Think of the church as a field of wheat. For the wheat to burst forth from the ground and become wheat, it needs to be watered, right? Otherwise, it would die. The same with the church. The seeds have been planted, but for growth there needs waterers. This is called discipleship. Paul is writing to the church at Corinth in these verses and he says, I planted and Apollos watered. Hence, Paul brought the gospel, the people responded, and Apollos stayed there to disciple the people. This is how the church is supposed to operate.
Sadly, discipleship has taken a back seat in the church. The church has become a master at community service, programs, activities, entertainment, groups, and watered down messages. Hence, discipleship is hard to find in the modern church. The church lacks waterers for sure. Yet, Paul speaks about it throughout his letters. Without waterers, the church will shrivel up and die. Discipleship is not studying books together, gathering in community, fellowshipping after church, discussing “Christian” things online, or posting a verse here and there. No. Discipleship is pouring the truth of God’s Word into people. Discipleship is coming alongside people and training them in the Word of God. This is why I’m such an advocate of Bible study. Churches need more Bible studies, pastors who teach through whole books of the Bible, and training the people to become waterers.
To become an effective waterer, though, you need to start with a craving. Peter writes in 1 Peter 2:2-3: “Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment.” When we crave what’s pure (the Word of God), we will then pour out that purity into others. But we mustn’t let that craving fade. How do we do that? By feeding it. The more you feed that craving, the more you’ll crave. In my mind, the best way to feed that craving is through Bible study. We need to become students of God’s Word.
Tim Tebow said, “Once you’ve been rescued, you’re then on the rescue team.” This is true of both the planter and the waterer. So, let me ask… are you watering? Are you investing into your brothers and sisters in Christ? Are you involved in Bible study and inviting others to join you? Imagine how much stronger and vibrant the church would be if there were more waterers? Let me encourage you today to get out those watering cans and pour that pure water out into someone.