These notes are based on the NASB text.

1:1 Paul, called as an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother,
Paul immediately identified himself as the writer of the letter in the typical fashion of the day. He identified himself as an “apostle” (one sent out under the authority of another). Paul was an apostle “by the will of God.” These were Paul’s credentials. One who was “sent” sent the letter. Paul also included the name Sosthenes (a co-worker and not a co-author) in the greeting. Sosthenes was a ruler of the Jewish synagogue in Corinth when Paul visited there. He was beaten by an angry mob (Jews angered by Paul’s success at Corinth) in front of Gallio the proconsul of Achaia (Acts 18:17).

1:2 to the church of God which is at Corinth, to those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling, with all who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:
The recipients of the letter are identified in this verse and referred to as:

[1] “the church of God which is at Corinth”

God had followers [“church”: those called out from] in Corinth, the most unlikely place. “This phrase removes all human tyranny from the control of the church. The church does not belong to the people; the people belong to the church; and the church belongs to God” (Broadman Bible Commentary, Volume 10).

[2] “those who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by calling”

The recipients were people who had been set apart by God and for God.

[3] “with all who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ”

Paul wanted for the readers of his letter to understand that they were a part of something bigger than themselves or their congregation.

1:3 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Grace is God’s unmerited favor. Peace is the result of a proper response to God’s grace. The word “from” denotes the source of grace and peace.

1:4 I thank my God always concerning you, for the grace of God which was given to you in Christ Jesus,
Paul was writing to a church with many problems, but still made it a point to express thanksgiving for them. Paul usually expressed a word of thanksgiving for the recipients of his letters. No thanksgiving is found, however, in Galatians. Paul was continually giving thanks “for the grace of God which was given to [his readers] in Christ Jesus.”

1:5 that in everything you were enriched in Him, in all speech and in all knowledge,

1:6 even as the testimony concerning Christ was confirmed in you.

1:7 so that you are not lacking in any gift, awaiting eagerly the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ,

1:8 who shall also confirm you to the end, blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Because of the grace of God, the Corinthians were enriched in Christ Jesus, especially in the area of speech and knowledge. They were a gifted people. In fact, they were not lacking in any gift. Paul’s hope was that the Corinthians would use their gifts wisely to the extent that they would be found blameless at the second coming of Christ.

1:9 God is faithful, through whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Paul was thankful for the faithfulness of God who called believers into fellowship with His Son. God calls believers into fellowship with His Son and works to perfect believers through His Son (see also Philippians 1:6). This is one of Paul’s many references to Jesus Christ as the Son of God.

1:10 Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree, and there be no divisions among you, but you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgement.

1:11 For I have been informed concerning you, my brethren, by Chloe’s people, that there are quarrels among you.
Paul exhorted the Corinthians in the authority of Jesus Christ. The word “exhort” carries with it the idea of coming along side to help. Paul wanted for the Corinthians to work together to establish unity in the church. Notice Paul’s concerns:

[1] “that you all agree” – Paul had it on good authority (verse 11) that there was no agreement among the Corinthian believers. Instead of agreement there was disagreement and arguing. This disagreement led to the next concern…

[2] “and there be no divisions among you” – The disagreements among the Corinthian believers led to divisions among them. Divisions and factions and schisms characterized the Corinthian church, and these always threaten the life of the church. The Corinthians were divided over several issues, among them…

[A] preachers (1:12-4:21)
[B] immorality (5:1-13)
[C] legal issues (6:1-11)
[D] marriage (7:1-40)
[E] meats and idols (8-10)
[F] worship (11)
[G] spiritual gifts (12-14)
[H] resurrection (15)

1:12 Now I mean this, that each one of you is saying, “I am of Paul,” and “I of Apollos,” and “I of Cephas,” and “I of Christ.”
One of the contentious issues that concerned Paul was the matter of preachers. The Corinthians were quarreling over the matter of preachers! There seemed to be a four-way split. Some claimed that they were loyal to Paul, the founder and former pastor of the church. Others were loyal to Apollos, a gifted evangelist who was an eloquent speaker. Still others were loyal to Cephas. There is no record that Cephas (Peter) was ever in Corinth. Perhaps these were people that had been led to Christ and baptized by Peter and who later moved to Corinth. And finally, there was a group that claimed loyalty to Christ. Either this group was sincerely trying to live above the squabble or represented a hyper-spiritual group within the church. This was a lose/lose situation. No matter whom an individual claimed to be loyal to, including Christ, he would find himself at odds with three-fourths of the church.

1:13 Has Christ been divided? Paul was not crucified for you was he? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?

1:14 I thank God that I baptized none of you except Crispus and Gaius,

1:15 that no one should say you were baptized in my name.

1:16 Now I did baptize also the household of Stephanas; beyond that, I do not know whether I baptized any other.
Paul addressed this divisive issue by asking three rhetorical questions that invited a negative response.

[1] “Has Christ been divided?” The obvious answer is no! There is only one Lord to follow.

[2] “Paul was not crucified for you was he?” The obvious answer is no! Neither was Apollos or Cephas crucified. Their loyalty should have been to the One who made the message possible rather than to the messengers!

[3] “Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?” The obvious answer is no! They were not baptized in the name (authority) of Paul, Apollos, or Cephas. In fact, Paul emphasized that he had baptized very few of the Corinthian believers, something for which he was thankful.

1:17 For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not in cleverness of speech, that the cross of Christ should not be made void.
Here we see that Paul’s main ministry was evangelism. Here also we see the key to unity…preach Christ and the cross! It is only when people focus on the cross that they are able to overcome the attitudes that lead to pride and argument and division.

1:18 For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
The “word of the cross” is a reference to the preaching of the gospel message and to the content of that message. Those who are perishing or who esteem themselves wise by the world’s standards see such a message as “foolish”. But to those who have heard and responded to the gospel message by faith, “it is the power of God” (see also Romans 1:16).

