Lesson Title

This letter was written to the Church at Corinth to correct the sins in that Church. Every chapter rebukes them for some sin that they are guilty of. This Church had been established in a wicked city. Now the wicked sins of that city had been brought into the Church. This is the same kind of problem we are facing today.
I. THE BELIEVERS SPIRITUAL STANDING IS IN CHRIST. v. 1-9

A. They Were Sanctified And Called. v. 1-3

1. Paul's personal testimony. v. 1
2. Paul's description of this local Church. v. 2a. The church in the New Testament is always local, and never universal.
3. Paul's evaluation of their position. v. 2b
a. They were sanctified in Christ.
b. They were called to be saints.
c. This is true of all saved people.
4. Paul's desire for them. v. 3
B. They Were Bless By God's Grace. v. 4-6
1. They were given this grace by Jesus Christ. v. 4
2. They were enriched by Him. v. 5-6. Enriched means that they were made rich in a spiritual sense.

C. They Were Waiting For The Coming Of The Lord. v. 7-9

1. They believed in the imminent coming of the Lord. v. 7
2. Paul wanted them to be blameless at the second coming. v. 8. 1 John 2:28-3:3, 28 And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. 29 If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him. 1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
3. They were called to fellowship, by the faithful God. v. 9
NOTE: Christ is mentioned nine times in these nine verses. Christ must be first in everything. Christ is linked with apostleship,
sanctification, grace, peace, testimony, and fellowship.

A. He Pleads For Them To End Their Divisions. v. 10

1. His plea was made in the name of Christ. v. 10a
2. He pleads for unity in speech. v. 10b
3. He pleads for unity in mind. v. 10c
4. He pleads for unity in judgment. v. 10d

B. He Pleads For Them To Disband Their Fan Clubs. v. 11-12

1. It was well known that there were contentions (strife, wrangling) in the church. v. 11
2. They were divided over men. v. 12. This is the fan club mentality and it will destroy a church. There is no evidence that Paul, Apollos, Cephas, or Christ ever encouraged such conduct. (There is no evidence that Cephas was ever in Corinth, but his ministry must have been well known). How sad when people divide up over personalities in the Church. 1 Cor. 3:3-4
3. Christ is not divided, and His people should not be. He was the one that was crucified. v. 13a
4. Notice that they were "brethren" and that they were to be "perfectly joined." v. 10
C. He Pleads For Them To View Baptism Correctly. v. 13b-16
1. They had all been baptized in the name of Christ and not in the name of some man. v. 13b
2. Paul had baptized very few in this Church. v. 14-16. Evidently some were boasting because of the man that baptized them. This was wrong.
3. Paul's position on baptism. He did not minimize baptism, but he taught that converts should be baptized. He let Timothy, Silas, and other preachers who were traveling with him do the baptizing. Acts 18:8, And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.

A. Paul's Calling Was To Preach The Gospel. v. 17-18

1. He was not sent to baptize, but to preach the gospel. v. 17a This destroys the doctrine of those that make baptism a part of the gospel.
2. Wisdom of words detracts from the influence of the Cross of Christ. v. 17b
3. To the unbelieving the preaching of the cross is foolishness. v. 18a
4. To the believing it is the power of God. v. 18b

B. The Wisdom Of This World Is Headed For Destruction. v. 19-21

1. The god of human wisdom and learning is headed for judgment. v. 19; Isa. 29:14, Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.
2. God has made foolish the wisdom of this world. v. 20
3. Wisdom has never saved anyone. It is the preaching of the gospel that saves. v. 21. The Corinthian believers with their Grecian background were prone to look to man made wisdom, and not the wisdom that cometh down from above. James 3:15-17, 15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. 16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.

