Title: “Divisions and Communion” – Sermon by Jeff Piepho, part of the “1 Corinthians (Jesus Above All Things)” series (May 14, 2023)

Jeff Piepho, in his sermon “Divisions and Communion” from the “1 Corinthians (Jesus Above All Things)” series, uncovers the dangers of division within the church and the importance of unity, particularly during the act of communion. The sermon uses 1 Corinthians 11:17-34 as its foundational scripture.

Piepho starts by expressing the severity of divisions within the church and how such divisions indicate who truly belongs to the church. He reminds the congregation that communion is designed to unite believers and warns of the severe consequences of partaking in communion while fostering divisions within the church.

The sermon delves into the issue of divisions within the Corinthian Church, where wealthier Christians failed to consider their less fortunate brothers and sisters, creating a class division and disrespecting the Church. Piepho emphasizes that this type of division undermines the unity that communion represents – a shared participation in the body of Christ.

Furthermore, he warns that partaking in communion in an unworthy manner, such as harboring resentment towards fellow believers or disregarding their feelings, is a sin. It contradicts the commemoration of Jesus’ sacrifice.

In the practical application of the sermon, Piepho provides a three-pronged approach. Firstly, he calls for an attitude change, urging believers to resolve divisions and bitterness before partaking in communion. Secondly, he urges believers to act by examining their relationships within the church and continuously working on them. Lastly, he encourages believers to stay and resolve issues within their church community, and to actively contribute in ways that bless others.