Paul is setting out to deal with various divisive factors in the life of the church at Corinth. What is significant, therefore, about his approach in v 1-9? What can we learn from these verses about our privileges and prospects as Christians? Answer: The first thing of note is how Paul has once again stated his privilege and God given right to be an apostle. This is, as I have learned, something he does in most all his letters. He then continues to set up the letter by telling them that he is thankful that they will be seen blameless on the day of judgment. That Christ is revealed to them, and they will be kept strong.
What were the main causes of the dissensions in the church at Corinth? See v 10-17; cf. 3:3-4, 21. How can similar dissensions arise in church life today? According to this passage why are they fundamentally wrong and what is the remedy for them? Answer: The division arises from differences in understanding or doctrinal beliefs. Cephus, or Peter, was the “rock” of the early church, and many of “his followers” were believed to be Jewish Christians. Apollos was sent to Corinth to help the other disciples spread the Word. They are fundamentally wrong because the cross would mean nothing if we followed man and not Christ. They are needing to understand that there are many parts to a body and they all work together for God’s will.
Note: V12. Apollos was a Jew from Alexandria, a center of philosophy. He was a man of learning and eloquence, and very able in argument. See Acts 18:24-28. It seems probable that some at Corinth preferred him to Paul for these reasons.
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