1 Corinthians

Chapter 1

Paul addressed the church in Corinth, reminding them that they were sanctified in Christ and called to be holy. "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ." - 1 Corinthians 1:3.

Thanksgiving

Paul thanked God for the grace shown to the Corinthians, noting how they were enriched with knowledge, speech, and confirmed the truth of the gospel. He assured them that they lacked no spiritual gift and that God would keep them blameless until Christ’s return.

A Church Divided Over Leaders

Paul urged the church in Corinth to unite in their theology. Some believers claimed loyalty to different leaders (Paul, Apollos, Cephas, or Christ), which created division. Paul reminded them that Christ alone was crucified for them and minimized his role in baptizing, stressing that his mission was to preach Christ’s gospel, not to elevate himself.

Christ Crucified Is God's Power And Wisdom

Paul highlighted that the message of the cross appeared foolish to non-believers but embodied God’s power for salvation. He noted that Jews looked for signs and Greeks looked for wisdom but neither, but Christ’s crucifixion was misunderstood by both Jews and Greeks. Paul explains that God’s "foolishness" surpasses human wisdom and His weakness is stronger than human strength. Paul reminds the Corinthians that when he met them, they were not wise, influential, or of noble birth. However, God chooses the foolish, weak, and low in society to shame the strong and so that none may boast.

The book of 1 Corinthians, written by the Apostle Paul around 55 AD to the church in Corinth, a city in Greece. On his second missionary journey, Paul is addressing the church he started. During this time, Corinth was full of sexual immorality and idolatry, which was affecting the church. Paul addresses these concerns along with others such as division and confusion over spiritual gifts among believers. He calls for unity amongst Christians and to put Christ above their personal allegiances. Paul highlights love as the foundation for Christian conduct, teaching that true wisdom and maturity come through the Holy Spirit, not human pride or intellect. He corrects misunderstandings about marriage, food sacrificed to idols, and the resurrection, reminding believers that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.

Christ Crucified Is God's Power And Wisdom (cont.) - Chapter 2

Paul reminded the Corinthians that he approached them not with eloquence or human wisdom but to provide testimony about God. He to Corinth in humility to teach them about Jesus Christ and to demonstrate the Holy Spirit. Paul did this so they could put their faith in God, not human wisdom.

God's Wisdom Revealed By The Spirit

Paul explained that true wisdom comes from God’s Spirit, not from worldly leaders. He described this divine wisdom as a mystery, hidden for the glory of believers, which worldly rulers couldn’t understand. Only the Spirit reveals God’s deep truths, and those without the Spirit find these truths incomprehensible. Through the Spirit, believers have "the mind of Christ," enabling them to discern spiritual realities that go beyond human judgment.

The Church And Its Leaders - Chapter 3

Paul addressed the Corinthians as “infants in Christ” because of their spiritual immaturity and worldly behavior, including jealousy and disagreements. He clarified that leaders like himself and Apollos were merely servants assigned specific roles by God, who alone causes growth. Paul emphasized that while he laid the foundation of faith, others built upon it, with Christ as the sole foundation. Paul compares believers to God’s temple, which is sacred, and warned that God will judge those who harm it. He urged them not to boast in human wisdom, as true wisdom comes from God, to whom all ultimately belong.

The Nature Of True Apostleship - Chapter 4

Paul encouraged the Corinthians to view apostles as humble servants entrusted with God’s mysteries and advocated for faithfulness over public judgment. He urged them to refrain from judging until God reveals all motives at the appointed time. Using himself and Apollos as examples, Paul reminded them not to elevate one leader over another and questioned why they boasted. He described apostles’ hardships like being mocked as “fools for Christ,” dishonored, and suffering daily, to illustrate their dedication.

Paul's Appeal And Warning

Paul explained that he was not writing to the Corinthians to shame them, but to lovingly correct them as a father. He urged them to follow his example in Christ, so he sent Timothy to remind them of his teachings. Paul addressed some Corinthians’ arrogance, cautioning that he would visit soon to assess not just their words but the authenticity of their spiritual power. He reminded them that the kingdom of God is about power, not empty talk, and asked if they preferred his arrival to be with gentle guidance or necessary discipline.

