August 25, 2026
— Cheng Jingyi · Source: Speech at the Edinburgh International Mission Conference
1 Corinthians 1:12-13 This means that each of you says, “I belong to Paul,” “I belong to Apollos,” “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you baptized in Paul’s name?
Paul's rebuke of the factional strife within the Corinthian church, and Pastor Cheng Jingyi's poignant cry against denominational division, still resonate deeply after a millennium. We often unconsciously place denominational labels, theological preferences, or church traditions upon the cross of Christ. However, man-made walls do not bring spiritual richness; instead, they obscure the essence of the gospel. Just as Christ was never divided, only the name of Jesus can save us. Today, we should turn back and examine whether our faith is tainted by denominational pride and prejudice. Only by setting aside unnecessary divisions and accepting one another in the love and truth of Christ can we reveal to the world the unbroken essence of Christ.
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us through Paul's teachings and Pastor Cheng Jingyi's appeal that Christ has never separated us; only Your cross can save us. Please forgive the pride and divisions that arise in our faith life due to differences in denomination, background, or views. Lord, grant us humble and united hearts, remove the denominational walls in our hearts, and enable us to look beyond human traditions and look solely to the exaltation of Jesus Christ. May Your Holy Spirit work in unifying hearts, so that churches throughout the world may be closely united in the Lord's love, supporting one another, fighting the good fight together in this generation, and revealing the true light to the world. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen!