1 Corinthians 1:10
Verse
Context
Unity in the Church
9God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.10I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction.11My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you.
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now I beseech you, brethren - The apostle having finished his introduction comes to his second point, exhorting them to abstain from dissensions, that they might be of the same heart and mind, striving together for the hope of the Gospel. By the name of our Lord Jesus - By his authority, and in his place; and on account of your infinite obligations to his mercy in calling you into such a state of salvation. That ye all speak the same thing - If they did not agree exactly in opinion on every subject, they might, notwithstanding, agree in the words which they used to express their religious faith. The members of the Church of God should labor to be of the same mind, and to speak the same thing, in order to prevent divisions, which always hinder the work of God. On every essential doctrine of the Gospel all genuine Christians agree: why then need religious communion be interrupted? This general agreement is all that the apostle can have in view; for it cannot be expected that any number of men should in every respect perfectly coincide in their views of all the minor points, on which an exact conformity in sentiment is impossible to minds so variously constituted as those of the human race. Angels may thus agree, who see nothing through an imperfect or false medium; but to man this is impossible. Therefore men should bear with each other, and not be so ready to imagine that none have the truth of God but they and their party.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now--Ye already have knowledge, utterance, and hope, maintain also love. brethren--The very title is an argument for love. by . . . Christ--whom Paul wishes to be all in all to the Corinthians, and therefore names Him so often in this chapter. speak . . . same thing--not speaking different things as ye do (Co1 1:12), in a spirit of variance. divisions--literally, "splits," "breaches." but--"but rather." perfectly joined together--the opposite word to "divisions." It is applied to healing a wound, or making whole a rent. mind . . . judgment--the view taken by the understanding, and the practical decision arrived at [CONYBEARE and HOWSON], as to what is to be done. The mind, within, refers to things to be believed: the judgment is displayed outwardly in things to be done [BENGEL]. Disposition--opinion [ALFORD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now I beseech you, brethren,.... The apostle having observed the many favours and blessings bestowed on this church, proceeds to take notice of the divisions and contentions which were fomented in it; and in the most kind and tender manner entreats them to take every proper step to prevent schisms among them: he does not use his apostolical power and authority, or lay his injunctions and commands upon them, which he might have done, but most affectionately beseeches them; styling them brethren, as they were in a spiritual relation, being children of the same Father, members of the same body, and partakers of the same grace, and is a reason why they should not fail out by the way: and this obsecration is made by the name of the Lord Jesus; which he wisely judged must have its weight and influence on many of them, to whom that name must be dear and precious, and which they called upon and were called by; and shows, that he was not acting in his own name, and seeking his own profit; but was concerned in and for the name of Christ, and for his honour and interest, which lay at stake by their contentions. His earnest request to them is, that ye speak the same thing; profess the same truths, and express them in the same words; which shows the lawfulness, yea, necessity and usefulness, of confessions and articles of faith, being made and agreed to by members of churches; and which should be drawn up in a form of sound words, and abode by; for the introducing of new words and phrases is often the means of bringing in new doctrines, and of raising great contentions and animosities; wherefore using the same words to express truth by is a very proper and prudent expedient to prevent them: and that there be no divisions, or schisms among you; which are generally made by innovations in doctrine, or worship; by forming new schemes of religion, new articles of faith, and modes of discipline: but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind, and in the same judgment; which regards not only the sameness of love and affection, to one another, being, as the first Christians were, of one heart and of one soul; but their agreement in their judgments and sentiments, of both doctrine and discipline; and such an entire harmony and symmetry among them, as in the members of the body, where each member and bone being in their proper place, exactly answer to, and tally with each other; and which is the most effectual way to speak the same things, and so bar against all schisms and divisions; and such an agreement is absolutely necessary to the peace, comfort, and well being of a church; for how should "two", and much less more, "walk together", unless they are "agreed?" Amo 3:3.