C. Paul Preached Christ Crucified. v. 22-25

1. The Jews required a sign. v. 22a. Many today are looking for miracles, signs and wonders. John 2:18, Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things?
2. The Greeks sought after Wisdom. v. 22b. Today many seek after science, learning, and man made knowledge, apart from the wisdom of God. Acts 17:18-21, 18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection. 19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is? 20 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean. 21 (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)
3. The message of Christ crucified was rejected by the Jews and the Greeks. v. 23
4. The called, the saved, these see Christ as the power and wisdom of God. v. 24
5. God is far above these foolish men. v. 25

A. God Hath Not Chosen Many Wise Men. v. 26-29

1. Only a few wise, mighty, and noble are called by God. v. 26. Why is this? Because if they were called, both they and their followers would give them the glory and not God. 1 Cor. 2:13; 3:18
2. God hath chosen the foolish and the weak, that the unbelievers might be confounded. v. 27-28. Psa. 8:2, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. Matt. 4:18, And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
3. The purpose of this is stated. v. 29. 2 Cor. 4:7; 2 Cor. 10:4

B. Our Lack Is Made Up For By What We Have In Christ. v. 30-31

1. We lack so much from the natural standpoint, but we have so much because of Him.
2. We lack wisdom, but Christ is made unto us wisdom. v. 30. Col. 2:3, In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
3. We lack righteousness, but Christ is made unto us righteousness. v. 30. 2 Cor. 5:21, For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
4. We lack sanctification, but Christ is made unto us sanctification. v. 30. John 17:19, And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
5. We lack redemption, so Christ was made unto us redemption. v. 30. Rom. 3:24, Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:
6. The purpose of this clearly stated. v. 31. Eph. 2:9, Not of works, lest any man should boast. Jer. 9:23-24

The message of God's Word is the most important message in the world. The Bible is that message. Yet, the Bible is a mystery to most people. By what means can we know the Word of God? We shall find out in this chapter.
In the city of Corinth, men were mixing philosophy and human wisdom with God's message. This created great confusion, and the same thing is happening today in our churches. Teachers are adding their own interpretation to the Word of God. This chapter was written, to call the Christians back to the inspired Word of God.
I. PROCLAMATION AND DEMONSTRATION. v. 1-5

A. The Proclamation. v. 1-2

1. In Athens Paul was exposed to the poets, philosophers and orators, but he did not allow this to influence his preaching in Corinth.
2. He simply came to Corinth to declare the message of God. Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 20:21) For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: (1 Corinthians 1:22)
3. Paul was consecrated to the Master and concentrating on the message. v. 2. O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? (Galatians 3:1)
4. Why the cross is the high point of the Christian message. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world. (Galatians 6:14)

a. It reveals what man is. It was because of man's sin, that the cross had to be.
b. It reveals what God is. Only love would cause God to send His son to the cross.
c. It reveals what sin is. Sin put him on the cross. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. (2 Corinthians 5:21) For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. (Romans 6:23)
d. It reveals what salvation is.

B. The Demonstration. v. 3-5

1. It is an awesome thing to stand and proclaim God's Word. v. 3
2. The continued proclamation of it will bring demonstration. v. 4. The Gospel is still the power of God. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. (Romans 1:16) And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. (Colossians 2:4) 16 For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. 17 For he received from God the Father honour and glory, when there came such a voice to him from the excellent glory, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. 18 And this voice which came from heaven we heard, when we were with him in the holy mount. (2 Peter 1:16-18)
3. Our faith should have a firm foundation. v. 5

A. The Wisdom From Above. v. 6

1. Paul's wisdom came for God above. He received God's inspired Word. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (2 Timothy 3:16)
2. When we say that the Bible was inspired of God, we mean that God furnished the words, so there could be no error.
3. There is no new inspired word of God, but we do have the revelation of God. All the Bible is a revelation from God.
4. "Perfect" means "mature or full grown," and not sinless perfection.

