to us) that while they (we) are in the presence of many gifted individuals, we dare not lose sight of what we've been taught. What's most important are the lessons learned, not those who have taught us. The Corinthians had forgotten this, forming factions around different teachers: Paul, Peter, and Apollos. That's why Paul admonished them "not to go beyond what was written," i.e. beyond the scriptures and Paul's teaching/letters. 

Earlier, Paul's metaphors of agriculture, building and stewardship provided a more complete understanding of Christian growth and maturity. It's easy to forget where we came from and who contributed to our lives, especially as we grow older. Those who have encouraged and challenged me in my Christian life include a fraternity brother at Cal, many present and former Campus Crusade staff members, seminary professors, pastors, friends and some of you reading this. Someone plants, another builds - but it's God who gives the growth.  

That's what Paul refers to when he notes, "What do you have that you haven't received?" And once we've received it, it's all about "passing it on." When you think about it, we're Christians today because of the faithfulness of millions of unknown others who did just that. 

Last year SMU campus ministries hosted the first Veritas Forum at the university. I took the first step to encourage SMU campus ministries and Christian students but THEY made it happen--it was always about "us". Growing up listening to UCLA basketball on the radio and watching in college as Coach John Wooden's Bruins ran over Cal, my alma mater, one thing was clear, the Bruins knew the "game" was about T-E-A-M. Our "team," even the body of Christ, is about all of us.  Continuing to "read the directions" and remembering we have nothing we didn't receive is an important part of our "play book."

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Discussion Questions

1.  Who are some of the people who have influenced your Christian life?

2.  What are some of the things you "have received" from others that have contributed to your Christian growth?

3.  Do they know this?

4.  If not, why not tell them and thank them. Pick up the phone, write them a letter (yes, it's still done), or text or email them and let them know just how thankful you are for their contribution to your life and to your Christian growth.

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