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here the apostle enters on his subject. I. He extorts them to unity and brotherly love, and reproves them for their divisions. He had received an account from some that wished them well of some unhappy differences among them. It was neither ill-will to the church, nor to their ministers, that prompted them to give this account; but a kind and prudent concern to have these heats qualified by Paul's interposition. He writes to them in a very engaging way: "I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; if you have any regard to that dear and worthy name by which you are called, be unanimous. Speak all the same thing; avoid divisions or schisms" (as the original is), "that is, all alienation of affection from each other. Be perfectly joined together in the same mind, as far as you can. In the great things of religion be of a mind: but, when there is not a unity of sentiment, let there be a union of affections. The consideration of being agreed in greater things should extinguish all feuds and divisions about minor ones." II. He hints at the origin of these contentions. Pride lay at the bottom, and this made them factious. Only of pride cometh contention, Pro 13:10. They quarrelled about their ministers. Paul and Apollos were both faithful ministers of Jesus Christ, and helpers of their faith and joy: but those who were disposed to be contentious broke into parties, and set their ministers at the head of their several factions: some cried up Paul, perhaps as the most sublime and spiritual teacher; others cried up Apollos, perhaps as the most eloquent speaker; some Cephas, or Peter, perhaps for the authority of his age, or because he was the apostle of the circumcision; and some were for none of them, but Christ only. So liable are the best things in the world to be corrupted, and the gospel and its institutions, which are at perfect harmony with themselves and one another, to be made the engines of variance, discord, and contention. This is no reproach to our religion, but a very melancholy evidence of the corruption and depravity of human nature. Note, How far will pride carry Christians in opposition to one another! Even so far as to set Christ and his own apostles at variance, and make them rivals and competitors. III. He expostulates with them upon their discord and quarrels: "Is Christ divided? No, there is but one Christ, and therefore Christians should be on one heart. Was Paul crucified for you? Was he your sacrifice and atonement? Did I ever pretend to be your saviour, or any more than his minister? Or, were you baptized in the name of Paul? Were you devoted to my service, or engaged to be my disciples, by that sacred rite? Did I challenge that right in you, or dependence from you, which is the proper claim of your God and Redeemer?" No; ministers, however instrumental they are of good to us, are not to be put in Christ's stead. They are not to usurp Christ's authority, nor encourage any thing in the people that looks like transferring his authority to them. He is our Saviour and sacrifice, he is our Lord and guide. And happy were it for the churches if there were no name of distinction among them, as Christ is not divided.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:10–15:58 The body of the letter is devoted to Paul’s advice on specific problems and questions that had arisen in the Corinthian church. 1:10-17 The Corinthian believers were arguing over which of the leading evangelists (Paul, Apollos, Peter) was best. Paul rebukes them for their quarreling and worldly comparisons. As a minister of Christ and the Good News, he and the others are all channels through whom God works (see 3:1–4:7). 1:10 dear brothers and sisters: Literally brothers. This generic, traditional term of affection is used to address members of the same family, both male and female. • I appeal to you: Paul motivates them by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, not by his own authority. • authority (literally name): In Jewish thought, a person’s name carried the weight of the person’s authority and reputation. • Let there be no divisions: His desire was not simply that they avoid divisiveness, but that they be so filled with the Spirit of Christ that they would be of one mind, united in thought and purpose (cp. Phil 2:2).
1 Corinthians 1:10
Unity in the Church
9God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.10I appeal to you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree together, so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be united in mind and conviction.11My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
A Divided Heart
By C.H. Spurgeon17K41:19Spiritual UnityDividedDivided HeartPSA 86:11PRO 4:23HOS 10:2MAT 6:241CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2JAS 1:81JN 1:8C.H. Spurgeon addresses the issue of a divided heart, emphasizing that such a condition leads to spiritual faultiness both individually and within the church. He warns that a divided heart is a grievous disease that affects the whole person, causing unhappiness, inconsistency, and hypocrisy. Spurgeon illustrates that this division not only hinders personal faith but also weakens the church's collective strength against evil. He calls for unity of heart in serving God, urging listeners to examine their own hearts and seek true devotion. Ultimately, he offers hope for those with broken hearts, inviting them to trust in Christ for healing and salvation.
(Through the Bible) 1 Corinthians 1-2
By Chuck Smith2.7K1:17:58Through The Bible1CO 1:101CO 2:11CO 2:141CO 9:192CO 3:182PE 3:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of not lording over one another but serving one another in love. He introduces the concept of the natural man, the spiritual man, and the upcoming topic of the carnal man. The natural man is at a disadvantage because he cannot understand or receive the things of the Spirit. However, the preacher emphasizes that God reveals these spiritual things to those who love Him through the Holy Spirit. The sermon encourages listeners to allow God to work in their lives and grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.