1:19 For it is written, “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and the cleverness of the clever I will set aside.”
This is a quote taken from Isaiah 29:14 (see also Psalm 33:10). Man cannot be saved through human wisdom and understanding. God’s method of providing salvation was a stumbling block to the Jews and utter foolishness to the Greeks, but through such an event God paved the way to heaven.

1:20 Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?
Paul called for a response from those who entertained ideas that the message of the cross was foolishness. They were however, nowhere to be found. God had indeed made their wisdom foolish.

1:21 For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe.
The word “wisdom” here is a reference to God’s plan of salvation. The world is unable to come to know God through its wisdom. But God used the thing that the world thinks foolish (the cross) “to save those who believe.”

1:22 For indeed Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom;

1:23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block, and to Gentiles foolishness,

1:24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

1:25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
It is difficult for some men to accept God’s terms of salvation. And so some seek for signs (something they can see) and others for wisdom (something they can think through). But God’s plan of redemption is Christ crucified. This was difficult for many Jews and Greeks to understand. The phrase “foolishness of God” is a reference to the way in which the world sees the cross. The phrase “weakness of God” is a reference to the death of Jesus on the cross.

1:26 For consider your calling, brethren, that there were not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble;
Here we get some insight into the ordinary people that made up the Corinthian congregation. Paul reminded his readers of what they were. There were not many “wise” (according to the world’s estimation of wisdom), not many “mighty” and not many “noble.”

1:27 but God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong,

1:28 and the base things of the world and the despised, God has chosen, the things that are not, that He might nullify the things that are,

1:29 that no man should boast before God.
None of the things that the world admires can guarantee eternal life. No man can get to God on his own terms or by his own merit. If such were the case, then heaven will be filled with boasting. Instead, God offered salvation in a humble package on the lower shelf of life where it is within reach of the lowly and despised and where the proud must stoop to receive it.

1:30 But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption,

1:31 that, just as it is written, “Let him who boasts, boast in the Lord.”
By God’s doing, according to our response of faith to God’s way of salvation, we are in Christ Jesus who is [1] our wisdom, the way to really know God, [2] our righteousness, the avenue through which we are made right with God, [3] our sanctification, the avenue through which we are set apart for God, and [4] our redemption, the avenue through which we are delivered from darkness and transferred to the light. By virtue of this, one can only boast in the Lord and not in human wisdom.

Practical Considerations

Be a good-finder.
Paul was writing to the Corinthians because of some serious problems in the church. He knew he would have to deal with some tough issues in his letter(s). Thus Paul began his letter by commending and encouraging them before exhorting them. We should always look for the good, even in the midst of bad situations.

Be a good steward.
We have a responsibility to be good stewards of the spiritual gifts that God has given us. We should use them responsibly and for the building up of the body of Christ that we might be found blameless at the coming of Christ.

Be a good influence.
The Corinthian church was split into factions. People in the church were divided over which leader to follow. We have a responsibility to be a good influence in the midst of division and divisive issues. We should work to promote healing and reconciliation in such situations.

These notes are based on the NASB text.

2:1 [Paul’s approach to the Corinthians…] And when I came to you [refers to Paul’s first visit to Corinth (AD 51) during his second missionary journey; Paul founded church in Corinth (Acts 18:1-18)] brethren, I did not come with superiority of speech [the way Paul used words; did not pattern himself after great orators who gained a following on the basis of their oratorical skills] or of wisdom [the words Paul used; did not pattern himself after great philosophers who gained a following on the basis of their philosophical skills], proclaiming to you [note the content of Paul’s message…] the testimony of God.

2:2 [Paul’s aim while with the Corinthians…] For I determined to know nothing among you except [note Paul’s simple message…] Jesus Christ [Christ alone is worthy of our devotion and admiration and loyalty], and Him crucified [the cross is at the heart of God’s redemptive activity; Paul wanted for people to see Jesus clearly].

2:3 [Paul’s attitude among the Corinthians (2:3-5)…] And I was with you [ Corinth was a big and wicked city] in weakness and in fear and in much trembling [Paul recognized that he was personally inadequate to evangelize a wicked city like Corinth].

2:4 And my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom [Paul wanted for his listeners to be impressed with Jesus, not with how great a preacher Paul was; his desire was that people see Christ and glory in Him], but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power [Watchman Nee stated, “Divine work can only be done in dependence upon divine power.”],

2:5 that your faith should not rest on [Paul wanted for the Corinthians to have the right foundation for their faith] the wisdom of men, but on the power of God [cf. Rom. 1:16].

Here we see…

[1] Paul’s approach to the Corinthians (2:1). When he first went to Corinth he did not pattern himself after great orators or philosophers who gained a following on the basis of their philosophical and oratorical skills.

[2] Paul’s aim while with the Corinthians (2:2). Paul determined to preach Christ alone. He did not want for “the word of the cross” to be obscured in oratorical, pedantic, or philosophical fog. He wanted for people to see Jesus clearly.

[3] Paul’s attitude among the Corinthians (2:3-5). Corinth was a big and wicked city. Paul had never preached in a city so large with such a wicked reputation. He experienced the fears that any human being would experience in going to preach the Gospel in such a setting. But he approached his assignment to preach the gospel there in dependence upon the Holy Spirit. Watchman Nee stated, “Divine work can only be done in dependence upon divine power.” That certainly describes Paul’s attitude while in Corinth. Paul’s sincere hope was that the faith of the Corinthians “not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God.” “When the Corinthians heard Paul preach about Christ, they did not say, ‘What a great preacher Paul is.’ Instead, they declared, ‘What a great Christ Paul serves.'” ( Brian Harbour, Bible Book Study Commentary).

