It seems strange that Paul would thank God that he had not baptized people (vv. 14-15). Paul’s point in making this statement was not to suggest that baptism is unimportant; rather, it was that people should not seek to identify with the person who baptized them because their only saving union is with Christ. Paul wanted the focus of his ministry to be Christ, not himself. He had a role to play in the body at Corinth just like everyone else. In championing our union with Christ, Paul’s role was to plant, Apollos’s was to water, but God is the One who brought the increase (1 Cor. 3:6-7).
No matter what stage of life we are in as Christians, our goal should be to imitate Paul by seeking to make Jesus famous and not ourselves. This happens when our eyes are transfixed on Him rather than ourselves. Only when we look to Christ are we free to find our true identity and experience lasting joy, power, and rest within.
As disciples of Jesus, we must live with this understanding: God saved us not because He needed us or because of our accomplishments but for His own glory. May we never boast in pride or wallow in self-pity; instead, may our boast be in our great Savior who became wisdom for us—our righteousness, sanctification, and redemption (vv. 30-31).
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Adults
Every week for Volume 4: From Captivity to the Wilderness, Ken Braddy, Lifeway’s director of Sunday School, will offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Adults.
Podcast (adultsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
Tips for Teaching This Week’s Session of The Gospel Project for Students
Every week, student ministry leaders offer guidance to help leaders prepare to lead and teach each session of The Gospel Project for Students. Listen in as he shares:
- The main point of the session
- Any challenges and opportunities for additional discussion that may arise during this session
- Encouragements for leaders
Podcast (studentsleadertraining): Play in new window | Download
A Final Reminder
Don’t forget, you can find tools to help you prepare and lead the discussion in the Additional Resources for this volume. We hope these are a blessing to you as you walk through this session together.
*This week’s leader devotional is written by Jamaal Williams. It is adapted from the daily devotions for Unit 32, Session 3 from The Gospel Project for Adults’ Daily Discipleship Guide.