(1 Corinthians) Overview to Chapter 3
By Brian Brodersen1.7K54:111CO 1:10In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of division and contention among the believers in the church. He emphasizes the importance of unity and encourages the congregation to speak the same things and be perfectly joined together in the same mind and judgment. The speaker also warns against seeking acceptance and approval from the world, as this is based on pride and goes against the purpose of glorifying God. He urges the believers to move beyond the foundational teachings of the gospel and to apply the teachings of Jesus and the apostles in their lives in order to grow and be conformed into the image of Christ.
Divisions
By Chuck Smith1.6K41:17DivisionsPRO 6:161CO 1:10GAL 2:5In this sermon, the speaker shares an anecdote about encountering a group of individuals who were causing division within a gathering of young people. He emphasizes the danger and displeasure that God has towards those who sow discord among brethren. Quoting from Proverbs 6:16-19, the speaker highlights the seven things that the Lord hates, including those who sow discord. The sermon concludes with a call for unity among believers and a warning against those who bring division into the body of Christ.
Anabaptist History (Day 15) the Munster Tragedy and Melchior Hoffman
By Dean Taylor1.6K1:29:04PRO 3:5MAT 26:391CO 1:10GAL 1:8EPH 6:17COL 2:82TI 3:161JN 4:1This sermon provides a historical overview of the Dutch Mennonites, highlighting the challenges and influences faced by different groups of people in various regions. It emphasizes the importance of judging beliefs and revelations using the Word of God to contend for the faith delivered to the saints. The sermon also delves into the tragic events involving Jan Matthias and Jan van Luyden, showcasing the consequences of straying from biblical truths and relying on personal revelations.
Anabaptist History (Day 13) the Birth of the Hutterites-Part 1
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:24:18PRO 4:7MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 1:101CO 13:4GAL 6:2HEB 13:17JAS 1:191PE 4:12This sermon delves into the history of the Hutterites, tracing their origins from the Moravian Anabaptists and the zeal that characterized their faith. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and spirit behind historical events and scriptures, cautioning against misinterpretation from isolated quotes or verses. The narrative includes conflicts over beliefs within the community, showcasing the challenges faced by early leaders like Wilhelm Rublin. Additionally, a poignant story is shared about a leader returning to find his community vanished, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles endured by the Hutterites as depicted in the Chronicles and Martyr's Mirror.
Prayer and Unity in Revival
By Bill McLeod1.3K52:46Revival PrayingPSA 133:1ACT 1:14ACT 5:12ROM 15:51CO 1:102CO 13:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a heart that is open to others, regardless of their background or circumstances. He shares a story about a Christian man who never explicitly explained the way of salvation, but through his actions and kindness, he led someone to accept Jesus as their Savior. The speaker also highlights the need to be patient and faithful in sowing seeds of the Gospel, even when there seems to be no immediate results. He encourages listeners to receive and accept one another, just as Paul did, and to treat every person as a child of God.
Corinthians: Christ the Foundation
By Stephen Kaung9991:19:32MAT 6:33ROM 12:51CO 1:101CO 3:11CO 3:16EPH 4:41JN 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the destructive nature of divisions among God's people in the church. He highlights how the Corinthians believers were more interested in various topics like marriage, spiritual gifts, and idols, rather than addressing the issue of divisions. The speaker points out that Paul extensively addresses this problem in the first four chapters of Corinthians, emphasizing the seriousness and importance of unity among believers. He also reminds the audience that everything in life, including adversity and prosperity, is meant for the building of the church and should be seen as part of God's work.
Corinthians: Christian Conduct
By Stephen Kaung9971:04:24ISA 64:6MAT 6:331CO 1:101CO 6:71CO 6:121CO 10:231CO 10:31In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of understanding our position as believers in Christ. He emphasizes that we are free from the bondage of the law and have been saved by grace. However, he warns against abusing this freedom and causing division among fellow believers. The preacher encourages practicing four principles in our daily conduct: knowing our position, living in love, relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, and glorifying God in our bodies. He reminds us that we are called to be witnesses and testimonies to the Lord, and that our actions should reflect this.
