When children are growing up, no one expects them to act like adults. We expect a certain amount of clumsiness, foolishness, and lack of self-control. We identify these problem areas in our kids’ lives and do the hard work of teaching and discipline to help them to mature (Proverbs 13:1, 24; 19:18; 22:6, 15; 23:13; 29:15). If a child is older and is still acting immaturely, we remind them that it’s time to “act their age,” and to behave in accordance with what they have been taught. This passage continues a critique Paul has for the Corinthians as they divide into teams (1 Corinthians 1:10-13), based on which leader they like best. He shows the Corinthians how they are thinking more like the people of the world, who constantly act out of their sinful nature (2:14). It is time for the Corinthians to “grow up” in their understanding of church leaders.
1 Corinthians 3:1-9
Servants of Jesus
March 19, 2023 • Scotty Valiani • 1 Corinthians 3:1–9
1 Corinthians 1:1-9
February 12, 2023 • Brent Stephens • 1 Corinthians 1:1–9
Though the church of Corinth has some major issues that must be addressed, Paul begins his letter with some encouraging words. To center the entire letter of 1 Corinthians upon the gospel, Paul’s first words to the Corinthians are not rebukes but reminders. Paul wants the Corinthians to know that despite the messiness of their church, God’s grace hasn’t changed. These believers are being sanctified and sustained by Jesus for the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 1:10-17
February 19, 2023 • Brent Stephens • 1 Corinthians 1:10–17
After addressing the church of Corinth with a warm greeting, Paul now directs his attention to a major problem that exists within the church. The warmth of his welcome is over, and his stern rebuke will now be heard. As a rope becomes unraveled when its cords are disunited, so the church in Corinth is on the verge of unraveling because of disunity. Paul addresses this now, and the other things he brings up in the first four chapters of 1 Corinthians all stem from this topic. Therefore, it is best to view this section as somewhat of an introduction to the first part of the letter (1 Corinthians 1:10-4:21).
1 Corinthians 1:18-25
February 26, 2023 • Brent Stephens • 1 Corinthians 1:18–25
God’s chosen Messiah being crucified on a criminal’s cross is the greatest scandal in the history of the universe. Such a scandal cannot be understood or believed by the natural mind. That is why in 1 Corinthians 1:18, Paul tells the church that when it comes to hearing and responding to the gospel, there are only two groups of people. Some find it to be useless—those who are perishing. And to some, the gospel is the power of God—those who are being saved.