Dealing With A Case Of Incest - Chapter 5

Paul addressed a case of sexual immorality in the Corinthian church, where a man was involved with his stepmother (the phrase "father's wife" was typically used to imply a woman married to his father but not his mother). Rather than mourn, the church had become arrogant about this tolerance. Paul urged them to remove the man from fellowship, symbolically “handing him over to Satan” to bring him to repentance and ultimately save his spirit. He reminded them that tolerating sin affects the whole community, like yeast affecting dough. Paul instructed the church to distance themselves from anyone within the church who claimed to be a believer yet practiced such immorality, leaving judgment of outsiders to God. It is important to note, in 1 Corinthians 5:11, Paul said "Do not even eat with such people," which taken out of context appears to be against Jesus' teachings. However, Paul was referring to unrepentant church members, unlike Jesus who was eating with sinners and directing them toward repentance.

Lawsuits Among Believers - Chapter 6

Paul urged the Corinthian church to resolve their disputes within the church rather than turning to secular (i.e. non-Christian or non-religious) courts. He reminded them of their future role in judging the world and even angels to emphasize their ability to handle smaller matters internally. Taking disputes before non-believers reflected a spiritual defeat and it would be better to accept wrongs than harm the church’s reputation. He warned that those who engage in unrighteous behavior will not inherit God’s kingdom.

"Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God." - 1 Corinthians 6:9. However, Paul reminded them they were cleansed, sanctified, and justified by Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Sexual Immorality

Paul addressed the misuse of freedom in Christ, warning against allowing it to lead to harmful behaviors. He clarified that while certain actions might be permissible, not all are beneficial or honoring to God. Paul emphasized that the body belongs to the Lord and should not be misused for sexual immorality. He explained that believers are united with Christ, making their bodies temples of the Holy Spirit. Sexual sin is unique as it directly affects one’s body, which was bought at a price by Christ. Paul encouraged believers to flee immorality and honor God with their bodies.

Concerning Married Life - Chapter 7

Paul addressed questions about marriage, stating that each man and woman remain faithful to their spouse. Spouses should fulfill each other’s physical needs, as each yields authority over their own body to the other. Temporary abstention is permitted for prayer if mutually agreed. While Paul valued celibacy, he acknowledged marriage as a practical choice for those struggling with self-control. He discouraged divorce but advised the unmarried or widowed to stay single. If married to an unbeliever who is willing to stay, they should remain married, as their influence sanctifies the family. However, if the unbeliever leaves, the believer is not bound in such cases.

Concerning Change Of Status

Paul encouraged believers to live in the status they had when called by God. Paul explained that changing one’s outward circumstances, like circumcision, was unnecessary for faithfulness. He stressed that God values obedience over outward symbols. Whether slave or free, believers are ultimately freed through Christ and should not become slaves to people, as they were bought by Christ at a great price. Paul advised that each person be responsible to God, content in the role they had when they were called to faith, but those who could gain freedom were encouraged to do so.

Concerning The Unmarried

Paul advised that those who are unmarried should remain unmarried to avoid potential hardship. However, marriage is not sinful for those who choose it, even though it brings worldly concerns. Paul reminded believers that time is short, and they should hold all earthly matters loosely, focusing on serving God. Unmarried individuals can devote themselves fully to God’s work, while married people divide their attention. Paul emphasized that his counsel was for believers' benefit, not restriction, and allowing them to serve God wholeheartedly. He suggested it is commendable to marry if self-control is challenging but considered singleness advantageous for undivided devotion.

Concerning Food Sacrificed To Idols - Chapter 8

Paul addressed eating food sacrificed to idols. Though believers understand that idols have no real power, as there is only one true God, not everyone shares this understanding. Some believers may feel guilty eating such food and strong believers should be careful with their freedoms to avoid causing others to stumble. Paul explained that, if exercising one’s freedom in eating sacrificed food could lead a weaker believer into sin, you should abstain entirely rather than harm another’s faith.

