Sometimes we worry that an increase in the body of Christ is all up to us. What does this passage teach? That's our study for this morning.
1) WHO IS THE FOCUS OF THE MATURE CHRISTIAN? GOD!
A. It's carnal to follow men. They were spiritually immature -
Col 3: 1-2, they were carnal
B. They were babes in Christ - Heb 5: 12-14 Result? vs 4 , 10-13
C. In Corinth some had an improper estimation of preachers - Paul wrote to correct that
1. simply servants 1Cor 3:5, and should be regarded that way - 1 Cor 4:1
D. Note what Paul said in I Cor 3:9 - "Fellow workers with God"
2) WHAT IS GOD'S ROLE? HE PROVIDES THE OPPORTUNITY
A. He provides the opportunity 3:5, Also opens doors of opportunity to be of service,
16:9
B. There are those who are ready - Rev 3:8, Even though sometimes it's not used 2 Cor 2: 12-13
C. We might have different roles - 3:6a
D. We need to prepare ourselves to be useful to the Master 2 Tim 2: 20-21 BE READY!
E. There are those who are searching - they will find the Truth Mt 5:6, Mt 7: 7-11
3) WHO PROVIDES THE INCREASE? GOD
3: 6-7
A. Where is the power? In the SEED! There is great power in the Word Isa 55: 10-11; Heb 4:12
B. The Gospel of Christ - God's power to save Rom 1: 16-17
C. But what is an essential ingredient? The condition of the soil - Lk 8: 11-15
D. Key point - USE THE WORD OF GOD! Heb 4:12
E. What about our role? We throw the seeds and pour the water 3: 6-7
a. Sometimes seed throwers are used that aren't the best - Phil 1: 15-18
b. Look at Moses and even Paul! Exo 4: 10-12, 2 Cor 10:10
c. We need to stop making excuses! We need to stop "one-upsmanship" (?)
4) WHAT ABOUT THOSE WHO LABOR?
A. They will be rewarded
3:8
B. The more you sow, the more you reap Gal 6:7
C. What's the key? Building on the right foundation - Jesus Christ 3: 9-11
D. Sometimes the material we work with will vary in quality, only time will tell - 3:12-15
E. Look at Jeremiah - 1 Cor 15:58
Jesus showed great compassion for the lost, He encouraged to pray for those who labor, He sent His disciples throughout Israel, and later sent them throughout the world.
Mt 9: 35-38, 10:1, 28: 19-20
Let's do the same...