1 Corinthians·Chapter 1

How to Apply

Take a moment this week to reflect on the communities you’re a part of. Are you caught up in following certain 'leaders' or trends? Instead, focus on building genuine relationships with people. Reach out to someone you’ve been meaning to connect with, and have a real conversation. Think about what unites you with others, and emphasize that connection over any titles or roles. It's about cultivating a spirit of unity and understanding, just like Paul encourages.

Chapter Context

This verse is nestled in a chapter where Paul is addressing divisions within the Corinthian church. People were rallying around different leaders, creating a divide that was pulling them apart rather than bringing them together. By expressing gratitude for only baptizing Crispus and Gaius, Paul is emphasizing that it’s not about the leader’s fame or following, but about the unity and message of Jesus. This moment shifts the focus from individual leaders back to the community's shared faith, setting the stage for Paul to encourage them to come together as one.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• thank - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• god - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• that - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• baptized - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• none - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• you - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• crispus - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• gaius - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When you think about the communities you belong to, how do you prioritize genuine connections over popularity? What does that look like for you?

Related Verses

• 1 Corinthians 3:6 - Paul talks about how he planted the seeds of faith, but it’s God who makes them grow. It’s about teamwork, not individual glory.
• Philippians 2:3 - Paul encourages humility and valuing others above yourself, which ties back to the idea of unity over division.
• Matthew 28:19 - Jesus commands his followers to make disciples, emphasizing the importance of community and shared mission, not individual fame.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 1 Corinthians 1:14. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Unity in Christ, Divisions in the Church, Power of the Cross, God's Faithfulness, Human Wisdom vs. Divine Wisdom, Spiritual Gifts, Identity in Christ

Key Verses

1 Corinthians 1:10, 1 Corinthians 1:18, 1 Corinthians 1:25, 1 Corinthians 1:30, 1 Corinthians 1:9

Historical Context

The Corinthian church was established in a cosmopolitan city, filled with cultural and moral complexity. Paul wrote this letter around 55 AD, likely from Ephesus, to address significant issues that arose within the church, including divisions based on allegiance to different leaders, issues of immorality, and confusion regarding spiritual matters. Corinth was known for its wealth and immorality, which influenced the church's behavior and beliefs. Paul's concern was to redirect their focus from human wisdom and societal status back to the foundational truths of the gospel and the unity that should exist among believers in Christ.