1 Corinthians and Community


Outline:

Recap:



Covering two of the main issues in 1 Corinthians:

1. Unity:
  • The first thing Paul discusses to the Corinthians in this letter (1 Cor. 1:10-18)
  • Issue of belonging- which group/teacher do you follow (1 Cor. 1:12)
  • Paul points out that ultimately the community is called to follow only one: Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 1:13-17)
2. Gifts of the Spirit:
  • Covered in 1 Corinthians 12-14
  • Unity yet diversity in gifts as the all come from the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:4)
  • Gives a focus to the individual
  • At the same time, the gifts are meant to be used for the community
  • Body and Members analogy in 1 Cor. 12:12-31
  • Gifts aren't the most important thing, but the Love behind them (1 Cor. 13)
Conclusion:
  • Each given our own gifts by God
  • Those gifts are meant to help and hold up the community
  • Called to be as one in community
  • Called to belong to Christ Jesus and not be divided