Paul's Rights As An Apostle - Chapter 9

Paul defended his role as an apostle, asserting his rights to support and freedom. He provides an example of other apostles who received sustenance and marrying. Using analogies from everyday life, he argued that those who work for the gospel should receive material support, as stated in Scripture about oxen and temple workers. However, Paul chose not to use these rights to avoid hindering the gospel. He preached freely and saw it as a duty entrusted to him by God.

Paul's Use Of His Freedom

Paul described his willingness to adapt his behavior to relate to different groups. He adapted to Jews, those under the law, Gentiles, and the weak to win them for Christ. He chose to live like a servant to meet others where they were spiritually. "I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." - 1 Corinthians 9:22.

The Need For Self-Discipline

Paul emphasized the importance of self-discipline. He compared the Christian life to a race where only one receives the prize. Believers should exercise spiritual discipline to obtain an eternal reward. Paul focused his energy purposefully and strived to keep his life consistent with his preaching to avoid being disqualified from the prize of eternal life.

Warnings From Isreal's History - Chapter 10

Paul reminded the Corinthians of Israel’s history to caution them against spiritual complacency. He explained that the Israelites experienced God’s provision, symbolized by the cloud, sea, spiritual food, and water, which Paul connected to Christ. However, many fell due to sin. Their idolatry, immorality, testing of God, and complaints led to judgment. Paul explained that these events happened and were written as examples to help others avoid sin.

Idol Feasts And The LORD's Supper

Paul advised believers to avoid idolatry, highlighting the unity believers share through the Lord’s Supper. Just as Israel’s sacrifices connected worshipers to the altar, Christians share in Christ’s body and blood through communion. Paul warned that eating food sacrificed to idols could connect believers to demons, arousing God’s jealousy. They could not serve both Christ and idols.

The Believer's Freedom

Paul acknowledged the freedom of being a Christian but warned that not everything permissible is beneficial. He encouraged them to consider others’ well-being over personal freedom. Paul said that eating meat sacrificed to idols may not affect a Christian, but if it causes another to stumble, a Christian should avoid it. Above all, he urged them to act for God’s glory.

On Covering The Head In Worship - Chapter 11

Paul emphasized that Christ is the head of every man, while man is the head of woman, and God is the head of Christ. Men should pray and prophesy with uncovered heads to honor God, while women should cover their heads to show respect and avoid dishonor. Paul rooted this instruction in cultural expressions of authority and respect, adding that long hair serves as a natural covering for women. He reinforced this practice as a standard among the churches.

Correcting An Abuse Of The Lord's Supper

Paul rebuked the Corinthians for misusing the Lord’s Supper, where divisions and selfish behavior were prevalent. Some ate their own meals ahead of others, leaving some hungry and others drunk. Paul reminded them that the true meaning of the Lord’s Supper was to remember Jesus’ sacrifice through the bread, symbolizing His body, and the cup, symbolizing the new covenant in His blood. He warned against taking communion unworthily and to self-examine before taking communion to avoid judgment.

Concerning Spiritual Gifts - Chapter 12

Paul explained that no one speaking by the Spirit would curse Jesus, and only those led by the Spirit can genuinely confess Jesus as Lord. Paul explains that there are many spiritual gifts but that they all come from the same Spirit. Gifts mentioned include wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment of spirits, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues. The Spirit distributes each gift as He determines.

Unity And Diversity In The Body

Using the metaphor of the body, Paul explained how the church is one unified entity, yet composed of many distinct members. All believers, regardless of background, are united through the same Spirit. Just as the body has different parts that are necessary for its function, each member of the church has a unique role. No part should feel less valuable nor dismiss others. God arranged each to work harmoniously. If one part suffers, the entire body shares in that suffering. Paul emphasized that the church functions as the body of Christ, with each believer contributing to its well-being. He listed roles within the church—apostles, prophets, teachers, and others with various spiritual gifts—encouraging them to desire the greater gifts.

