SOUTHSIDE CHURCH OF CHRIST

An Assembly Line Production -- Salvation, Sunday, 11 Feb. 2001

Feb 10, 2001

Leland R. Ping

The concept of the assembly line is one with which most are familiar. In the production of virtually any electronic devise or vehicle, different individuals are responsible for the different tasks necessary to complete the final product. Furthermore, it is necessary that those who work on that line are respectful of their particular part in the making a successful, functioning and valuable product. If the person making a television set decides he wishes to install the buttons on the front instead of the screen, then obviously a problem will result. Just as the screen is important, so are the buttons. Each particular element is necessary. This same principle holds true when it comes to the most important thing that could ever be provided - eternal salvation.

In his letter to the Church at Corinth, Paul tells us that, "I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase" (I Corinthians 3:6). Paul recognized these three different characters as individually important in being successful in spreading salvation. Paul understood his responsibility and also that of Apollos and God. This recognition on the part of Paul, that teaching about salvation is like an assembly line where different individuals have specific responsibilities, is important for two reasons.

First, we must remember that we can not do all the work alone. As Christians, we should be ever aware of the responsibilities and opportunities provided us in teaching the lost. Yet, when we have done our part and no result is present, we have no need to become discouraged. Had Paul taught and Apollos not watered, success could not have been had. Yet, this would not have the fault of Paul. We must do our duty and then move on.

Second, it is comforting that God has a part in the process. We must do our part and leave the rest to God. And, in light of God's infinite wisdom, we must place our trust in him and his plans. In fact, Paul tells us that we are workers "with God" (I Corinthians 3:9).

Let us remember these things and strive to work, doing our part while encouraging others to do theirs, as with such an organized assembly line, we can be successful in teaching others about the salvation of God.