2:6 Yet we do speak wisdom among those who are mature [those growing in their understanding of God’s Word]; a wisdom, however, not of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are passing away;

2:7 but we speak God’s wisdom [as opposed to man’s] in a mystery [a truth hidden in the past but now revealed to God’s people], the hidden wisdom, which God predestined [redemption was not an afterthought on God’s part] before the ages to our glory;

2:8 the wisdom which none of the rulers of this age [perhaps a reference to the spiritual and political leaders who did not recognize who Jesus was] has understood; for if they had understood it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory;

2:9 but just as it is written, “Things which eye has not seen and ear has not heard, and which have not entered into the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him.” [our minds cannot begin to conceive or understand God’s wonderful plan for our lives]

2:10 For to us God revealed them [spiritual truths] through the Spirit [see John 16:13] ; for the Spirit searches all things, even the depths of God.

2:11 For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the spirit of the man, which is in him? Even so the thoughts of God no one knows except the Spirit of God [and it is only through the aid of the Holy Spirit that a man can understand the things of God].

2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world [that is, the spirit of human wisdom and power], but the Spirit who is from God [we receive the Holy Spirit upon being born again], that we might know the things freely given to us by God,

2:13 which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit [Paul was speaking what he had been taught by the Holy Spirit], combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words.

2:14 But a natural man [the unbeliever] does not accept [does not have experiential knowledge of; Charles Finney said “they are deaf men judging music.”] the things of the Spirit of God; for they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually appraised [to examine and scrutinize].

2:15 But he who is spiritual [that is, a Spirit-controlled man] appraises all things [he is able to understand the word of God because of the Holy Spirit], yet he himself is appraised by no man [the world, however, does not understand the believer and why he lives as he does].

2:16 For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he should instruct Him? [the obvious answer is “no one”] But we have the mind of Christ [which enables us to understand God better than the natural man].

The world does not understand the cross — God’s divine plus sign. Skeptics, philosophers, and others throughout history have tried to subtract from Christ’s work on the cross. Even the Koran states that Jesus was not crucified (Surah 4:157). That is no small assertion but rather one that has enormous implications. If Jesus was not crucified and subsequently raised from the dead, then our faith is in vain (1 Cor. 15:14).

When Paul arrived in Corinth, he determined to know nothing among the Corinthians “except Jesus Christ and Him crucified” (2:2). He could have easily impressed his Greek listeners with eloquent speech, his brilliant mind, and his persuasive skills as a debater. He did not. Instead, Paul preached the message of the cross in simple and clear terms in dependence on the Holy Spirit. He did not want or need for others to comment on what a great speaker he was. Paul preferred that his listeners focus on Christ and His redemptive work on the cross.

Paul told the Corinthians that those who depend on the spirit of the world, or human wisdom, cannot know what has been freely given to us by God — salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ. When Paul talked about Jesus he did not use words taught by human wisdom because these words are inadequate to explain God’s wisdom. Instead, he used the language of the Spirit—spiritual words—to explain spiritual truths.

Many who heard Paul’s message thought it was foolish. That is because the natural man, or those who are not Christians, cannot understand God’s truths. Before I became a Christian, a young man in one of my high school classes shared his Christian beliefs with me. I could not understand why he believed or lived as he did. Later, when I became a Christian, what that young man had shared made sense to me. God’s Holy Spirit, who lives in believers, helped my understanding. With the Spirit’s help, the message of the cross made perfect sense to me.

Paul said that those who are Christians have the mind of Christ. Christ is the basis and means of understanding and interpreting the meaning of life. His mind was plainly revealed at the cross. Having the mind of Christ affects how a person thinks and lives and enables believers to understand life from Christ’s point of view. However, if believers are to have the mind of Christ, they need to spend time consistently in His presence and in His Word, allowing the Holy Spirit to instruct them.

Believers should seek and trust God’s wisdom as revealed in the Bible. For the believer, spending time in personal and corporate Bible study is not an option. There are no shortcuts to becoming a person who has spiritual insight and discernment. The Holy Spirit is the source of spiritual insight. Only people whom God’s Spirit teaches (John 14:26; 16:13) are able to understand spiritual truths. Those whom the Spirit instructs have the mind of Christ. We must therefore do more than occasionally open our Bibles if we want to have the mind of Christ. We must diligently study and ask God to open our eyes to see wonderful things in His Word (Ps. 119:18).

Practical Considerations

Keep your eyes on the One who made the message possible.
The Corinthians lost sight of the One who made the message of the Gospel possible. Instead they focused on the messenger. Paul reminded the Corinthians that Christ alone is worthy of our devotion and admiration and loyalty.

Do God’s work in dependence upon the Holy Spirit.
Paul did not do God’s work in dependence upon his own strength or natural abilities. He labored for God in the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. His desire was that people see Christ and glory in Him.

These notes are based on the NASB text.

3:1 And I, brethren, could not speak to you as to spiritual men, but as to men of flesh, as to babes in Christ.

Paul spoke to the Corinthians as a spiritual father (see 4:15) speaking to his children. He was concerned about their poor spiritual condition. While the Corinthians thought themselves mature, Paul saw them as immature. They were not Spirit-controlled. They had not grown in their spiritual insight. They were, for all practical purposes, still flesh-controlled individuals. Paul here describes two kinds of saved people:

[1] “spiritual men” – or spiritually mature individuals (Spiritual). Characterized by God-centered concerns.

[2] “men of flesh…babes in Christ” – or spiritually immature individuals (Carnal). Characterized by self-centered interests.

3:2 I gave you milk to drink, not solid food; for you were not yet able to receive it. Indeed, even now you are not yet able,

Regarding the diet of believers:

[1] “milk” – A baby begins with milk because he has no teeth for meat. Some liken “milk” to the elementary teachings of the Word. See Hebrews 6:1-2. Milk is recommended for babies because it helps them grow in respect to salvation (see 1 Peter 2:2).

[2] “solid food” – for spiritually mature individuals. Some liken “meat” to mature Christian teachings.