Church - Part 3
By Ken Baird92353:20JHN 10:161CO 1:31CO 1:101CO 3:51CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the simplicity of being a New Testament church. He encourages the audience to focus on the Lord Jesus and not get caught up in the complexities of organizing a church. The preacher reminds the listeners that when two or three are gathered in the name of Jesus, He is present among them. He also urges the congregation to approach church fellowship with faith and not judge others based on their gifts or abilities.
Truth and Error - Part 2 - Truth and Error (Compilation)
By Compilations83420:51CompilationMAT 6:24ROM 8:11CO 1:10EPH 2:141TI 4:1HEB 11:61JN 2:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not loving the world or its desires. He references the Israelites in the wilderness who constantly lusted after worldly things and were dissatisfied. The preacher warns against being led by the flesh and sinful nature, as it leads to restlessness and separation from God. He also highlights the danger of departing from the faith and being deceived by false spirits. The sermon concludes with a call to love Jesus wholeheartedly and to be cautious of having a divided heart between God and the world.
Send the Message - Session 6
By K.P. Yohannan7701:01:58MissionsMAT 6:33MAT 16:24ROM 12:101CO 1:101JN 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a genuine relationship with Jesus and living a life of love. He expresses doubt about someone's salvation if they claim to be born again but show no concern for those who do not know Jesus. The speaker highlights the significance of missions and the impact that can be made through the grace of God. He encourages believers to deny themselves, carry their cross, and follow Jesus' example of saying no to their own desires in order to fulfill God's call.
Hindrances to Spiritual Growth
By Shane Idleman58251:36PRO 28:14MAT 11:28ACT 2:46ACT 3:6ACT 3:16ACT 4:121CO 1:101CO 16:12CO 8:13This sermon focuses on hindrances to spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of unity, forgiveness, and looking to Jesus for salvation, spiritual growth, and rest. It highlights the need to address distractions, excess, disunity, and lack of surrender to God in order to experience true growth and transformation.
5 - Philadelphians
By Ignatius of Antioch47809:48Audio Books1CO 1:101CO 10:171CO 11:11CO 11:181CO 11:25EPH 4:3EPH 5:1The sermon transcripts highlight the importance of unity and adherence to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The bishop is praised for his virtuous and calm temperament, which is seen as a reflection of his love for God and Jesus Christ. The transcripts emphasize the need to avoid division and false doctrines, and to follow the shepherd, who represents the unity of the church. The importance of the Eucharist is also emphasized as a symbol of unity and communion with Jesus Christ.
Lesser Known Characters 03 Epaphras-Man of Prayer
By Joseph Balsan40453:52RUT 2:4PSA 119:111CO 1:10EPH 4:2COL 3:23COL 4:121TH 5:28In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of standing in one's place and being committed to prayer. He uses the story of Gideon and his army to illustrate this point. Gideon's men stood in their places, holding their trumpets, torches, and broken pitchers, and when they followed Gideon's signal, the enemy was routed. The speaker also shares the example of George Miller, a man of great faith who relied on prayer to provide for the needs of thousands of people. He concludes by highlighting the significance of prayer as a vital and powerful act of service to God.
Servant to All
By Thaddeus Barnum18227:40ServanthoodMAT 6:33JHN 14:8ROM 12:101CO 1:101CO 3:11CO 9:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God's Spirit and the need for believers to rise up and take the world by force. He emphasizes the importance of compassion, mercy, and love, and encourages the congregation to go out and love others. The preacher shares a personal story about his father's final moments and how it reminded him of the calling to serve others. He then delves into the passage from 1 Corinthians 9, highlighting the contrast between the self-centeredness of the world and the selflessness of the kingdom of God. The preacher urges the congregation to reject the worldly principle of "me" and instead embrace the servant-hearted nature of Jesus.
Self-Examination
By Ernest C. Reisinger5858:06Christian Life1CO 1:101CO 3:31CO 6:11CO 7:21CO 11:21CO 11:282CO 13:52PE 1:10In this sermon, the speaker begins by reflecting on the uniqueness and special qualities of the people he sees passing by. He then discusses the importance of approaching the Bible with three key questions: what does it say, what does it mean, and what is its purpose. The speaker emphasizes the need to examine oneself and make one's calling and election sure, stating that it is possible to know one's spiritual state. He provides directions for this duty, highlighting the dangers of complacency and the consequences of neglecting diligence in spiritual matters.
