1 Corinthians
Paul addresses a church divided by factions, confused about Christian freedom, and tolerating serious sin. First Corinthians applies gospel wisdom to practical problems: sexuality, marriage, idol food, worship, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection. The letter demonstrates that theology always matters for daily life.
Key Themes
The cross and worldly wisdom
The Corinthians prize eloquent wisdom, but Paul preaches Christ crucified, foolishness to the world but God's power and wisdom. The cross exposes worldly values and creates a counterintuitive community.
Church unity and love
Divisions over leaders betray a misunderstanding of ministry and the church. Believers belong to Christ, not to Paul or Apollos. Love, not knowledge or spiritual prowess, builds up the body.
Sexual ethics and holiness
Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. Sexual immorality violates union with Christ and dishonors God. Christian freedom is not license but liberation to glorify God with our bodies.
Spiritual gifts for edification
Gifts are given by the same Spirit for the common good, not individual status. The church is one body with many members. Without love, even dramatic gifts are worthless noise.
The resurrection
If Christ has not been raised, our faith is futile and we are still in our sins. But Christ has been raised as the firstfruits, guaranteeing our future resurrection and victory over death.
Structure Overview
Divisions and Wisdom (1–4)
Factions in the church, the wisdom of the cross, and the role of apostles.
Moral and Ethical Issues (5–11)
Sexual immorality, lawsuits, marriage, idol food, head coverings, and the Lord's Supper.
Spiritual Gifts (12–14)
One body with many gifts, the supremacy of love, and orderly worship.
Resurrection and Conclusion (15–16)
The resurrection of Christ and believers, final instructions, and greetings.
Why read this book?
First Corinthians addresses perennial church problems with gospel clarity. Its teaching on love, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection remains foundational for Christian practice and hope. The letter shows how the cross must shape every aspect of life together.
Begin Reading
Church Divisions
Divisions over leaders, true wisdom is Christ crucified, immaturity and jealousy in the church
Moral Issues
Dealing with immorality in the church, lawsuits among believers, teachings on marriage and celibacy
Christian Liberty
Food sacrificed to idols, Paul's rights as an apostle, warnings from Israel's history, Lord's Supper
Spiritual Gifts
Variety of gifts, one body, love is supreme, prophecy and tongues in worship
Resurrection and Closing
The resurrection of Christ and believers, collection for Jerusalem, final instructions