1 Corinthians·Chapter 1

How to Apply

To live out this verse, think about ways you can connect with others this week. Maybe it’s reaching out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while or volunteering your time to help a neighbor. Focus on building those relationships without keeping score. If you’re part of a group or team, be the one who encourages unity and connection. Remember, it’s not about how many people you know; it’s about the quality of those relationships. So, go make a meaningful connection today! It could be as simple as sharing a meal or having a heart-to-heart conversation with someone.

Chapter Context

Now, let's take a step back and see how this moment fits into the bigger story. Paul is writing a letter to the church in Corinth, and there’s a lot of tension among the people. They’re divided, arguing about who they follow—Paul or someone else. By mentioning the baptism of Stephanas’ household, Paul is emphasizing that it’s not about him or any leader; it’s about the community coming together in faith. This line is a pivot point, reminding everyone that their focus should be on their shared beliefs rather than on individual accolades. It's like he's saying, 'Hey, we’re all in this together, no need to pick sides!'

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• baptize - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• also - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• household - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• stephanas - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• beyond - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• know - 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".
• else - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

When you think about your own connections, how can you focus more on the relationships you’re building rather than the titles or roles you hold? What’s one step you can take this week to foster that sense of community?

Related Verses

• Acts 2:41 - On the first day of the church, many people were baptized, showing the power of community in faith.
• Matthew 28:19 - This verse shares Jesus’ command to baptize all nations, emphasizing that baptism is a communal act and not just personal.
• Romans 12:5 - This talks about being part of one body, which connects to how Paul encourages unity among believers, just like he does here.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in 1 Corinthians 1:16. 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.