The Christians in the city of Corinth divided into factions (1 Corinthians 1:11-12), sued each other (1 Corinthians 6:7-8), abused the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:20-22)—some even denied the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:12). Yet Paul sent THEM this lyrical description of the “new creation” God was bringing into being through Christ’s saving work! God’s grace was day-by-day growing them into a new kind of community. Seeing themselves in that light reshaped their inner identity, and the attitudes with which they lived.

• Paul believed that on the Cross sinful humanity had, at least in principle, been destroyed and that ‘in Christ’ a new humanity was being created … Sin, of course, was still present in the world and the forces of evil were powerful, but Paul had seen in … Christ’s death and resurrection a clue about the end, and this gave him great confidence.” In what ways do you see God’s creative power at work in your life, and that of other believers? How, with sin still present in the world, did Paul maintain his faith that God was creating a new and better life?
• Every person, even an avowed atheist, has some type of relationship with God. Sadly, many of those relationships are fearful or untrusting. Paul said God calls each one of us to be an ambassador, sharing the message, “Be reconciled to God!” In your sphere, what are some engaging, creative ways you can share that appeal with others?