Like a good detective, let's examine this book.

🔥 Overview

The letter to the church in Corinth is one of four letters Paul sends to this church. Paul's goal is to bring harmony to division. The church in Corinth needs a lot of help and Paul gives straightforward answers so they can find harmony in diversity.

🔍 Things to Notice

• Corinth is a large port city. It was known as the "Las Vegas" of its day.
• There are several divisions plaguing this church.
• Paul lays out one of the most comprehensive guides to public worship that is still used today.
• This is not the first letter Paul has sent to Corinth. It is likely his second.

🙏 Jesus in this Book

(Every book reveals the glory of God, displayed in Christ Jesus)

• Jesus is our King and Rallying Point. He is the Great Unifier.

👀 Themes

• Can't we all just get along?!
• Do all for the glory of God.
• Worship God with decency and order.
• Honor each other.
• Don't play with sin.

😀 Who?

Who wrote it: Paul.

Who is the original audience: The church in Corinth.

🪧 Where?

Where are we: Corinth is a large port city in Asia Minor. Paul is likely in Ephesus when he hears the news of trouble in Corinth. It is there he writes this letter.    

⏳ When?

When was it written: Approximately 55 AD.

🤔 What?

What is the big idea: Paul hears disturbing reports about division and various other issues. Paul is writing to help the Corinthian church find unity in diversity. They need instruction for various issues, possibly due to their varied backgrounds. Paul provides guidance and "ground rules" for a church in harmony.

🧐 Why?

Why is this book important: Today, the church is more divided than ever. There are so many people from so many different backgrounds and have so many different ideas. We need to find common ground and do all for the glory of God. Paul isn't just writing to them. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, he is writing to us. Let's learn how to have harmony in the midst of diversity.

📝 How?

How can I apply it?: It is no doubt the large, carnal culture of the "Las Vegas of the ancient" world had an effect on the church. Just like then, we have influences from our culture too. Paul is challenging the church not to give in to the dictates of the culture or what is considered current. He challenges them to reach for the timeless truth of God's Word. We should do the same. Fads and cultures shift and change all the time. God's Word stays true throughout the centuries. Aligning ourselves around God's Word helps us find harmony in the midst of diversity.