Paul had approached the Corinthians as babes in need of milk on an earlier occasion. But even at the time of this writing they had made little progress and Paul had to deal with them as babes, still. God expects believers to grow.

3:3 for you are still fleshly. For since there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not fleshly, and are you not walking like mere men?

The Corinthians were not able to receive solid food from Paul because they were “still fleshly.” Their actions, “jealousy and strife,” are listed among the deeds of the flesh in Galatians 5:20 (as are “disputes, dissensions, factions”). Spiritual immaturity is always evidenced in behavior. The Corinthians were acting more worldly and fleshly than spiritual. This was a matter of great concern to Paul, the “father” of this congregation (4:15).

3:4 For when one says, “I am of Paul,” and another, “I am of Apollos,” are you not mere men?

Paul cited the division over personalities to prove his point about the immaturity of the Corinthian believers.

3:5 What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants [“diakonoi” – the word from which we get the word “deacon”] through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one.

Apollos and Paul were servants who faithfully carried out their assigned tasks.

3:6 I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth.

3:7 So then neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but God who causes the growth.

As a part of his continuing efforts to get the Corinthians to refocus their vision on God rather than human leaders, Paul reminded them that both he and Apollos were partners with God in the work. Each did his part but it was God who caused the growth. Therefore only God was worthy of their “followship.” Paul and Apollos were companions in ministry rather than competitors. They both worked for the owner of the farm. Their respective tasks and contributions were important. J. Vernon McGee says, “The important thing is not who the preacher is; the important thing is whether God is using him.”

3:8 Now he who plants and he who waters are one [“The aim, result, and motivating power of their work are identical.”-Rienecker/Rogers]; but each will receive his own reward according to his labor.

Paul wanted for the Corinthians to understand that he and Apollos were on the same team. As such their faithfulness and works would not be judged against one another’s, but against their individual calling, responsibility, and potential. These men were “God’s fellow workers.” They were not in competition with one another. They had a responsibility to allow God to use them. They labored with the assurance that God labored with and through them.

3:9 For we are God’s fellow workers [what a privilege!]; you are God’s field, God’s building.

Paul uses three images to describe the Christian life:

[1] “God’s fellow workers” – Christians are to participate with God in the work of ministry.

[2] “God’s field” – Christians and the church are to be like a productive field.

[3] “God’s building” – Christians and the church are likened to something which has permanence and stability.

3:10 According to the grace of God which was given me [that is, “using the gift that God gave me”], as a wise master builder I laid a foundation, and another is building upon it. But let each man be careful how he builds upon it.

3:11 For no man can lay a foundation other than the one which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

As a church-builder, Paul gave careful attention to the foundation work. He had laid the proper foundation when he established the church at Corinth (see 2:1-5 and 3:11). Later, after Paul had left, Apollos arrived in Corinth and built upon that foundation (see Acts 18:24-28). Paul warned “each man to be careful how he builds upon it.” This is a warning to all who help build and shape the life of the church to work responsibly and faithfully because God will hold them accountable.

3:12 Now if any man builds upon the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones [“Here it means valuable stones for building such as granite and marble.”-Rienecker/Rogers], wood, hay, straw,

3:13 each man’s work will become evident; for the day will show it, because it is to be revealed with fire; and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work.

3:14 If any man’s work which he has built upon it remains, he shall receive a reward.

3:15 If any man’s work [a reference to the Christian’s labor in the church] is burned up, he shall suffer loss; but he himself shall be saved, yet so as through fire [that is, “as one who dashes through the flames safe, but with the smell of fire upon him.”-Rienecker/Rogers].

Since the foundation which has been laid is Jesus Christ (3:11), the next concern is with the materials used to build on that foundation. The foundation of Jesus Christ is solid and unshakeable. Those who serve and invest their lives in the church must see to it that they use the finest building materials to build upon the foundation of Jesus Christ. Warren Wiersbe believes that the reference to “gold, silver, precious stones” is to the doctrines of the Word of God which must be “mined” by the minister. This as opposed to “wood, hay, straw” which have no lasting value and do nothing to strengthen the church. Others believe that “gold, silver, precious stones” is a reference to the kind of service which believers render. Paul reminds every believer that his works will be judged at the judgement seat of God (Romans 14:10). The quality of our service, work, and contribution to the kingdom’s work will be revealed and each servant rewarded accordingly.

Such a passage of Scripture should lead us to do at least three things:

[1] Build something every day. We should heed the words of Paul in Ephesians 5:16, “making the most of your time because the days are evil.” The Latin phrase “carpe diem” reminds us to seize the day!

[2] Employ only the finest building materials in our service to the Lord. This means the cost will be greater. We may have to work harder and longer, give more sacrificially, study more intensely, and serve more devotedly. But we can invest our lives and resources knowing that they will stand the test of fire.

[3] Serve with the knowledge that God, who will reward us accordingly, will one day judge our works. We should not concern ourselves with how much recognition we receive, only with the fact that God notices everything that we do in His name and for His cause. A little piece of gold is not as visible as a big stack of hay, but it will last longer and will survive the test of fire!

3:16 Do you not know that you [as a church, as the believing community] are a temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?

3:17 If any man destroys [impair, mar, ruin] the temple of God, God will destroy him, for the temple of God is holy [“because God has made the church the fellowship that possesses His Spirit” Broadman Bible Commentary, Volume 10], and that is what you [the believing community] are.

Note here that the [corporate] temple is made up of [individual] temples. How is the [corporate] temple of God destroyed? By “jealousy and strife” (3:3) among the [individual] temples and the use of “wood, hay, straw” (3:12) as building material.

3:18 Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you thinks that he is wise in this age [intellectual pride was a cause of the difficulties in Corinth], let him become foolish that he may become wise [that is, become humble enough to learn].

