No Leader Was Crucified for You

The Corinthians were turning the names of Christian leaders into competing claims of belonging. Paul confronts this division by directing them to the cross: their teachers were not crucified for them, and their baptism did not place them under a teacher’s name. These questions expose how misplaced their loyalties had become. A minister may serve Christ faithfully, but no minister can occupy Christ’s place. Paul even refuses to treat the people he baptized as a personal following. His concern is not to erase the value of ministry; it is to prevent ministry from becoming a rival center of allegiance. For believers now, gratitude for a pastor or teacher must remain different from factional loyalty. The crucified Christ, not a favored personality, establishes our belonging. Returning to him challenges the pride that makes fellow Christians seem like members of an opposing team.

Put the Word into practice

Review one recent conversation or online comment about a Christian leader. If you used that leader’s name to belittle other believers, correct the statement and acknowledge your shared belonging to Christ.

Search the Scripture

How do Paul’s questions about crucifixion and baptism in 1 Corinthians 1:13 expose the problem with the Corinthians’ competing loyalties?

A prayerful response

Lord Jesus, you alone were crucified for me. Forgive me for using your servants as reasons to divide your people. Help me appreciate faithful teachers without giving them the allegiance that belongs to you. Form humility and unity in our congregation. Amen.