16 May - 1 Corinthians 1

We start a new book today! 1 Corinthians chapter 1. Before we jump into this letter Paul wrote to the church in Corinth let’s briefly describe the setting. Corinth was geographically positioned to be an extremely successful city. It was a crossroads between land and sea goods being shipped and sold. Because of this Corinth became a great commercial center. Luxuries from all over the world were available, and the vices of the world were also found there. However, these evils did not all have to be imported; the temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love, was nearby with 1,000 cult prostitutes who sold themselves in the name of their religion. Corinth was also an extremely well placed city for tactical advantage, if war should occur. The fortress was so secure it was never taken by force until the invention of gun-powder. So Corinth was a proud city that was full of every indulgence one could desire. This could make for a difficult place to thrive as a Christian if one didn’t stay focused on God. Now that we have a picture of the city let’s talk about Paul’s letter:

1. Paul starts this letter to the church in Corinth by asking them to maintain their unity and not cause division in the church. This is something we need to remember today too. There will always be disagreements in any church but it must be resolved with unity in mind. 
2. Some people in Corinth were boasting about being “followers” of different teachers. Paul tells them that it doesn’t matter who told you about Jesus; Jesus is the focus. Only Jesus died for you and forgives your sins; so only he should be praised and honored. Only Jesus is worth following.
3. Lastly, Paul tells them to remember the life God has rescued them from. We would do well to remember the life we previously lived before choosing to follow Jesus; to remember the mercy we needed God to show us. This keeps us humble and helps us to not judge others for their short comings either. 

Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthian believers because he has heard some unsettling accounts of their actions. The followers of Jesus there were getting distracted by silly arguments and the temptations that surrounded them in Corinth. Paul started the church and so had a heart for those people. He wanted to see them grow into the people Jesus wants them to be. Can you identify with any of his points from chapter 1? Is it easier to focus on the person who leads you spiritually rather than Jesus? Remember Paul’s words; only Jesus is worth following. Can you remember the life Jesus rescued you from? When we decide to follow Jesus all our sins are forgiven. So we don’t have to live with the guilt of our past but it’s good for us to remember where we came from so we always appreciate the grace God offers us. Ask God to keep you humble and thankful for his mercy and grace.