The standard, that usually leads ceremonial processions, is symbolic of its use in war. The standard bearer was there to keep it held high, so while in battle, the men could look to it to know they were still in the fight. We use that phrase today to speak of someone in leadership, say a president, who is our standard bearer in (blank) political movement. Martin Luther is still our standard bearer in faith, for example, as we read what he wrote when we look at scripture to find its true and deeper meanings.
Paul was one of our initial standard bearers, and while addressing the church in Corinth, he is holding that standard high. The divisions among the church and the body were many. Yet he speaks of the standard he holds in chapter 2, "And I, when I came to you brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified." (v 1 and 2)
The standard we all stand with as Christians is Christ and him crucified. His suffering, death and resurrection is what binds us together in the body of Christ. As followers, when we get into disagreement, our common standard should be the proclamation of that redeeming grace of Christ.
Pray that we never forget that standard of Christ and him crucified.
Hope Men's Ministry
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