Forgiven and Crucified
By Phil Beach Jr.281:14:33The CrossForgivenessIdentity in Christ1CO 1:10GAL 2:20PHP 3:8Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the profound truth that while believers are forgiven through Christ, they must also recognize their identity as crucified with Him. He highlights the struggles of the Corinthian church, which, despite their knowledge of grace, faced divisions due to a lack of understanding of the cross's full implications. Beach calls for a deeper revelation of being crucified with Christ, urging believers to let go of self and allow Christ to live through them. He stresses that true unity and spiritual maturity in the church can only be achieved when individuals embrace their crucified identity and live by the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the message is about surrendering the self-life to experience the fullness of Christ in our lives.
Building the House of God - Part 1
By Phil Beach Jr.251:16:02Teamwork in MinistryChurchUnity in the Body of ChristROM 12:41CO 1:101CO 3:61CO 12:12GAL 6:2EPH 4:16PHP 2:3COL 3:14HEB 10:241PE 4:10Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the importance of teamwork in the building of God's house, illustrating that no individual can outshine another in the body of Christ. He shares a personal story about his son playing soccer to highlight that every member has a vital role, and the success of the team depends on collective contributions rather than individual accolades. Beach warns against the dangers of pride and division within the church, urging believers to recognize their interconnectedness and the necessity of each member's contribution to fulfill God's purpose. He calls for a deeper understanding of God's overarching plan and the need for humility and unity among believers.
A Desperate Plea for Unity
By Shane Idleman1348:38Unity in the ChurchOvercoming DivisionPRO 6:16MAT 5:9JHN 17:21ROM 12:101CO 1:10GAL 5:15EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:141PE 3:8Shane Idleman passionately addresses the urgent need for unity within the church, drawing from the teachings of 1 Corinthians. He emphasizes that believers, while called to be saints, often struggle with sin and disunity, which can hinder the work of God. Idleman warns against the divisive nature of arguments and debates over non-essential issues, urging the congregation to focus on the essentials of faith and to fight for unity. He highlights that true unity is not about uniformity in opinion but about being united in purpose and love for Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to examine our hearts and attitudes, especially regarding how we treat one another within the body of Christ.
The Lord's Coming and Revival
By Peter Brandon544:21EvangelismSpiritual ReadinessMAT 4:19MAT 11:28MRK 1:17LUK 10:2JHN 4:35ROM 10:131CO 1:10GAL 6:11TH 3:101TH 5:2Peter Brandon emphasizes the urgency of spiritual readiness for the imminent return of Christ, urging believers to prepare for a revival and an ingathering of souls. He draws from the book of Thessalonians to highlight the importance of repentance and the call to evangelism, using the example of Jesus calling His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. Brandon stresses that God seeks those who are diligent in their work and ready to follow Him, illustrating the need for both public and private evangelism. He encourages the congregation to be active in their faith and to bring others to Christ, especially in light of the current spiritual climate. The sermon concludes with a call to be spiritually and morally prepared for the Lord's return.
Homily on First Corinthians (Argument)
By St. John Chrysostom0ACT 18:101CO 1:101CO 5:11CO 6:11CO 11:17John Chrysostom preaches about the city of Corinth, known for its wealth, wisdom, and division among its people. He highlights the challenges faced by Paul and Christ in this city, including the presence of false leaders, immoral behaviors, and conflicts within the church. Chrysostom emphasizes the importance of addressing pride, divisions, and false teachings that were causing chaos and distractions in the Corinthian church. He points out various sins and issues such as arrogance, immorality, disputes over money, and lack of unity in the church, urging the congregation to repent and return to true faith and unity in Christ.
An Address to the Different Religious Societies on the Sacred Import of the Christian Name
By Rice Haggard0ISA 48:11ISA 62:2JHN 10:16JHN 17:11ACT 10:341CO 1:101CO 13:4EPH 4:3REV 21:9REV 22:18Rice Haggard preaches about the importance of unity and love among Christians, emphasizing the need to set aside denominational divisions and come together under the simple principles of the Gospel. He highlights the dangers of partyism, human inventions, and man-made rules that have led to division and strife within the church. Haggard calls for a return to the original teachings of Jesus Christ, promoting a church united in faith, love, and adherence to the Scriptures.
