PURPOSE: To point out the issues in the Corinthian church, to present solutions, and to instruct their congregation how to live for Christ in a corrupt society.
AUTHOR: The Apostle Paul
THE ORIGINAL AUDIENCE: The Christian congregation located in Corinth.
THE DATE WRITTEN: Roughly AD 55, close to the end of the Apostle’s 3 year ministry in Ephesus, during his 3rd missionary journey.
THE SETTING: Corinth was the most important city in Achaia. It was a big time cosmopolitan city with a seaport and major trade center. Sadly, it was also laced with idolatry and immorality. This particular church was made up largely with Gentiles (non-Jews). Paul planted this church during his 2nd missionary journey thru the region.
NOTE: This letter is recognized as a strong, straight-forward letter.
True followers of Christ don’t blend in very well with this world. Just as we do today, the Corinthian church members struggled in dealing with the corrupt environment in which they lived. “Paul heard of their struggles and wrote this letter to address their problems, heal their divisions, and answer their questions. Paul confronted them about their sin and their need for corrective action and clear commitment to Christ.” [1]
Confrontation regarding sin and other shortcomings is prominent in Paul’s letter to the church in Corinth. He cautioned the believers there NOT to blend in with the world, accepting its values and lifestyles. They were called to live Christ-centered, blameless, loving lives that make a positive impact for God. This is no different that our calling today. Christ is to be the absolute center of our existence, without question or hesitation. To not do so makes a mockery of salvation itself and God’s grace. Christ DIED for you, are you LIVING for him?
Up next is The Blueprint used for 1st Corinthians. Until then, walk with the King and be a blessing.
In His Name & for His Glory,
Richard Keller
Bread of Life Ministries
Resource: The Life Application Study Bible
[1] The Life Application Study Bible; p. 2514.
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