The New Testament Church 2017-18 The Church at Corinth The New Testament Church 2017-18

Corinth, The City An immoral and idolatrous city. Rich in history and wealthy A major hub in the Roman Empire Temple of Artemis Also temples to Poseidon and Apollo

Church of God at Corinth Established on Paul’s 2nd preaching journey (Acts 18). He persuades both Jews and Gentiles (Acts 18:4) He remains there 18 months (18:11) Acts 18:23ff – Apollos comes there (19:1) while Paul is in Ephesus. Corinth

Church of God at Corinth Paul probably wrote 1 Corinthians while in Ephesus. And 2nd Corinthians, either there or as he was leaving. He likely visited again on his 3rd journey (Acts 20:2-3), also consider the collection for the saints This church was filled with many problems

Problems at Corinth Beware of the influence of society on the church If we are not alert, the character of our society could influence us and corrupt us – moral issues, societal issues, selfishness, etc.

Problems at Corinth They were divided 1 Corinthians 1:10ff Ungodly attitudes and conduct caused this. Manifested in many problems Paul addressed. We need unity – Ephesians 4:1-6, Philippians 2:1-2, cf. Galatians 5:14-15

Problems at Corinth They were carnal 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 This was society and the ways of the world influencing them Worldly philosophies – 1 Corinthians 3:19-21, 1:18-23 Paul’s solution – preach only Christ and Him crucified – 2:1-2, 15:1-4 When churches begin following the philosophies of men…2 Tim. 4:2-4

Problems at Corinth They tolerated immorality 1 Corinthians 5:1-2, there was at least one adulterous relationship that they tolerated or ignored Are the congregations today that will not address immorality (some or all), nor will they deal with the immoral (cf. 1 Corinthians 6:9-10) Heed 1 Corinthians 5:6

Problems at Corinth Selfishness Seen throughout the first letter. Seen in many areas 1) A party spirit (1:10-13) 2) Taking brethren to court (6:5-8) 3) Not considering conscience (8:9-13, 10:29-30) 4) The Lord’s Supper (11:17-34) 5) Competitive & jealous (12-14) Philippians 2:3-4

Problems at Corinth Abuse in worship Their worship was about them Improper partaking of Lord’s Supper (11:17-34, esp. 20-21) With their spiritual gifts, there was a competitive spirit and disorderliness 1 Corinthians 14:33, 40

Problems at Corinth Doctrinal confusion Concerning resurrection (1 Corinthians 15) Paul clarified with the truth – he used fundamental truths and REASON (presented arguments) for the resurrection

Problems at Corinth Paul’s answer to problems:  Rebuke and admonitions  Call to repentance  Call to purity  The need for love  We need each other  Teaching – proper knowledge

Strengths at Corinth They were teachable Consider how they responded to the adulterous relationship (2 Corinthians 2:6-7), they seemed to be responding to his request for their benevolent help

Strengths at Corinth They repented 2 Corinthians 7:9-11 So much so, Paul had to encourage them to reaffirm their love for the brother (2:5-8)

Strengths at Corinth They were benevolent 2 Corinthians 8:6-15, cf. 1 Corinthians 16:1-4 Willing to help others

Strengths at Corinth They stood with the gospel 1 Corinthians 1:4-9 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 2 Corinthians 2:9, he was testing them, whether they would be obedient in all things 2 Corinthians 7:14-15, their obedience

Concluding thoughts We can learn from this congregation how to deal with problems Corinth, even with their problems and errors, were important to him. He didn’t just “write them off”, but worked with them to change. He wrote with a confidence that they WOULD change. Let us consider this as we address problems and concerns

How are we doing as we strive to be the body of Christ here? 1 Corinthians 15:58 How are we doing as we strive to be the body of Christ here?