3:19 For the wisdom of this world is foolishness before God [it is unable to meet men’s deepest spiritual needs]. For it is written, “He is the One who catches the wise in their craftiness;”

3:20 and again, “The Lord knows the reasonings of the wise, that they are useless.”

3:21 So then let no one boast in men. For all things belong to you,

3:22 whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come; all things belong to you [so why should the Corinthians limit themselves to a restricted group following one man?],

3:23 and you belong to Christ [all are subject to one leader, Jesus Christ]; and Christ belongs to God.

Practical Considerations

God expects believers to grow.
Just as it would be unnatural for a baby to not grow, it is unnatural for believers to not grow. God expects believers to grow to the point where they can feed themselves and begin feeding others.

Spiritual immaturity cannot be hidden.
Spiritual immaturity cannot be hidden. It will manifest itself in a person’s speech and behavior. Spiritual immaturity is at the root of many problems within the church.

God’s servants must work cooperatively for the glory of God.
Paul and Apollos were faithful to fulfill their assigned tasks of planting and watering, recognizing that God alone caused the growth. We must see ourselves as companions in ministry with other believers rather than as contentious competitors. We must labor together with our fellow believers in the power of the Holy Spirit to the end that God will be glorified.

Carpe Diem!
We should “seize the day” by serving the Lord faithfully and cheerfully. We should seek to labor for the Lord every day to the end that our works will endure the test of fire and glorify God.

4:1 Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Paul described himself, Apollos, and Peter as…

[1] “servants” – from the Greek word “huperatas” meaning “under-rower.” An “under-rower” was an oarsman who served in the lowest level of a trireme or three-banked ship. These men were hidden from view. They were generally slaves who were chained to their post and often perished when ships sank. This word emphasizes service. This word is also used in Acts 26:16.

[2] “stewards” – from the Greek word “oikonomos” or “house manager.” The steward of a household (e.g., Joseph in Genesis 39:4-5) supervised the affairs of a household and was held accountable for the affairs of a household by the owner or master of the house. This word emphasizes responsibility.

Paul employed the terms “servants” and “stewards” to point the Corinthians away from personalities to Christ. The “mysteries of God” is a reference to the revelation of God’s plan of salvation.

Practical Consideration
We should regard ourselves as servants and stewards. Paul likened himself to an under-rower, a galley slave who served as an oarsman at the bottom of a ship. As such, his life was devoted to the service of a higher authority. Paul also likened himself to a steward, an individual charged with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of a household. As such, he labored to serve his master and with the understanding that he would be held accountable for the condition of the household. We too, should regard ourselves in this manner. Only then can we serve humbly and faithfully, knowing that we are under authority of the captain of the ship and the owner of the house.

4:2 In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy.

The most basic requirement for a steward is faithfulness, honesty, dependability, trustworthiness. Notice that Paul did not say it is required of stewards to be eloquent, gifted, good-looking, or popular. The steward of the mysteries of God must faithfully discharge his responsibilities and make the saving message of Christ known to all men. The steward was subject to audit and accountability by his master. A steward should be more concerned about pleasing his master than pleasing other servants or members of the household. We must ask, “Have I been faithful to do the work God has assigned to me?”

4:3 But to me it is a very small thing that I should be examined by you, or by any human court; in fact, I do not even examine myself.

4:4 for I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted; but the one who examines me is the Lord.

4:5 Therefore do not go on passing judgement before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things in the darkness and disclose the motives of men’s hearts; and then each man’s praise will come to him from God.

There were people who were critical of Paul, but the opinions of others were not as important to Paul as what the Lord thought. No man can look into another man’s heart and judge his motives. It is too easy to misread situations and misjudge people. Phillips paraphrases this verse: “But, as a matter of fact, it matters very little to me what you, or any man, thinks of me…”

Even Paul’s opinion of himself was not as important as the Lord’s. Phillips paraphrases this verse, “I don’t even value my opinion of myself…but that doesn’t justify me before God.” Paul knew that although he was aware of no wrong-doing on his part, he might be mistaken. No man can accurately judge himself.

It was the Lord’s judgement that mattered most to Paul. He knew that one day he would be called to give an account of his stewardship. Only God can judge us. He knows absolutely everything there is to know about us (see Psalm 139:1-6).

4:6 Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively applied to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that in us you might learn not to exceed what is written [be careful lest you judge by the wrong standards], in order that no one of you might become arrogant in behalf of one against the other [be careful lest you judge with the wrong motives].

4:7 For who regards you as superior? And what do you have [e.g., the Gospel, spiritual gifts] that you did not receive? But if you did receive it [since God is the giver of all gifts], why do you boast as if you had not received it [there is no room for boasting and pride!]?

4:8 You are already filled [Used ironically, “you think you already have all the spiritual food you need.”-Rienecker/Rogers], you have already become rich, you have become kings without us; and I would indeed that you had become kings so that we also might reign with you.

4:9 For, I think, God has exhibited us [as persons in an arena] apostles last of all, as men condemned to death [as criminals sentenced to death in an arena]; because we have become a spectacle to the world [Paul uses the picture to illustrate the humility and indignity to which the apostles are subjected. God is the one who set up this spectacle and He uses the weakness of His servants in order to demonstrate His power and strength.-Rienecker/Rogers], both to angels and to men.

The series of contrasts beginning in verse 8 was an effort on Paul’s part to humble his proud readers. Paul employed a bit of sarcasm to get his point across to believers who thought they had already arrived!. He likened the Corinthians to kings who thought they were very important and himself/apostles as prisoners who must suffer for Christ in the arena and who live lives of self-giving and sacrifice as we see in the following verses.

4:10 We are fool’s for Christ’s sake, but you are prudent in Christ; we are weak, but you are strong; you are distinguished, but we are without honor.