Love Is Indispensable - Chapter 13

Paul taught that love was the essential foundation for all spiritual gifts, stating that without it, even impressive acts like prophecy, knowledge, or faith amounted to nothing. "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres." 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. Paul compared human understanding to a child’s limited view, but explained that it would one day be replaced by full understanding. "And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love." -1 Corinthians 13:13.

Intelligibility In Worship - Chapter 14

Paul encouraged the Corinthians to desire spiritual gifts, especially prophecy. Paul specifies the importance of prophecy because it benefits the church by offering clarity, encouragement, and comfort. He explained that speaking in tongues served only the individual unless interpreted, while prophecy built up the whole congregation. He emphasizes the importance of speaking intelligibly so listeners could understand and benefit. Paul explains that speaking in tongues is a gift and it should be meaningful within worship and be used to edify others. He emphasized that orderly and meaningful communication honored God and allowed for mutual edification.

Good Order In Worship

Paul outlined guidelines for orderly worship, instructing believers to ensure that everything done in church built up the congregation. Only two or three should speak in tongues or prophesy, and if there were no interpreter, the speaker should remain silent. Prophets were to weigh and control their messages, allowing for all to learn and be encouraged. Paul instructs the women in Corinth to remain silent during services, show respect, and show submission. However, it is important to note that Paul was directing this message to the women in Corinth specifically, as they were disrupting service with their newfound freedom as Christians. Paul concluded by encouraging the Corinthians to desire prophecy and welcome tongues but to ensure all practices followed an orderly, respectful, and edifying structure in worship.

The Resurrection Of Christ - Chapter 15

Paul reminded the Corinthians of the gospel he preached, centered on Christ’s death for sins, burial, and resurrection on the third day, fulfilling Scripture. He emphasized the numerous witnesses to the risen Christ, including Cephas, the Twelve, over five hundred believers, James, all the apostles, and himself. In humility, Paul states that he is not worthy of being an apostle, due to his persecution of Christians, but by God's grace he came to know Christ. Paul underscored that this message of resurrection was essential for salvation and urged the Corinthians to hold firmly to their faith.

The Resurrection Of The Dead

Paul challenged those who doubted resurrection, asserting that if there were no resurrection, then Christ would not have risen. If Christ did not rise, the gospel and faith are meaningless. Without resurrection, believers would remain in their sins, and those who died in Christ would be lost. However, Christ’s resurrection was a “firstfruits” of what believers would experience. "For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." -1 Corinthians 15:22. Christ would ultimately hand the kingdom to God after defeating all authorities, including death itself. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to reject false teachings and embrace the resurrection's hope and purpose.

The Resurrection Of The Body

In response to questions about the nature of the resurrection body, Paul compared it to a seed that dies to bring forth life. God would grant believers a new, glorified body, distinct from their earthly one, imperishable and powerful. Just as creation holds various forms of bodies the resurrection body would be unique and reflect the heavenly nature of Christ. Lastly, Paul explains that death has lost its "sting" through "our Lord Jesus Christ," who gave us victory, so we should stand firm in our faith and give ourselves "fully to the work of the Lord."

The Collection For The Lord's People - Chapter 16

Paul instructed the Corinthians to set aside money weekly for the Jerusalem church. Each member was to save according to their income so that when Paul arrived, no further collections would be necessary. He planned to send trusted men, approved by the church, with letters of introduction to deliver their gift to Jerusalem. If needed, Paul would also accompany them.

Personal Requests

Paul shared his travel plans, intending to visit Corinth after passing through Macedonia and decided to remain in Ephesus until Pentecost. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to welcome Timothy respectfully and promised that Apollos would visit. He reminded them to stand firm in faith, act with courage, and do everything with love.

Final Greetings

Paul extended greetings from the churches in Asia, including from Aquila, Priscilla, and their house church. He asked them to greet each other with a holy kiss, expressing his personal love and blessings in Christ. Paul wrote the closing in his own handwriting. "The grace of the Lord Jesus be with you. My love to all of you in Christ Jesus. Amen." -1 Corinthians 16:23-24.