Recent Discord
The Corinthian Church's discord is a shame to their Christian profession and brings danger upon themselves.
Clement of Rome addresses the Corinthians, reminding them of the early days of the Gospel when Paul wrote to them about unity and the dangers of forming factions. He rebukes them for allowing division and sedition to arise within the church, causing even those outside the faith to blaspheme the name of the Lord. Clement urges the Corinthians to repent of their actions and restore their renowned brotherly love to avoid bringing further disgrace to their Christian profession.
Text
Take up the epistle of the blessed Apostle Paul. What did he write to you at the time when the Gospel first began to be preached? Truly, under the inspiration of the Spirit, he wrote to you concerning himself, and Cephas, and Apollos, because even then parties had been formed among you. But that inclination for one above another entailed less guilt upon you, inasmuch as your partialities were then shown towards apostles, already of high reputation, and towards a man whom they had approved.
But now reflect who those are that have perverted you, and lessened the renown of your far-famed brotherly love. It is disgraceful, beloved, yea, highly disgraceful, and unworthy of your Christian profession, that such a thing should be heard of as that the most steadfast and ancient Church of the Corinthians should, on account of one or two persons, engage in sedition against its presbyters.
And this rumour has reached not only us, but those also who are unconnected with us; so that, through your infatuation, the name of the Lord is blasphemed, while danger is also brought upon yourselves.
Sermon Outline
- The Corinthian Church's Discord
- The Current State of Discord
- The Consequences of Discord
- The Name of the Lord is Blasphemed
- Danger Brought Upon the Corinthians
- Partialities Towards Apostles and Men
Key Quotes
“It is disgraceful, beloved, yea, highly disgraceful, and unworthy of your Christian profession, that such a thing should be heard of as that the most steadfast and ancient Church of the Corinthians should, on account of one or two persons, engage in sedition against its presbyters.” — Clement of Rome
“But now reflect who those are that have perverted you, and lessened the renown of your far-famed brotherly love.” — Clement of Rome
Application Points
- Recognize the parties and partialities that have formed among you and take steps to correct them.
- Reflect on who has perverted you and lessened the renown of your brotherly love, and take action against them.
- Avoid engaging in sedition against your presbyters and instead seek to maintain unity and brotherly love.