4:11 To this present hour we are both hungry and thirsty, and are poorly clothed, and are roughly treated, and are homeless;

4:12 and we toil, working with our own hands [“A practice highly regarded by the Jews but held in contempt by Greeks, including some of the Corinthians.” – Broadman Bible Commentary, Volume 10]; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure;

4:13 when we are slandered, we try to conciliate; we have become as the scum [“Used to designate despised men sacrificed to gods to ward off calamity…some scholars suggest it should be translated scapegoats.” -BBC, Vol. 10] of the world, the dregs of all things, even until now.

The Corinthians proudly associated themselves with their favorite leader (see 1 Corinthians 1:12 and 3:4), but they did not realize what it meant to be associated with an apostle. Warren Wiersbe captures the thought: “If you associate with us, you had better be ready for suffering. We apostles are not held in honor – we are despised!”

4:14 I do not write these things to shame you, but to admonish you as my beloved children.

Paul’s motive was not to shame the Corinthians, but to help them to realize and understand what they were doing and how their attitudes and actions were destroying them.

4:15 For if you were to have countless tutors in Christ, yet you would not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.

4:16 I exhort you therefore, be imitators of me.

Paul felt that he had the right to speak to the Corinthians as he did because of his unique relation to them. Though they might have many instructors, he alone was their spiritual father. He had founded the church at Corinth. He had taken the light of the Gospel to them. As such, Paul urged them to imitate him. Paul’s example was certainly worthy of imitation because Paul imitated Christ (see 1 Corinthians 11:1 and Philippians 3:17). Paul’s admonition was born out of his love for his spiritual children.

4:17 For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, who is my beloved and faithful child in the Lord, and he will remind you of my ways which are in Christ, just as I teach everywhere in every church.

It was kind of Paul to use the word “remind” in this verse. He gave the Corinthians the benefit of the doubt by suggesting “that they had not deliberately disregarded his teachings, merely that they had forgotten them and needed to be reminded.” (M.J. Berquist) Timothy was faithful and qualified to remind them of Paul’s spiritual and moral teachings. Some interpreted that since Paul was sending Timothy, he was afraid to come to them. This caused some to become arrogant and to continue to offer wrong leadership to the church.

4:18 Now some have become arrogant [puffed up like a pair of bellows], as though I were not coming to you [the reason why some had become arrogant].

4:19 But I will come to you soon, if the Lord wills [Paul’s agenda was directed by God], and I shall find out, not the words of those who are arrogant, but their [spiritual] power.

4:20 For the kingdom of God does not consist in words [especially in the empty talk the Corinthians engaged in], but in [spiritual] power.

4:21 What do you desire [the choice is yours, because I am coming – see 1 Corinthians 16:5-9]? Shall I come to you with a rod [The figure indicates severity and is intended as a warning. -Lenski. As their spiritual father, Paul was responsible for disciplining his spiritual children.] or with love and a spirit of gentleness?

Hebrews 13:1-3

13:1 Keep on [remain; do not let love fall by the wayside] loving [Gr. philia + adelphos] each other as brothers [treat one another as family members].

13:2 Do not forget [become unmindful] to entertain [treat as a family member; hospitality was important because few inns; do this out of brotherly love rather than out of a sense of duty; use discretion as per 2 John 7-11] strangers [visiting brethren, ministers, believers driven from their homes by persecution; see also Matt. 25:35], for by doing some people [like Abraham in Gen. 18:1-15] have entertained angels [messengers: a guest can turn out to be a messenger of God’s blessings to us] without knowing it.

Note: See Titus 1:8 and Romans 12:13 for additional insight into hospitality. Also read 2 John (warns against entertaining false teachers) and 3 John (offers guidelines for hospitality).

13:3 Remember those [believers] in prison [as a result of their Christian faith; see Matt. 25:36] as if [Golden Rule, Matt. 7:12] you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated [persecution other than imprisonment] as if you yourselves were suffering [see 1 Cor. 12:26].

Hebrews 13:7

13:7 [1] Remember your leaders [possibly leaders who had died, possibly by martyrdom], who spoke the word of God to you. [2] Consider [observe] the outcome [can refer to the sum total of what one has done in life] of their way of life and [3] imitate their faith.

Hebrews 13:17-18

13:17 Obey [listen to, follow] your leaders and submit [yield] to their authority. [reasons to submit include…] [1] They [under-shepherds] keep watch [lose sleep] over you as [2] men [stewards] who must give an account [to the “great Shepherd”; see 1 Peter 5:1-4]. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden [groan or anguished sigh], for that would be of no advantage [unprofitable; harmful] to you.

Note:
• This exhortation may suggest that church members were not supporting their leaders.
• Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13.
• Recommended reading: Spiritual Authority by Watchman Nee.

13:18 Pray for us [indicates the writer of Hebrews was a church leader]. We are sure [persuaded; confident] that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.

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On Hospitality

H = Heart | Offering hospitality to strangers was a moral imperative and sacred duty in Bible times. God told His people to show their “love for the alien” because they had been “aliens in the land of Egypt” (Lev. 19:34; Deut. 10:19). They knew what it meant to be treated harshly and unjustly. Hospitality is a matter of the heart — of extending to others the kind of care we would want for others to extend to us, especially in difficult circumstances and hostile places.

O = Openness | Offering hospitality requires that we have an openness to those in need. Jesus said that at the judgment He “will say to those on His right … I was a stranger and you invited Me in” (Matt. 25:34-35). And “to those on His left … I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in” (Matt. 25:41-42). Mother Teresa defined her mission as looking for Jesus in the distressing disguise of the poor and then showing hospitality to those individuals.

S = Sent | People in Old Testament times believed guests were sent to them from God. Abraham showed this attitude when he entertained three strangers who proved to be angels (Gen. 18). The writer of Hebrews admonished his readers to “show hospitality to strangers” as Abraham had done, “for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Heb. 13:2).

