Why read this book?
Fights. Rumors. Factions. It’s all here in 1 Corinthians. Few other books of Scripture reveal the human weaknesses of Christians as vividly as this book does. Some other topics include: How do you deal with a sex-crazed society? Divorce—when is it justified? Can Christians sue? Get ready! You’re about to encounter God’s perspective on some hot topics. You’ll also read about how the church must seek unity as we learn to love one another—with all of our shortcomings. And in the process you’ll see how the church can impact today’s world.
Who wrote this book?
Paul, the apostle.
To whom was it written?
Christians in Corinth, an important commercial city in Greece.
Why was it written?
Two or three years after leaving the church he’d started in Corinth, Paul heard disturbing reports: Strife and division were seriously threatening the young church. Some had become spiritually arrogant, leading to further problems such as sexual misconduct, wrongs against other believers, abuse of spiritual gifts and misunderstanding of basic Christian teachings. Paul wrote this letter to restore balance to the church.
When was it written?
Probably in AD 55, at the close of Paul’s three-year stay in Ephesus.
What to look for in 1 Corinthians:
Paul gave the Corinthians what they needed: straightforward advice. Watch for direct, practical information relevant to Christian living and church relationships. You will also encounter great inspiration in these pages. Much of what the Bible has to say about spiritual gifts is found here. It also offers uplifting words about love (13:1–13) and the future resurrection (15:12–57).
