Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-23

 

   Paul called the Corinthians infants in the Christian faith because they were not spiritually healthy and mature. The proof was that they quarreled like children, allowing divisions to distract them. Immature Christians are worldly, controlled by their own desires; mature believers are in tune with God’s desires. How much influence do your desires have on your life? Your goal should be to let God’s desires be yours. Being controlled by your own desires will stunt your spiritual growth. 
Paul planted the seed of the Gospel message in people’s hearts. He was a missionary pioneer; he brought the message of salvation. Apollos came along and watered the seed. He helped the believers grow stronger in the faith. Paul founded the church in Corinth, and Apollos built upon that foundation. Tragically, the believers in Corinth had split into factions, pledging loyalty to different teachers. After the preacher’s work is completed, God is the one who makes Christians grow. Our leaders should certainly be respected, but we should never place them on pedestals that create barriers between people or set them up as a substitute for Christ.