Our scripture this morning is 1 Corinthians 1:3-9.
Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge— God thus confirming our testimony about Christ among you. Therefore you do not lack any spiritual gift as you eagerly wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed. He will also keep you firm to the end, so that you will be blameless on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Paul wrote to many churches he had helped plant to continue to guide and strengthen them. He taught that while accepting Jesus as Lord was essential, it is just as essential to continue in the path He set for us. We must allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives every day.
Paul knew that hearing the Good News was just the beginning of a life in Christ. Coming to faith is not a one-time event but a lifelong process of loving God and each other as Jesus showed us. Sharing the Gospel with the world is our daily task, performed out of that love, wanting all to hear of the gift of salvation He offers us.
Jesus warned it would not be easy, and Paul suffered hardship, pain and ridicule for his ministry. We may not be called to go through what the founders of our faith endured, but our task is the same. The kingdom of God has come near, and it is up to us to share that joy with everyone.
Loving Lord, we are grateful for those who have brought us to the knowledge of Jesus Christ and Your love for us. Help us to be the disciples of today, going to share that love everywhere. Amen.