Church Theme for November 2020 - The Service of the Lord’s People

The theme for November is taken from 1 Corinthians 16: 15. It says, “They have devoted themselves to the service of the Lord’s people.”

The NIV translation has already been adjusted so that it is suitable and easy to understand for all denominations. However, a more fitting translation is found in the KJV and MEV.

You know the house of Stephanas, that it is the first fruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints. - 1 Corinthians 16:15 MEV

It is mentioned that this letter of Paul is addressed to the ministry of the saints. The question is, who are these saints? Are they apostles, martyrs, or holy people? 

In 2 Corinthians 1:1, Romans 1:7, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, and Colossians 1:2, Paul refers to the congregation as saints. But is it true that the people in Corinth were saints?

If we look at the profile of the congregation in Corinth, they were a divided church (because of favoritism), with many disputes, poor character (thinking themselves wise, arrogant), committing sexual immorality, even having shallow faith, and so on.

So, were they saints, sinners, or troublemakers?

Saints are not perfect people. They are people who are willing to follow the Lord, who can still sin.

So, ministry to the saints is:

1. Ministry to the Weak

2. Ministry to Sinners

If the congregation in Corinth is called saints, despite all their struggles, can we expect perfect conditions in our church today?

“A church is a hospital for sinners, not a museum for saints” - Abigail Van Buren

Then, how do we view and treat those who sin?

By gossiping about them? Looking down on them? Treating them differently? Or no longer giving them a chance to repent?

Every one of God’s people is among the saints. Even though they sin, they still have the opportunity to repent and be saved. This is the perspective we must have toward God’s people. Not judging one another, but striving together to become more like the Lord.