Passage Introduction
The church in Corinth was Paul's problem child church. The church had strife, conflict, and division. At times they tolerated sin in their midst. There was confusion over spiritual gifts. Some members of the church though they were better or more spiritual than others. Other members of the church struggled under a cloud of doubt and uncertainty about themselves and their standing with God. And these are just a few of the issues that Paul had to deal with repeatedly.
Most Bible scholars believe that Paul actually wrote four letters to the church in Corinth, but that we only have two. They believe that this one is the final one and that the issues in the church had finally been resolved. As you read through this last part of Paul's last letter, notice the note of reconciliation and desire for wholeness and community. Imagine what the church must had gone through and the healing it now enjoyed.
David Dalton
The church in Corinth was Paul's problem child church. The church had strife, conflict, and division. At times they tolerated sin in their midst. There was confusion over spiritual gifts. Some members of the church though they were better or more spiritual than others. Other members of the church struggled under a cloud of doubt and uncertainty about themselves and their standing with God. And these are just a few of the issues that Paul had to deal with repeatedly.
Most Bible scholars believe that Paul actually wrote four letters to the church in Corinth, but that we only have two. They believe that this one is the final one and that the issues in the church had finally been resolved. As you read through this last part of Paul's last letter, notice the note of reconciliation and desire for wholeness and community. Imagine what the church must had gone through and the healing it now enjoyed.
David Dalton
Spiritual Practices: Bible Reflection
Overview
As you read through Paul's short conclusion to this letter to the Corinthians, notice that he gives them several quick instructions. These instructions are relevant not only for the church and Corinth, but for anyone who wishes to live in peace and harmony with others.
Practice
Paul gives a total of six instructions in this short section. Find all six and write them out. Put them somewhere you will see them every day. Reflect on them and keep them in the forefront of your mind as you go about your daily activities.
David Dalton
Overview
As you read through Paul's short conclusion to this letter to the Corinthians, notice that he gives them several quick instructions. These instructions are relevant not only for the church and Corinth, but for anyone who wishes to live in peace and harmony with others.
Practice
Paul gives a total of six instructions in this short section. Find all six and write them out. Put them somewhere you will see them every day. Reflect on them and keep them in the forefront of your mind as you go about your daily activities.
David Dalton