The General Conference of 1828
By Nathan Bangs0PRO 6:161CO 1:10EPH 4:3PHP 2:2COL 3:14Nathan Bangs preaches about the challenges faced by the Methodist Episcopal Church in dealing with internal dissension and calls for unity and adherence to the established principles of the Church. The conference in Pittsburgh in 1828 addressed issues such as lay representation, freedom of speech, and the preservation of the itinerant system. The conference highlighted the importance of maintaining unity, upholding the itinerant ministry, and resisting calls for radical changes that could jeopardize the core principles of Methodism.
The Dissenter's Reasons for Separating From the Church of England.
By John Gill0True Church vs. Established ChurchSeparation from the ChurchMAT 28:19ACT 2:42ROM 12:21CO 1:10GAL 1:8EPH 4:41TI 3:152TI 4:2HEB 10:251PE 2:9John Gill addresses the reasons for the Dissenters' separation from the Church of England, emphasizing that their decision is rooted in conscience rather than contention. He critiques the Church's human constitution, national form, and the corrupt doctrine preached, arguing that true churches should be congregational and consist of faithful believers. Gill also highlights issues with the administration of sacraments, the lack of biblical governance, and the Church's historical persecution of dissenters. He asserts that the Church of England fails to meet the biblical standards for a true church, leading to their justified dissent.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Now I beseech you, brethren - The apostle having finished his introduction comes to his second point, exhorting them to abstain from dissensions, that they might be of the same heart and mind, striving together for the hope of the Gospel. By the name of our Lord Jesus - By his authority, and in his place; and on account of your infinite obligations to his mercy in calling you into such a state of salvation. That ye all speak the same thing - If they did not agree exactly in opinion on every subject, they might, notwithstanding, agree in the words which they used to express their religious faith. The members of the Church of God should labor to be of the same mind, and to speak the same thing, in order to prevent divisions, which always hinder the work of God. On every essential doctrine of the Gospel all genuine Christians agree: why then need religious communion be interrupted? This general agreement is all that the apostle can have in view; for it cannot be expected that any number of men should in every respect perfectly coincide in their views of all the minor points, on which an exact conformity in sentiment is impossible to minds so variously constituted as those of the human race. Angels may thus agree, who see nothing through an imperfect or false medium; but to man this is impossible. Therefore men should bear with each other, and not be so ready to imagine that none have the truth of God but they and their party.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Now--Ye already have knowledge, utterance, and hope, maintain also love. brethren--The very title is an argument for love. by . . . Christ--whom Paul wishes to be all in all to the Corinthians, and therefore names Him so often in this chapter. speak . . . same thing--not speaking different things as ye do (Co1 1:12), in a spirit of variance. divisions--literally, "splits," "breaches." but--"but rather." perfectly joined together--the opposite word to "divisions." It is applied to healing a wound, or making whole a rent. mind . . . judgment--the view taken by the understanding, and the practical decision arrived at [CONYBEARE and HOWSON], as to what is to be done. The mind, within, refers to things to be believed: the judgment is displayed outwardly in things to be done [BENGEL]. Disposition--opinion [ALFORD].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now I beseech you, brethren,.... The apostle having observed the many favours and blessings bestowed on this church, proceeds to take notice of the divisions and contentions which were fomented in it; and in the most kind and tender manner entreats them to take every proper step to prevent schisms among them: he does not use his apostolical power and authority, or lay his injunctions and commands upon them, which he might have done, but most affectionately beseeches them; styling them brethren, as they were in a spiritual relation, being children of the same Father, members of the same body, and partakers of the same grace, and is a reason why they should not fail out by the way: and this obsecration is made by the name of the Lord Jesus; which he wisely judged must have its weight and influence on many of them, to whom that name must be dear and precious, and which they called upon and were called by; and shows, that he was not acting in his own name, and seeking his own profit; but was concerned in and for the name of Christ, and for his honour and interest, which lay at stake by their contentions. His earnest request to them is, that ye speak the same thing; profess the same truths, and express them in the same words; which shows the lawfulness, yea, necessity and usefulness, of confessions and articles of faith, being made and agreed to by members of churches; and which should be drawn up in a form of sound words, and abode by; for the introducing of new words and phrases is often the means of bringing in new doctrines, and of raising great contentions