Letters to Churches: messages from God

1. Letters to Churches:messages from God Corinth – Source and Solution for Church Problems.

2. Sources of problem: 1:10-31 2:1-5 3:5-10, 18-23 4:1-7, 18 Suggested solutions Revere revelation only Men only messengers No new information Wary of the wise… Problems of division & factions 1 Cor. 1-4

3. Sources of problem: 5:1-2, 6 Suggested solutions: Mourn over and separtate from sin. Problems with immorality 1 Cor. 5-6

4. Sources of problem: 8:1-3, 7-13 Suggested solutions: Love edifies… Edify your brother! Problems with idolatry Note: Paul’s boasting & humiliation. (9:15-23, 27) 1 Cor. 8

5. Sources of problem: Still, the common problem: Idolatry 10:12-13 10:23-24, 29, 31-33 Suggested solutions: No excuses for own failings … confess. Be selfless – not self seeking. Problems with temptation 1 Cor. 10

6. Sources of problem: 11:18-19 - divisions 11:21-22 - haughty 11:28 – self-satisfied Suggested solutions: Focus on the Lord Care for each other Problems with the Lord’s supper 1 Cor. 11

7. Sources of problem: 12:15-37 13:1-3, 4-5 14:2, 20 14:30-35 Suggested solutions: Understand membership. Fulfill the Lord’s purpose. Problems with spiritual gifts/tongues 1 Cor. 12-14

8. Pride could contribute to other probs.: • Desecrating our bodies & suing bro. (ch.6) • Marriage question (ch.7) • Women’s role & covering (ch.11) • Questioning the resurrection (ch.15) • Hindrances to benevolence (ch.16)

9. 2 Corinthians • Comfort & encourage church after its repentance and suffering in the gospel. • Collection for the needy saints in Judea • Paul must defend his apostleship because of persistent accusers and enemies. We can change & do better!

10. The solution is found in: • Humility • In selfless service • With a spiritual focus • Commitment to revelation We can change and do better!