1 Corinthians
Audience
Paul addresses the church of God at Corinth, described as sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints. He corrects divisions, conduct, and worship within that church; promises about gifts and identity do not cancel his warnings or commands.
Key References
Explore the Structure
Explore the structure of each book.
| Section | Focus | Connection to the whole |
|---|---|---|
| Divisions and God's wisdom 1 Corinthians 1:1–4:21 Interpretation | The cross and faithful ministry | Paul confronts party loyalty by directing the church to Christ crucified and by redefining ministers as servants accountable to God. |
| The church's conduct 1 Corinthians 5:1–6:20 Interpretation | Discipline, disputes, and the body | Cases of immorality and litigation expose conduct inconsistent with the church's calling and the readers' belonging to Christ. |
| Questions about marriage 1 Corinthians 7:1–40 Interpretation | Faithfulness within one's calling | Paul answers questions about marriage and differing circumstances, distinguishing commands, permission, and his judgments within the discussion. |
| Liberty and responsibility 1 Corinthians 8:1–11:1 Interpretation | Idolatry, conscience, and others' good | Questions about idol food lead through Paul's own example to warnings from Israel and the command to flee idolatry while seeking others' benefit. |
| Order in the assembly 1 Corinthians 11:2–14:40 Interpretation | Honour, the supper, love, and gifts | Paul corrects gathered conduct and the use of spiritual gifts, making love and the church's edification central. |
| The resurrection 1 Corinthians 15:1–58 Interpretation | Christ raised and believers' hope | Paul answers denial of resurrection by joining the risen Christ with the future resurrection and transformation of those who belong to Him. |
| Collection and closing directions 1 Corinthians 16:1–24 Interpretation | Shared service and steadfast love | Practical arrangements, commendations, and final exhortations connect the corrected church with the wider fellowship of believers. |
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.