B. The Untaught People. v. 7-8

1. What is revealed to some is hid from others. v. 7. On every side we notice the ignorance of wise men about divine things. At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. (Matthew 11:25) And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: (Ephesians 3:9) Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, (2 Timothy 1:9)
2. The princes and rulers ignorantly crucified Jesus. v. 8

C. The Spirit Reveals. v. 9-10

1. God is not talking about things prepared in heaven, but rather the things He has prepared in this life for the saved. v. 9. For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him. (Isaiah 64:4)
2. God reveals these things to us by the Spirit. v. 10. "Hath prepared" and "hath revealed" are both in the past tense. It is through the Spirit that God reveals His purpose and will. This is not apart from the Bible, but through the Bible that this is done. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. (John 16:13)

A. Understanding The Meaning Of Words.

1. Inspiration and Revelation. Inspiration is how the Bible came while revelation is what the Bible is. Inspiration is the method God used, while revelation is the result.
2. Revelation and Interpretation. Revelation is the 66 books of the Bible, while interpretation is the method by which this message may be translated into human terms. The Bible warns against "private interpretation," but interpretation is simply explaining of the Word so that it can be understood. True interpretation does not change the Word of God, but it explains the Word.
3. Interpretation and Illumination. Illumination comes through the power of the Holy Spirit. This enables us to understand the truths of God. v. 11

B. The Spirit Of Man And The Spirit Of God. v. 11-12

1. By the human spirit we understand the things of the human mind. v. 11
2. By the Holy Spirit we understand the things of the divine mind, that is, the things of God. v. 12. We receive the Holy Spirit when we are saved, but we must yield to the Spirit and obey, if we are to receive the things which the Spirit reveals. Intelligence, education, and aptitude can not possible make up for the absence of the Spirit. The Spirit is the only one that can make us to know "the things that are freely given to us of God." They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (1 John 4:5) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. (Romans 8:5) In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. (2 Corinthians 4:4)

C. The Teaching Of Man And The Teaching Of The Spirit. v. 13

1. This verse teaches that the "words" of the Bible are inspired. Not just the thoughts, but the very words of the Bible are inspired.
2. "The Holy Ghost teacheth," means that Holy Spirit illumines our minds so that we can properly understand the Bible.
3. This does not teach us that it is not necessary for us to study. Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)

D. The Natural Man And The Spiritual Man. v. 14-16

1. The natural man is unsaved, and therefore does not have the Spirit of God. v. 14. He cannot receive the things of the Spirit, nor can he know them. Why? Because they are spiritually discerned. This is where the devil side tracks so many lost people. They are determined that they are not going to be saved until they have studied the Bible and understand it. The more they study it, the more confused they are. They may even be deluded into thinking that they understand it, when all the time they are deluded by their own ignorance and the wiles of the devil. Such people sometimes become founders of some denominational branch of religion. In fact this is why we have so many denominations and cults with their conflicting claims and doctrines. You may be sure that God is not the author of confusion. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. (James 3:15) These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. (Jude 1:19) For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. (Romans 8:5)
2. The spiritual man has been "born of the Spirit," and is indwelt by the Spirit. v. 15. He has the ability to judge all things in the spiritual realm, because he can understand the Word of God. He "is judged of not man." The world cannot understand the child of God anymore that it can understand the Word of God. Both have come into being from the same source. (See 1 Corinthians 3:1; John 7:17; Hebrews 5:14)
3. The spiritual man has the "mind of Christ." v. 16. We are not mental miniatures of the Master. However, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, our mental faculties are quickened and enlightened to the point where we can share His thoughts and understand His will and comprehend the revelation of His truth as it is found in the Scriptures. (See Isa. 40:13-14; Rom. 11:34).