P = Philoxenos | The Greek word for hospitality is “philoxenos” — from the words “philo” (love) and “xenos” (stranger or guest). This word means “lover of strangers or guests” and conveys the idea of enjoying being a host. Our English word hospitality is from the Latin word “hostis” which means “enemy or stranger.” The Latin word “hospitem” can refer to a host or guest. Hospitals were originally hostels or hospices, places where pilgrims travelling to the Holy Land found a friendly reception.

T = Table | The table is central to hospitality. Abraham and Sarah prepared a meal for their guests (Gen. 18:2-8). One of the first things a host did was to offer a guest something to drink (Gen. 24:17-18) and then a meal (Gen. 26:30). Lot prepared a meal for his guests (Gen. 19:3). As Christ-followers, we should do the same (Mark 9:41).

A = Acceptance | A remarkable feature of hospitality in Biblical times was receiving an enemy as a guest. Some cultures have a rule that an enemy who has dismounted and touched the rope of a single tent is safe. Enemies enjoyed the same protection as friends (Gen. 19:4-8). I have been a guest in many Muslim homes on my travels. Once, while in the mountains of Pakistan, our host assured us of his protection. “You are my guest,” he said, “and I offer you my food and assure you of my protection.” I felt accepted and safe (Ps. 23:5).

I = Insight | While the Bible encourages hospitality, it also offers a word of caution to those who offer hospitality. In 2 John 10 we read, “If anyone” [a traveling teacher] comes to you and does not bring this teaching [probably refers to the teaching about the incarnation (see verse 7)], do not take him into your house [do not offer shelter and lodging; keep them at a distance because they can endanger the spiritual health of the home and the church] or welcome [in either a private or official way; to give a welcome indicates fellowship and solidarity] him.”

3 John 5 offers this encouragement about opening our homes to God’s servants: “Dear friend [refers to Gaius], you are faithful in what you are doing [Gaius’ service was really a service to Jesus Christ (cf. Matt. 10:40; 25:34-40)] for the brothers [traveling ministers or missionaries; sincere ministers of the gospel as opposed to the false teachers of 2 John; read 1 Cor. 16:6; Titus 3:13], even though they are strangers [same as “brothers” in the first part of this verse; cf. Heb. 13:2] to you.”

T = Time | In Biblical times, a host devoted time to his guests. Guests did not expect privacy and would feel ill-treated or deserted if left alone, even at night. Because people slept with their clothes on, a male host and family members would sleep in the same room as their male guests.

Y = Yes | Offering hospitality seems to be an increasingly difficult thing in our culture. Our calendars are so full that we hardly have time to say yes to guests. Yet, unless we do so our children may not learn the importance of showing hospitality to guests or how to do so. So, let’s heed Paul’s advice in Romans 12:13 and practice, or pursue, hospitality.

Hebrews 12: 1-3

12:1 Therefore [links what follows to the examples (see Hebrews 11) of those who persisted in serving God], since we are [three things that motivate and help us to “run with perseverance” include: 1] surrounded by such a great cloud [a great number or assembly of people] of witnesses [not spectators but witnesses or those whose lives bear witness to us of what God can do; Gr. martyron: those saints listed in Heb. 11 who were tried by difficulties; follow the example of those who have run well], [2] let us throw off [remove: athletes removed superfluous flesh through training and excess clothes in competition] everything [broad application; includes things which, though good and right, can become a hindrance to spiritual progress] that hinders [keeps you from living a faithful Christian life] and [in addition] the [any] sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance [indicates that the race is difficult] the race [contest; struggle; not a short race but a marathon; see 1 Cor. 9:24-25; Phil. 3:13-14; 2 Tim. 4:7] marked [path of faithfulness; stay in your lane; do not veer of your path] out for us [not all are entered in the same event but all must be faithful in their event].

Note: To run the race successfully, remember to…
A. Look around at the winners (12:1a)
B. Look at yourself (12:2)
C. Look at Jesus Christ (12:3)
(Warren Wiersbe)

12:2 [3] Let us [deliberately look away from one thing (distractions) to another (Jesus)] fix our eyes [focus] on Jesus [not on people], the author [chief; leader; captain; pioneer; originator] and perfecter [the one who inspires, leads, and enables us to reach the goal] of our faith, who [persisted in staying on the path the Father had set for Him] for [because of] the joy set before Him [Jesus knew His work would provide salvation for many] endured the cross [completed His mission], scorning [disregarding] its shame [disgrace; see Gal. 3:13], and sat down [perfect tense indicates He is still there; see Heb. 1:3; Eph. 1:20] at the right hand of the throne of God [see Phil. 2:6-11].

Note: See Acts 7:56 regarding the reference to Jesus “standing” — perhaps to welcome Stephen, the first martyr, into heaven!

12:3 Consider [reckon; meditate] Him [Jesus is our greatest example] who endured such opposition from sinful men [throughout His ministry], so [for this reason] that you will not grow weary [discouraged] and lose heart [give up; grow slack; give out].

Hebrews 11:7

11:7 By faith Noah, when warned about things [the flood] not yet seen, in holy fear built [indicates Noah believed what the Lord told him] an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.

Hebrews 11:23-26

11:23 By faith Moses’ [Moses mentioned eleven times in Hebrews] parents hid [willing to take a risk in order to protect their son] him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary [Gr. “asteios” which means beautiful; cf. Acts 7:20] child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.

11:24 By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter [and by so doing lost the power and prestige associated with Egypt’s royal court].

11:25 He chose [Moses made hard and right decisions] to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a short time [the pleasures of sin do not last as long as the consequences of sin].

Note: When have you faced a choice between comfort and courageous action? Which option did you choose?

11:26 He regarded [indicates Moses weighed things carefully] disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.

Note: What did you give up to become a Christian? What have you gained by being a Christian?

