Dear Church Family, As I’ve been reading through 1 Corinthians, it’s been sad to read about such a dysfunctional church. Not only is there division and sexual immorality, but in chapter six Paul confronts church members for bringing lawsuits against one another before secular judges. 1 Corinthians 6:1 (ESV)
When one of you has a grievance against another, does he dare go to law before the unrighteous instead of the saints?
Our love for one another is supposed to be one of the greatest witnesses to the world that we are Jesus’ disciples (John 13:34-35). Unfortunately, the way we treat one another can also be one of the greatest obstacles to others coming to Christ. There are two points Paul makes next that really stuck out to me as I read them. The first point is that there should be godly people in the church that can settle the matter: 1 Corinthians 6:5-6 (ESV)
I say this to your shame. Can it be that there is no one among you wise enough to settle a dispute between the brothers,6 but brother goes to law against brother, and that before unbelievers?
We need to make sure we handle disputes in a godly way. We need wise people in the body that we can take our disputes to. We also need to be willing to go to others with our disputes. This is where the body of Christ can show itself as something completely different than the world. The second thing that stuck out to me was Paul’s suggestion in verses seven and eight: 1 Corinthians 6:7-8 (ESV)
To have lawsuits at all with one another is already a defeat for you. Why not rather suffer wrong? Why not rather be defrauded? 8 But you yourselves wrong and defraud—even your own brothers!
There’s something more important than getting our way in a dispute. There’s even something more important than getting justice. Some of these people had been wronged and defrauded. They seem to think this gives them the right to themselves wrong and defraud. Instead, Paul calls on them to “turn the other cheek.” As sad as this chapter is, I also see this as an opportunity. Often the world sees the worst of believers. Instead, we have an opportunity, when conflict arises, to show the world something different. We can model the Gospel message in how we handle conflict. Let us shine brightly, even in times like this! What’s Happening at Gospel Life:Elder Training: The next elder training is scheduled for May 23rd at 7 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. Whether you’re interested in training towards Eldership or simply want to grow in your relationship with Christ, we would love to see you there. If you need a copy of the homework from last month, contact Pastor Dave. Communion: We will next be celebrating the Lord’s Supper together as part of our Sunday morning service on Sunday, May 28th. Through the ordinance of communion, we remember Jesus’ body that was broken and His blood that was shed for us. Youth Summer Kick-Off: We’re excited to be starting a weekly Youth Gathering (6-12th Grade) over the summer. We’ll start with a special kick-off on May 28th from 6-8:30 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. There will be swimming, yard games, dinner, and a Bible Study. Bring a modest swimsuit if you’re planning on swimming. Church Potluck: Join us for our next potluck lunch after the morning worship service on June 4th. Please bring one of your favorite dishes to share with the group. Prayer Night: Our next prayer night will be June 11th at 6 pm at the Bronleewes’ house. We have the privilege of bringing our needs before the Lord and praising Him for Who He is and what he has done for us. Summer VBS: We’re planning a Vacation Bible School for this summer at Columbia High School. Save the dates, July 9-13th, and start praying for God to use this event to reach kids with the Gospel. We’ll have more information soon. Request Prayer: It’s important for us to be praying for each other as a church! If you ever need prayer, we would love to come alongside you. You can always turn in a prayer request on Sundays using the Connection Card, but you can also submit a prayer request online at any time: https://gospellifebiblechurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/368653 Life Groups: Life Groups are an important way to connect and grow at Gospel Life. We have several exciting groups for men, women, or both. You can hear about some of these groups here: https://youtu.be/4GEoz7aeYTE?t=873 | 
