The Church in Corinth

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Discussion Guide for small groups, families and individuals

The Church in Corinth 1 Corinthians 1:1-17 September 19-20, 2015 For Starters 1. Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything that particularly caught your attention, challenged you or raised questions? 2. Describe a time when you were hurt by a division within a group of which you were a part. Digging In 1. Read 1 Corinthians 1:1-3 and keep in mind this is a letter. What do you notice about the sender and the recipients? To whom is this letter addressed? 2. What words or phrases are repeated in these three verses? What does Paul seem to be emphasizing? 3. Paul prays for the readers in verses 4-9. What is he thankful for? How does Paul affirm his readers? What is Paul’s ultimate desire for the church? 4. What actions or attributes of God do you notice in verses 4-9? 5. Read verses 10-12. What is happening in the church in Corinth that causes Paul to make his appeal in verse 10? Why might Paul begin his letter with this appeal? 6. Why do you think cliques had formed around Paul, Apollos and Cephas (v. 12)? 7. How did Paul conduct himself in Corinth to avoid, if possible, the problem of a personality cult (vv. 14-17)? 8. Paul was one of the church’s first great missionaries, yet what words does he use to describe his preaching in verse 17? Bringing It Home 1. Paul’s greeting and opening emphasizes the idea of being sanctified, blameless and standing firm. What steps might you take this week to stand firm as a Christ follower? 2. How are you tempted to be divided against other Christians? What causes these divisions? What can you do to remain united with those you disagree? 3. How does Paul’s description of his preaching the gospel without eloquence or wisdom (v. 17) encourage you as you seek to tell others about Jesus? Is there someone God is leading or prompting you to share a verbal witness of your faith in Jesus Christ? Digging Deeper Read Acts 18:1-18 to get an understanding of Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians. How much time did Paul spend here? Who was Sosthenes and how does his inclusion in this letter appeal to the Corinthians?