Hebrews 10:19-25

10:19 Therefore [links exhortation that follows with preceding verses], brothers [an affectionate term], since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place [not a physical sanctuary but rather the presence of God] by the blood of Jesus [on the basis of Jesus’ saving work on the cross],

10:20 by a new [cf. 2 Cor. 5:17] and living way opened for us through the curtain [imagery of curtain that hung in the tabernacle before the Most Holy Place], that is, his body,

10:21 and since we have a great [high] priest over the house of God,

10:22 [note three exhortations…] [1] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart [cf. Matt. 5:8] in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse [Jesus’ blood cleanses] us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water [a reference to baptism, the outward sign of an inward cleansing].

10:23 [2] Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.

10:24 And [3] let us consider [reflect on, give careful / thoughtful attention to] how we may spur [provoke, sharpen, incite] one another [there are more than thirty one another passages in the NT] on toward love [for God and others; see Matt. 22:37-40] and good deeds [the behavior that results from salvation; see Eph. 2:10].

10:25 [must do 10:25 in order to accomplish 10:24] Let us not give up [abandon or desert] meeting [“the regular gathering together of Christian believers for worship and exhortation in a particular place” (Reinecker/Rogers)] together [consistently; see 1 Cor. 16:2a], as some are in the habit [custom] of doing [to their peril because “Satan is a pirate looking for a vessel without a fleet.”], but let us encourage [entreat, support; emphasis is on what you can contribute; see 1 Thess. 5:14] one another — and all the more as [strong motivation] you see [live with the urgent expectation of] the Day [of the Lord’s imminent return; see Matt. 24:42] approaching.

Note: The words “meeting together” translate the Greek word “episynagogue.” The prefix “epi” means “in addition to.” Some scholars believe the readers of Hebrews attended the synagogue and “in addition” attended meetings of believers. To neglect the “additional” meetings might indicate that they were slipping back into Judaism.

Hebrews 9:11-15

9:11 When Christ [inaugurated/established new covenant] came [appeared] as high priest of the good things [comprehensive way of summing up the blessings Christ has won for His people] that are already here, he went through the greater and more perfect tabernacle that is not man-made [heavenly sanctuary of God’s presence (cf. Heb. 8:1-2; 9:24)], that is to say, not a part of this creation.

9:12 He did not enter by means of the blood of goats and calves; but he entered the Most Holy Place once for all [final; in contrast to repetition of priest’s work under old covenant] by his own blood [Christ offered His own blood], having obtained [secured] eternal redemption [release by payment of a price].

9:13 The blood of goats and bulls [offerings presented on Day of Atonement (cf. Lev. 16)] and the ashes of a heifer [offering to remove uncleanness associated with contact with a corpse (Num. 19:1-10)] sprinkled on those who are ceremonially unclean sanctify them [thus qualifying the person for again worshiping God] so that they are outwardly clean [cleansing under old covenant primarily outward/ceremonial].

9:14 How much more [stresses incomparable greatness of Christ and His work for us], then, will the blood of Christ [His death regarded as sacrifice for sin], who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished [without imperfection; cf. 1 Pet. 1:18-19] to God, cleanse our consciences [inner, spiritual cleansing] from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve [to do religious service, to minister] the living God!

9:15 For this reason [“refers to Christ’s effectiveness in offering sacrifice and cleansing from sin so that the believer might worship the living God” (Rienecker/Rogers)] Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal [not temporary] inheritance — now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.

Hebrews 9:22-26

9:22 In fact, the law requires that nearly [some Jewish purificatory rites involved water or fire as well as the shedding of blood] everything [people and things] be cleansed with blood [symbolized cleansing and forgiveness; blood is a symbol of life because it keeps alive], and [cf. Lev. 17:11] without the shedding of blood [Jesus shed his blood (his life)] there is no forgiveness.

9:23 It was necessary, then, for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things [the heavenly counterparts of the earthly sanctuary] themselves with better sacrifices [the single sacrifice of Christ stands as the fulfillment of all the different sacrifices of the old covenant] than these.

9:24 For Christ did not enter a man-made [earthly] sanctuary that was only a copy of the true one; he [Christ (not priests or saints) is our representative and Advocate] entered heaven itself [before God Himself], now to appear [always] for us [Christ is our intercessor and our only mediator] in God’s presence [literally “face”].

9:25 Nor did he enter heaven [“once for all” (Heb. 9:12)] to offer himself again and again, the way the high priest enters the Most Holy Place every year [indicating a job that never ended] with blood that is not his own [the blood of a sacrificial animal offered to bring cleansing to the nation].

9:26 Then [if Christ’s sacrifice had been like the OT sacrifices] Christ would have had to suffer many times since the creation of the world. But now he [Christ initiated a new covenant and was the perfect sacrifice] has appeared once for all [in contrast with “many times” (Levitical sacrifices that must be repeated] at the end of the ages [cf. “in these last days” (Heb. 1:2); refers to Jesus coming to earth in fulfillment of OT prophecies] to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself.

Hebrews 8:6-7

8:6 But the ministry Jesus has received is as superior [more excellent] to theirs [priests under the old covenant] as the covenant of which he is mediator [legal term for one who arbitrates between two parties; Jesus is arbitrator between sinful humanity and holy God, cf. 1 Tim. 2:5] is superior to the old one [covenant at Sinai], and it is founded on better promises [Heb. 8:10-12 cf. Jer. 31:31-34].

8:7 For if there had been nothing wrong [faultless] with that first covenant, no place [room for, occasion for] would have been sought for another [new covenant; establishment of new covenant confirmed inadequacy of old one].

Hebrews 8: 13

8:13 By calling this covenant “new [Gr. kainos: something totally new in time],” he has made the first one obsolete [out-of-date; no longer need for temple, sacrifices, priesthood; cf. Heb. 7:18-19]; and what is obsolete and aging [words emphasize old covenant ineffective] will soon disappear [suggestive of utter destruction and abolition].