Notice that the Scriptures describe three different kinds of men.
1. The natural man 1 Cor. 2:14. The natural man is the unsaved man. He does not have spiritual life, because he has never experienced the new birth. He is unsaved and unspiritual, therefore he cannot understand the things of the Spirit of God in the Bible.
2. The spiritual man 1 Cor. 2:10-13,15,16. The spiritual man has physical life he received at the time of his first birth. He also has spiritual life that he received at his second birth See John 3. The spiritual man begins as a spiritual infant, but grows and matures by eating spiritual food and taking spiritual exercise.
3. The carnal man I Cor. 3:1. The carnal man is a spiritual man with certain limitations. The carnal man has not kept growing from the time of his second birth, but has starved himself spiritually by not eating the right spiritual food and taking the right spiritual exercise. The word carnal in this verse means, "having the nature of flesh, governed by mere human nature not by the Spirit of God."
I. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF CARNALITY. v. 1-6

A. A Soft Milk Diet. v. 1-2

1. The carnal Christian is a babe, and cannot receive anything but baby talk. v. 1. Eph. 4:14, That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; I Cor. 14:20
2. He is offended by strong doctrine. v. 2. Heb. 5:12, For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. See Heb. 5:9-14. 1 Peter 2:2, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: Babes can cry and raise a fuss, but cannot communicate,.

B. Preoccupied With Envying, Strife And Divisions. v. 3

1. He is dominated by the old fleshly nature.
2. He is the source of strife and divisions in the Church. 1 Cor. 6:1; 2 Cor. 12:20, For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: Gal. 5:15, But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another. James 3:16, For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

C. The Carnal Man Robs God Of The Glory. v. 4

1. He is the source of the fan clubs in the Church.
2. He is the author of the personality cults. 1 Cor. 4:6
D. The Carnal Man Does Not Know Who Produces The Fruit. v. 5-6
1. Man's part is the planting and the watering.
2. God's part is giving the increase. 2 Cor. 4:5-7; Rom. 12:3

A. The Folly Of Defiling The Temple. v. 16-17

1. Every true Church is a temple of God, and in a sense, so is every Christian. v. 16. 1 Cor. 6:19; Eph. 2:21-22, 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit. 1 Pet. 2:5, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 1 John 4:15
2. It is a terribly foolish thing to defile the church. v. 17. 1 Cor. 5:1-5; 1 Cor. 11:30; 1 Cor. 11:17-31

B. The Folly Of Human Wisdom. v. 18-20

1. Self deception is the worst form of deception. v. 18. Gal. 6:3, For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. 1 Cor. 4:10; Prov. 3:7, Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. Prov. 26:12, Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him. Isa. 5:21, Woe unto them that are wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!
2. The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. v. 19. 1 Cor. 1:19-20. Isa. 29:14, Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the under standing of their prudent men shall be hid. Rom. 1:21-22, 21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
3. God knows the thoughts of the wise of this world, and they are vain. v. 20. Col. 2:18, Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

C. The Folly Of Glorying In Men. v. 21-23

1. Do not glory in the wisdom or in the praises of man. v. 21. 2 Cor. 4:5, For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
2. Glory in what we have as believers.

a. We have unlimited protection. Ye are Christ's. v. 22-23
b. We have marvelous possessions. All things are yours. v. 21
c. We have a precious position. Ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's. v. 23. Gal. 3:29, And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. 1 Cor. 8:6, But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

In the minds of many people, there is much confusion over the relationship between the pastor and the church members. A correct understanding of this chapter, would help to resolve some of these destructive conflicts which are so harmful to the cause of Christ.

I. THE LEADERS AND THEIR CALLING. v. 1-5

A. The Leaders and God. v. 1-2

1. The God appointed leaders are "ministers of Christ." v. 1. The word "minister" in the Greek, means and under-rower, as the slaves rowed in Roman galley ships. The minister belongs to Christ and not to man, therefore he is an under-rower under Christ, and not man. The minister must be called of God, not by man, or by selfish ambition.

a. He must have a life above reproach. Titus 1:7, For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre.
b. Pray for him to have boldness. Eph. 6:19, And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel.

