1 CORINTHIANS
ABOUT THIS LETTER
Although this letter is called the First Letter to the Corinthians, it is not really the
first one that Paul wrote to this church. We know this because he mentions in this letter
that he had written one before (5.9). The Christians in Corinth had also written to him
(7.1), and part of First Corinthians contains Paul's answers to questions they had asked.
Corinth is a large port city in southern Greece. Paul began his work there in a Jewish
meeting place, but he had to move next door to the home of a Gentile who had become a
follower of Jesus (Acts 18.1-17). Most of the followers in Corinth were poor people (1
Corinthians 1.26-29), though some of them were wealthy (1 Corinthians 11.18-21), and one
was even the city treasurer (Romans 16.23). While he was in Corinth, Paul worked as a
tentmaker to earn a living (Acts 18.3; 1 Corinthians 4.12; 9.1-18).
Paul was especially concerned about the way the Corinthian Christians were always arguing
and dividing themselves into groups (1.10—4.21) and about the way they treated one
another (5.1—6.20). These are two of Paul's main concerns as he writes this letter.
But he also wants to answer the questions they asked him about marriage (7.1-40) and food
offered to idols (8.1-13). Paul encourages them to worship God the right way
(10.1—14.40) and to be firm in their belief that God has given them victory over
death (15.1-58).
Love, Paul tells them, is even more important than faith or hope. All of the problems in
the church could be solved, if all the members would love one another, as Christians
should:
Love is kind and patient,
never jealous, boastful,
proud, or rude.
Love rejoices in the truth,
but not in evil.
Love is always supportive,
loyal, hopeful,
and trusting.
Love never fails!
(13.4,5a,6-8a)
A QUICK LOOK AT THIS LETTER
Paul's Greeting and Prayer (1.1-9)
A Call for Unity (1.10—4.21)
Problems in Relationships (5.1—7.40)
Honoring God Instead of Idols (8.1—11.1)
Guidance for Worship and Church Life (11.2—14.40)
Christ's Victory Over Death (15.1-58)
An Offering for the Poor (16.1-4)
Paul's Travel Plans (16.5-12)
Personal Concerns and Greetings (16.13-24)
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