Approaching the Bible [Part 14]: First Corinthians

Read Aloud

In Part 14 of Approaching the Bible, we move into the powerful and practical letter of 1 Corinthians — a book written by the Apostle Paul to a young church struggling with division, confusion, and growing pains. Even though it was written nearly 2,000 years ago, its lessons on unity, humility, love, and spiritual maturity speak directly to the challenges believers face today.

A Church in Conflict

Corinth was a booming, diverse, and morally chaotic city. The church reflected that environment — talented but divided. Some followed Paul, others Apollos, others Peter. Paul writes to remind them that the foundation of the church is not a personality, but Christ alone.

“Let there be no divisions among you… Is Christ divided?” (1 Cor. 1:10,13)

Wisdom That Comes From God

The Corinthians valued impressive speech and worldly wisdom. Paul refocuses them on the power of the cross, which seems foolish to the world but is the very power of God. Spiritual maturity begins with humility and dependence on God’s Spirit.

The Call to Holy Living

Paul addresses tough issues — immorality, lawsuits, marriage, and personal freedom. Instead of giving rigid rules, he teaches a heart posture:

Use your freedom to honor Christ, not yourself.

Spiritual Gifts and the Body

One of the most famous sections of the book reminds believers that every gift matters and every believer has a role.

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.” (1 Cor. 12:4)

The church is healthiest when each person uses their God-given gifts to build up the whole body.

Love — The Greatest of All

Chapter 13 is one of the most beautiful passages in all of Scripture. Paul reminds us that without love — real, patient, sacrificial love — everything else is meaningless.

“Love never fails.” (1 Cor. 13:8)

It is a call to elevate love above talent, knowledge, or achievement.

The Power of the Resurrection

Paul closes with a strong reminder of the resurrection — the core of our faith. Because Christ rose, we have hope, purpose, and victory.

“Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” (1 Cor. 15:58)

Takeaway

1 Corinthians teaches us how to live out faith in a complicated world — with unity, humility, holiness, love, and hope rooted in the resurrection. It calls believers not just to know God’s Word, but to apply it in relationships, church life, and everyday decisions.