1 Corinthians 1:2
“Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours”
Context:The book of 1 Corinthians was written by the apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. Corinth was a bustling cosmopolitan city known for its immorality and pagan worship. The Corinthian church faced various challenges, including divisions, immorality, misuse of spiritual gifts, and theological misunderstandings. In this verse, Paul addresses the believers in Corinth and highlights some important aspects of their identity as Christians.
The Church of God:Paul begins by addressing the Corinthians as the “church of God.” This title emphasizes that the church belongs to God. It is not merely a human institution but a gathering of people who have been called out by God and belong to Him. This reminder helps establish the authority and sovereignty of God over the church.
Sanctified in Christ Jesus:Paul further describes the believers in Corinth as those who are “sanctified in Christ Jesus.” To be sanctified means to be set apart or made holy. Through their faith in Jesus Christ, the Corinthians had been cleansed from their sins and set apart for God’s purposes. This sanctification is not something they achieved by their own efforts but was bestowed upon them through their union with Christ.
Called to be Saints:Paul also mentions that the Corinthians were “called to be saints.” The word “saints” refers to believers who are set apart for God’s service. It is not an honorary title reserved for a select few, but rather a description of every follower of Jesus Christ. The calling to be a saint involves living a life of holiness, devoted to God’s will and purposes.
Calling on the Name of Jesus Christ:Paul states that the Corinthians, along with believers in every place, “call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord.” This phrase highlights the believers’ practice of prayer and worship, acknowledging Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. Calling on His name signifies their dependence on Him, their submission to His authority, and their trust in His power to answer their prayers.
Unity in Christ:Paul concludes the verse by highlighting the unity of believers in Christ. He reminds the Corinthians that Jesus Christ is not only their Lord but also the Lord of all believers. This statement emphasizes the common faith shared by Christians, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. Regardless of their location, all believers have a shared relationship with Jesus Christ and are part of the universal body of Christ.
Overall, 1 Corinthians 1:2 reminds us of the essential elements of our Christian identity: belonging to the church of God, being sanctified in Christ, called to be saints, and living in unity with all believers who call upon the name of Jesus Christ. It encourages us to recognize our position as a set-apart people and to live in accordance with God’s purposes, relying on His grace and united in our devotion to Christ.
