The Christian Church is called to proclaim Jesus Christ as the Head of the Church. Our calling demands unity, rooted in the person of Jesus Christ and in what He accomplished for our salvation through the Cross. Concerning Christ and His Cross, we share one faith, given and sustained by the Holy Spirit. Therefore, divisions and contentions centred on the Cross are inappropriate and destructive.

Jesus Christ is the Great Light, and He calls His Church to unity as we participate faithfully in God’s mission in the world.

The Problem of Division in the Corinthian Church

In addressing the divisions within the church in Corinth, the Apostle Paul appeals earnestly to the believers in the name of Jesus Christ. Reports had reached him that quarrels and factionalism had emerged among them (1 Corinthians 1:11–12).

Several groups had formed within the church:

The Paul group – aligning themselves with Paul because he founded the church.

The Apollos group – drawn to Apollos because of his eloquence and powerful preaching (Acts 18:24–28).

The Cephas (Peter) group – largely Jewish believers who identified with Peter, reflecting ethnic and tribal sentiments.

The “Christ-only” group – claiming exclusive allegiance to Christ while rejecting the ministry of human leaders altogether. Though seemingly spiritual, this group was also in error.

Paul strongly rebukes this spirit of partisanship and confronts them with searching questions:

Is Christ divided?

Was Paul crucified for you?

Were you baptised in the name of Paul?

These questions redirect the Church to the central truth: our faith and salvation are grounded solely in Jesus Christ and His Cross.

Paul makes it clear that his sole aim was to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ—crucified for the salvation of humanity—not with human wisdom, eloquence, or personal acclaim, but with the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:13–17). The true power of the Church lies not in personality, intellect, speech, or resources, but in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Prophetic Promise of Light (Isaiah 9:1–4)

Centuries earlier, around 771 BC, the prophet Isaiah foretold the coming of the Messiah. He proclaimed that those living in darkness would see a great light. This prophecy was spoken at a time of deep distress:

The Southern Kingdom of Judah faced looming darkness under King Ahaz.

The Northern Kingdom was under threat from Assyria, and the tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali in the Galilean region were on the brink of captivity.

Yet Isaiah declared that from this very region of suffering and conquest would arise the Great Deliverer, who would usher in an era of light, joy, peace, and victory. Oppression would be broken, and warfare would cease. This prophetic promise ultimately finds its fulfilment in Jesus Christ.

The Fulfilment in the Ministry of Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:12–23)

Jesus began His public ministry after being rejected in Nazareth (Luke 4:16–30). He then moved to Capernaum, a town by the Sea of Galilee, located within the boundaries of Zebulun and Naphtali. This move fulfilled Isaiah’s prophecy, as recorded in Matthew 4:12–17. Capernaum became the headquarters of His ministry.

Here, Jesus revealed Himself as the Great Light to a people walking in moral and spiritual darkness. He proclaimed the message:

“Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand.”

Though the Kingdom was largely rejected by Israel, Jesus deliberately formed a team to continue His mission. He called and trained His disciples:

Simon Peter

Andrew, his brother

James, son of Zebedee

John, son of Zebedee

To them He declared, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” This calling represents the highest vocation—to participate in God’s redemptive mission.

The core messages of Jesus’ ministry are captured in His powerful words:

“Repent,” “Follow Me,” and “Blessed are…”

His ministry was holistic—preaching and teaching, healing, and deliverance. He revealed Himself as both Saviour and Healer, and as Isaiah foretold, the people rejoiced as the Light of God shone among them.

Application

We must remain united as we engage in God’s mission.

Love must characterise our relationships within the Church.

Mutual respect is essential in the Body of Christ.

Partisanship and factionalism must be rejected, for they destroy the Church.

We are called to live continually in the Light of Christ.

Humility must guide our service and leadership.

We must turn wholeheartedly from sin and walk in repentance.

Conclusion

The Church is both called into the Light and sent on God’s mission. This calling cannot be fulfilled in isolation, pride, or division. Jesus Christ—the Light of the world—has united us through His Cross and entrusted us with His mission. As we walk in His Light, let us stand together in faith, love, and humility, proclaiming not ourselves, but Christ crucified and risen. Only then will the Church truly reflect the glory of God and accomplish His redemptive purpose in the world.

Closing Prayer

Gracious and Almighty God, We thank You for calling us out of darkness into Your marvellous light through our Lord Jesus Christ. Forgive us for every form of division, pride, and partisanship that weakens Your Church. Unite us by Your Holy Spirit, that we may serve You with one heart and one purpose. Help us to walk in humility, love one another sincerely, and proclaim Christ faithfully in word and deed. As we go forth in Your mission, may Your light shine through us, bringing hope, healing, and salvation to the world.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Rev. Sylvanus Yao Kpodonu