INTRODUCTION TO 1 CORINTHIANS

QUESTIONS FOR STUDY ONE
OUTLINE

Before analyzing the test of any book of the Bible, it is well to learn the historical background.

Also, it is best to make a "skyscraper" view of its general contents.

1. BACKGROUND
   1. Author. Apostle Paul according to all scholars for it is heavily quoted by many earlier church followers.
   2. Date Written. in 55 or 56 A.D.
   3. Period Covered. Beginning of the spread of the gospel, during Paul's third missionary journey.
   4. Geographical Centers. Paul was in Ephesus when he wrote this second letter to the congregation in Corinth.
   5. Main Theme. First Corinthians is a practical letter. Paul dealt with problems concerning the church as a whole and also with personal problems. The letter is relevant for the needs of today. Individuals and churches continue to face many of the same problems encountered at Corinth.
   6. Audience. A maturing congregation with problems.
2. SURVEY
   1. Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to give instruction and admonition that would lead to the solving of the many problems in the congregation. Some of these problems may have arisen out of a "super spiritualist" group that had been influenced by incipient gnostic teachings. All of the problems in chapters 1-14 were grounded in egocentric or self-centered attitudes in contrast to self-denying, Christ-centered attitudes. Chapter 15 concerning the resurrection may reflect sincere misconceptions on the part of the Corinthians. (Holman Bible Dictionary)