In this introduction to the book of 1 Corinthians, we learn that God can meet us where we are, even in the murkiest of places. Those who know Him are called to shine as beacons of light, holding out the abundant grace of God in a dark world.

In this letter to the Corinthian church, the Apostle Paul contrasts the wisdom of man, based on human experience and speculation, with the wisdom of God, revealed most poignantly in the cross. In His wisdom, God chose to use Jesus' crucifixion, which may seem like foolishness to the world, so that we might not boast, but approach God in humility, leading to salvation.

After contrasting God's wisdom with human wisdom, the Apostle Paul teaches the Corinthians that Godly wisdom can only be obtained through the Holy Spirit, alive within those who have trusted themselves to Jesus. We can grow in spiritual maturity as the Spirit transforms our mind to align with God's way of thinking.

When the Holy Spirit enters our life as a believer in Christ, we become born again as spiritual infants. Over time, as we cooperate with God, the Spirit will grow us into mature believers, transforming our thinking and values as we regularly ingest the Word of God found in the Bible.

As the early church faces budding factions as members rally around different charismatic leaders, Paul warns them against such division and urges them to remember that it is not the people doing the primary work, but God. Likewise, the church today should be on alert for a similar division and should strive to combat egotism, and instead recognize our proper place as instruments in God's plan, looking forward to God's greater reward.

The Apostle Paul urges the Corinthian church to set aside their pride and unrighteous judgment, and instead live a life devoted to following Christ. When we choose to do likewise and reprioritize our life to align with God's values, we can experience a truly fulfilling life, far richer than anything worldly success can bring.

Paul addresses a case of serious immorality within the Corinthian church and challenges the group to take a firm stand against it, for the good of both the community and those involved in the sin. Although it runs against the grain of our culture, the church today must set similar boundaries, and not shy away from loving discipline in order to maintain an authentic, vibrant community of God's people. Various levels of discipline are discussed.

The Apostle Paul addresses the unhealthy ways the Corinthian church was handling conflicts with one another. Because conflict is inevitable whenever there are close relationships, we, too, will certainly face conflict at times. Eight steps for resolving conflict in a Biblical way can not only save our relationships but allow our lives and churches to bring glory to God in the midst of conflict.

The Apostle Paul urges the church in the immoral city of Corinth to live out their sexuality in a manner consistent with who they are in Christ. These timeless principles are relevant for us today, in a culture that's view of sex is distorted and opposed to God's design. If we allow him, God will change our mind and behavior so that we can be free from the damaging effects of sexual sin, healed of past hurts, and free to experience truly fulfilling sex, the way God intended.

The Apostle Paul teaches the Corinthian church about God's design for sex and marriage, as well as his views on divorce--topics as useful and relevant today as they were then.

Paul addresses a conflict within the Corinthian church regarding food sacrificed to idols, revealing that, when it comes to moral grey areas, the issue isn't right or wrong, but rather avoiding division and judgment. For today's Christian, this means enjoying our freedom in Christ and using it, not to satisfy selfish desires, but rather to serve others in love, and resisting any attempt to go beyond what God has revealed in his written word.

The Apostle Paul explains to the Corinthians how he makes the message of Christ relevant to both Jews and Gentiles in the different cultures he encounters. In the same way, Christians today should not seek to change culture, nor create their own Christian sub-culture, but rather find ways to show how the gospel message is compatible with culture in many ways while being careful not to adopt anti-biblical cultural values.

Paul explains to the Corinthian church the need to persevere in living a life for Christ. This means setting aside the things that interfere with our walk with God, living for eternal rewards rather than earthly treasures, and depending on God to transform us into spiritually productive followers of Jesus.

Many believe the Bible teaches a misogynistic worldview, like many cultures and religions throughout history--and this chapter is often cited as evidence. However, upon closer examination, we see that the Apostle Paul has a very high view of women and that, in reality, the Bible promotes a level of equality and respect unprecedented for its time.

Paul addresses an instance of inappropriate taking of Communion in the Corinthian church. With misunderstanding of communion prevalent today, it is important to examine what Communion is and isn't.

The Apostle Paul explains the biblical model of Christian fellowship, which depicts the church as a living organism comprised of unique, but interconnected members. Each person has a God-given part to play and is endowed with spiritual giftings, for the building up of the church.

The Apostle Paul presents the biblical model of the church as the Body of Christ--a diverse organism in which every part has a unique and essential role and all are welcome.