Pauline resolution to the problem of division and leadership rivalry in the local church based on exegetical study of 1 Corinthians 3:5-11

Abstract

Christ loves the Church as the husband loves his wife. He has given the highest price: His own life on behalf of the Church. The church is His body and He is the Head. The figure of the Church as the body of Christ is the basis of Paul’s appeal for Christian unity and cooperation.

This special paper is written out of a growing concern of the writer regarding church conflict, which often leads to the division of the church. Division due to the misunderstanding and personal quarrel of the members creates a negative and bitter impact on the church in the society. It weakens its testimony among the unbelievers, destroys the fellowship of its members, and robs God of His glory.

This special paper is entitled, “Pauline Resolution to the Problem of Division and Leadership Rivalry in the Local Church Based on Exegetical Study of 1 Corinthians 3:5- 11.” The problem was chosen because it is relevant and timely to the need of the Convention of Philippine Baptist Churches (CPBC) of which the writer has served as an active minister. It is a well-known fact that cases of multiplication, especially in the CPBC, happen not because of biological or numerical growth, but because of irreconcilable conflicts or differences. Unfortunately, most of the conflicts seem to be the results of rivalry of the leaders in particular and spiritual immaturity of the members in general.

This special paper is divided into five (5) major sections. Chapter 1 offers an introduction to the book of 1 Corinthians. The substance of this chapter serves more on the study of Paul’s conflict resolution in the church of Corinth where members formed factions and competed with each other. This chapter also features the scope, limitations, and methodology of the research. The writer includes a review of related literature for further references and a definition of terms to avoid unnecessary confusion on the part of the readers.

Chapter II integrates hermeneutics and exegesis of 1 Corinthians 3:5-11 as the biblical foundation of the paper. For further illumination of the passage, the writer adds the background of 1 Cor. 3:5-11 and a note about the author of the epistle and his recipients.

Chapter III addresses the issue of leadership rivalry in the local church based on Paul’s concepts of the role of the minister as a servant of God. Here the writer clarifies the common misinterpretations of Corinthian Christians, which are the same misconceptions of church members today.

Chapter IV discusses Paul’s resolutions on church conflict in general and what they imply to the local church today. Moreover, this chapter talks about the appropriate attitude of the minister in dealing with some conflict in the church, of which he plays an important role.

Chapter V presents the Conclusions and Recommendations based on the findings of this study.

The writer hopes that this study will benefit leaders and members of all local churches under CPBC.