and animosities; wherefore using the same words to express truth by is a very proper and prudent expedient to prevent them: and that there be no divisions, or schisms among you; which are generally made by innovations in doctrine, or worship; by forming new schemes of religion, new articles of faith, and modes of discipline: but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind, and in the same judgment; which regards not only the sameness of love and affection, to one another, being, as the first Christians were, of one heart and of one soul; but their agreement in their judgments and sentiments, of both doctrine and discipline; and such an entire harmony and symmetry among them, as in the members of the body, where each member and bone being in their proper place, exactly answer to, and tally with each other; and which is the most effectual way to speak the same things, and so bar against all schisms and divisions; and such an agreement is absolutely necessary to the peace, comfort, and well being of a church; for how should "two", and much less more, "walk together", unless they are "agreed?" Amo 3:3.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here the apostle enters on his subject. I. He extorts them to unity and brotherly love, and reproves them for their divisions. He had received an account from some that wished them well of some unhappy differences among them. It was neither ill-will to the church, nor to their ministers, that prompted them to give this account; but a kind and prudent concern to have these heats qualified by Paul's interposition. He writes to them in a very engaging way: "I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; if you have any regard to that dear and worthy name by which you are called, be unanimous. Speak all the same thing; avoid divisions or schisms" (as the original is), "that is, all alienation of affection from each other. Be perfectly joined together in the same mind, as far as you can. In the great things of religion be of a mind: but, when there is not a unity of sentiment, let there be a union of affections. The consideration of being agreed in greater things should extinguish all feuds and divisions about minor ones." II. He hints at the origin of these contentions. Pride lay at the bottom, and this made them factious. Only of pride cometh contention, Pro 13:10. They quarrelled about their ministers. Paul and Apollos were both faithful ministers of Jesus Christ, and helpers of their faith and joy: but those who were disposed to be contentious broke into parties, and set their ministers at the head of their several factions: some cried up Paul, perhaps as the most sublime and spiritual teacher; others cried up Apollos, perhaps as the most eloquent speaker; some Cephas, or Peter, perhaps for the authority of his age, or because he was the apostle of the circumcision; and some were for none of them, but Christ only. So liable are the best things in the world to be corrupted, and the gospel and its institutions, which are at perfect harmony with themselves and one another, to be made the engines of variance, discord, and contention. This is no reproach to our religion, but a very melancholy evidence of the corruption and depravity of human nature. Note, How far will pride carry Christians in opposition to one another! Even so far as to set Christ and his own apostles at variance, and make them rivals and competitors. III. He expostulates with them upon their discord and quarrels: "Is Christ divided? No, there is but one Christ, and therefore Christians should be on one heart. Was Paul crucified for you? Was he your sacrifice and atonement? Did I ever pretend to be your saviour, or any more than his minister? Or, were you baptized in the name of Paul? Were you devoted to my service, or engaged to be my disciples, by that sacred rite? Did I challenge that right in you, or dependence from you, which is the proper claim of your God and Redeemer?" No; ministers, however instrumental they are of good to us, are not to be put in Christ's stead. They are not to usurp Christ's authority, nor encourage any thing in the people that looks like transferring his authority to them. He is our Saviour and sacrifice, he is our Lord and guide. And happy were it for the churches if there were no name of distinction among them, as Christ is not divided.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:10–15:58 The body of the letter is devoted to Paul’s advice on specific problems and questions that had arisen in the Corinthian church. 1:10-17 The Corinthian believers were arguing over which of the leading evangelists (Paul, Apollos, Peter) was best. Paul rebukes them for their quarreling and worldly comparisons. As a minister of Christ and the Good News, he and the others are all channels through whom God works (see 3:1–4:7). 1:10 dear brothers and sisters: Literally brothers. This generic, traditional term of affection is used to address members of the same family, both male and female. • I appeal to you: Paul motivates them by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, not by his own authority. • authority (literally name): In Jewish thought, a person’s name carried the weight of the person’s authority and reputation. • Let there be no divisions: His desire was not simply that they avoid divisiveness, but that they be so filled with the Spirit of Christ that they would be of one mind, united in thought and purpose (cp. Phil 2:2).