United by Grace Not by Virtue – April 1, 2019

Brothers and sisters, think of what you were when you were called. Not many of you were wise by human standards; not many were influential; not many were of noble birth. But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. God chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him. It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. Therefore, as it is written: “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.”
1 Corinthians 1:26-31

United by Grace Not by Virtue

A “dream team” is made up of highly skilled individuals who have earned a spot on the team. There have been many examples in sports. Each and every player was on that court or field because he or she deserved to be there. Can we say that as Christians we are on God’s dream team? Were we chosen to be members of God’s family because of some great value or virtue?

The congregation in Corinth struggled with factions, foolishly dividing themselves based on superficial differences. The apostle Paul reminded them of the perfect unity which was theirs as brothers and sisters in Christ through the message of the cross. But what led God to choose them for his family? Why does he choose us today?

The apostle asks us to reflect on the way we first came to faith in Jesus. When God called you, there was no mention of who you were or what you could offer. It had nothing to do with your status, intelligence, wealth, or influence. No, God’s call is a call of grace, undeserved love for sinners. That’s the one thing that “earns” us a spot at God’s table—we are all sinners in need of a Savior.

Thank God that Jesus Christ is that Savior!

Prayer:
Lord God, forgive my sinful pride and keep me humble by pointing me always to your perfect Servant Jesus Christ, my Savior. Amen.