I once heard an older pastor say, “I am competitive. I would cheat you at the game of marbles if it helped me to win.” He did not seem to be joking. I suppose we are all competitive at some level, but spiritual maturity should help us to get over it.
One of the signs of immaturity in Corinth was the members’ penchant for comparing their spiritual leaders. Paul started the church, but Apollos followed him in ministry there. Each of them had good gifts, but they were very different. Paul wrote to correct those who “chose teams” and claimed to follow Paul, Apollos, or Peter. His humility instructs us when he asks and answers, “Who are we? Servants . . .” God’s servant Paul planted a seed. Then God’s servant Apollos watered it but only God could make it grow. The church remains God’s field, God’s building.
We commissioned Psalm 115:1 on the front of the fountain at Tallowood to remind us all, “Not to us, Lord, not to us, but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.” No one in heaven will say, “Look what I did.” We will be too busy worshiping the only One who gave his life to give us life. Worship Christ. He, alone, is worthy.
