May 1, 2013

STJ Adult Bible Study

Subj: 1st Corinthians 1-3

Intro: Without Paul’s presence, the Corinthian church had fallen into divisiveness and disorder. This resulted in many problems, which Paul addressed squarely. We must be concerned for unity and order in our local churches, but we should not mistake inactivity for order and cordiality for unity. We too must squarely address problems in our churches.

Chapter 2

  1. What style of preaching did Paul use to convince the church at Corinth? (vs. 4-5) Why?
  1. What does Paul mean by “God’s Secret Wisdom” in verse 7? See Also: 1st Peter 1:10-12
  1. Do we know all that God has planned for us, who are loved and called according to His purpose? Why?(vs. 9)
  1. Non-Believers cannot understand God and they cannot grasp the concept that God’s Spirit lives in believers. Don’t expect most people to approve of or understand your decision to follow Christ.
  1. No one can comprehend God (Romans 11:34), but through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we as believers, have insight into some of God’s plans, thoughts, and actions—we in fact, have the “mind of Christ.”

Chapter 3

  1. Why did Paul call the Corinthians infants? (vs. 1-3) Please know that immature Christians are “worldly, controlled by their own desires; mature Christians/Believers are in tune with God desires.
  1. Again, Paul’s ministry was to plant the seed of the gospel message in people’s hearts. He brought the message of salvation. Apollo’s ministry was to “water”-to help the believers grow stronger in the faith. (vs. 6)
  1. I want you to know that God’s work involves many different individuals with a variety of gifts and abilities. There are no superstars in this task, only team members performing their own special roles. We can become useful members of God’s team by setting aside our desires to receive glory for what we do. We should seek approval from God, not men!
  1. Paul laid the church’s foundation by how? Preaching Jesus! Whoever builds the church must use high quality materials: right doctrine and right living that meet God’s standards.
  1. Paul closes chapter 3 by telling us that the church must not be destroyed by divisions, controversy, or sin.