S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

Author: 1 Corinthians 1:1 identifies the author of the Book of 1 Corinthians as the apostle Paul.Date of Writing: The Book of 1 Corinthians was written in approximately A. D. 55.Purpose of Writing:...

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November 15 2013 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What is the book of 1 Corinthians?

1 Corinthians is a New Testament Pauline epistle written by the Apostle Paul (with Sosthenes) around A.D. 55 to the church in Corinth. It addresses divisions, sexual immorality, lawsuits, marriage, and chaotic worship, urging unity, love, and living according to the gospel. It is often referred to as the First Epistle to the Corinthians.

Paul confronts issues such as factionalism, pride, and misconduct, urging the congregation to exhibit Christ-like behaviour.

In chapters 12–14, Paul instructs on the use of spiritual gifts for edification, culminating in the famous description of love in 1 Corinthians 13.

Chapter 15 provides a foundational defence of the bodily resurrection of Jesus and believers.

Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians allows us to look inside the Corinthian congregation itself. These Christians had problems to face and questions to resolve. There were factions within the congregation, for some were following men. A shocking case of sexual immorality had arisen. Some were living in religiously divided households. Should they remain with their unbelieving mates or separate? And what of eating meat sacrificed to idols? Should they partake of it? The Corinthians needed advice on conducting their meetings, including the celebration of the Lord’s Evening Meal. What should be the position of women in the congregation? Then, too, there were those in their midst who denied the resurrection. Problems were many. Particularly, the apostle was interested in bringing about a spiritual restoration of the Corinthians.

What benefits of inspired instruction may we receive from Paul’s first letter to Corinthian Christians? Meditate upon the counsel given against divisions and following men. (Chapters 1-4)

Recall the case of immorality and how Paul emphasised the need for virtue and cleanliness within the congregation. (Chapters 5, 6) 

Consider his inspired advice relative to singleness, marriage, and separation. (Chapter 7)

Think of the apostle’s discussion of foods offered to idols as well as of how the necessity of guarding against stumbling others and falling into idolatry was so forcefully brought to the fore. 

(Chapters 8-10) Admonition concerning proper subjection, a consideration of spiritual gifts, that most practical discussion on the excellence of the enduring, unfailing quality of love​—these things too have passed in review.

And how well the apostle accentuated the need for orderliness in Christian meetings! (Chapters 11-14) 

What a marvellous defence of the resurrection he penned under inspiration! (Chapter 15) All of this and more has moved before the mind’s eye​—and it is so valuable to Christians in our day!

This letter adds notably to our understanding of the glorious Bible theme of the Kingdom of God. It gives a stern warning that unrighteous persons will not enter the Kingdom, and it lists many of the vices that would disqualify a person. (1 Cor. 6:9, 10) 

But most importantly, it explains the relation between the resurrection and God’s Kingdom.

It is based on the resurrection hope that Paul admonishes: “Consequently, my beloved brothers, become steadfast, unmovable, always having plenty to do in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labour is not in vain in connection with the Lord.”

6 days ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report