27 So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup. 29 For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ eat and drink judgment on themselves.30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 31 But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. 32 Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world. 33 So then, my brothers and sisters, when you gather to eat, you should all eat together. 34 Anyone who is hungry should eat something at home,so that when you meet together it may not result in judgment.
This scripture feels exceptionally relevant to me this week. Disunity is the plague of the masses. When the body of Christ lacks discernment, people become sick. Faith or lack of faith has implications beyond individuals. When one man sins, the entire body suffers. Taylor University is battling a strong spirit of division. It reminds me of my last few weeks at the University of Evansville. UE held a unity service, but it failed to address the strong divisions on campus. Whenever, disunity finds its way into the body of Christ, people suffer physically and emotionally. I want better things for my friends, family, and churches. I believe some of my illness is directly correlated to disunity.
As a body, let's commit to honoring others higher than ourselves. Let's love each other beyond our fleeting opinions. Let's exult Christ, trusting Him as the Head. If everyone around you is suffering, overwhelmed, or broken...perhaps there is a demonic power who seeks to divide us. Don't give it permission. After the Lord's discipline, we will not be condemned. We will be saved and glorified and unified.
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