2. They are "stewards of the mysteries of God." v. 1. A steward was a manager intrusted with the management of his master's affairs. In the case of the Christian steward, he is intrusted with time, talent, opportunity, the message, and the people to lead. This is a tremendous responsibility. 1 Cor. 9:16, For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
3. Stewards must be faithful. v. 2. This is a must if one is to please God. There is a sense in which every Christian is a steward, but it is especially true of the pastor. For illustration and background material, read Luke 12:42-49; 16:1-13. 1 Cor. 4:2, Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

B. The Leaders and Their Judgment. v. 3-5

1. There is the unscriptural judgment by men. v. 3a. It is strange that so many people think they are qualified to sit in judgment on the God called pastor.
2. There is the leader's self-judgment. v. 3b-4a; 1 Cor. 2:15
3. The Lord judges us today through His Word. v. 4b. His is the most important judgment. Heb. 4:12, For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
4. Man judges God's servants at the wrong time. v. 5a. Wait until the right time, and God will be the judge.
5. God is the one that has the right to judge. v. 5b. Man is not capable of exercising this judgment. 1 Sam. 16:7, But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.

A. Paul the Father of this Church Family. v. 14-15

1. He warned them as sons. v. 14
2. He had begotten them through the gospel. v. 15. Note that he did not claim credit for their salvation. He had begotten them through the gospel. The gospel was the means, Paul was only the messenger. 2 Cor. 7:3, I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.

B. Paul Was the Example for the Church Family. v. 16-17

1. He pleads with them to follow him. v. 16. Please note that "be ye" is in the imperative mood in the Greek. This means that it is a command to be obeyed. "Followers" means to mimic or imitate. People in a Bible preaching New Testament Church should follow their pastor. Phil. 3:17, Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
2. He sent Timothy to reestablish what he had taught them. v. 17. A good preacher is blessed to have a faithful helper like Timothy. 1 Thess. 3:2, And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith.

C. Paul Disciplined the Church Family. v. 18-21
Every family should practice discipline. The church family is no exception. Every church needs a godly pastor who will discipline the church family with the Word of God.

1. Some were puffed up at the preacher. v. 18. They thought that Paul would not be coming back to Corinth. Even if he did, they had made up their minds that they would not fear him. 2 Cor. 10:8-11, 8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed: 9 That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters. 10 For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. 11 Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.
2. He promised to come and take care of the problem. v, 19-21. 2 Cor. 13:2-4. Rom. 14:17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. 2 Co 10:4-5 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Cor. 12:20-21, For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and that I shall be found unto you such as ye would not: lest there be debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings, swellings, tumults: And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.

--Lesson by E. L. Bynum

The local church can exist in a world of sin, but it cannot prosper when a world of sin is brought into the church. The Church at Corinth was located in the most sinful city in the Roman Empire, and they had allowed that sin to come into the Church. They were boasting in men, when they should have been concerned about the gross immorality that had come into the Church.

I. SIN IN THE CHURCH OF GOD. v. 1-2
Please notice that this letter was written Unto the church of God which is at Corinth ... It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you.... 1 Cor. 1:2a, 5:1. Every Scriptural church is the church of God at that location.

A. Sin in a Person. v. 1

1. This terrible sin was commonly reported among the people.
2. Reasons why Christians can commit sins.

(1) The believer still has the fleshly nature. If there was no devil, the flesh would run toward sin. Read Romans 7. The Bible tells, put no confidence in the flesh.
(2) The believer is still in the world with all its temptations.
(3) The devil is still running loose. He is not chained, but is the prince of the power of the air. He has "wiles," "snares," and "devices" with which to entrap the child of God.

3. This man was guilty of a forbidden sin. He wanted his stepmother in a sinful way. Since she is not condemned in this passage, she was most likely not a Christian at all.
4. This is forbidden in the Bible. (Lev. 20:11) And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them. (Deut. 22:30) A man shall not take his father's wife, nor discover his father's skirt. (Deut. 27:20) Cursed be he that lieth with his father's wife; because he uncovereth his father's skirt.
5. Both Absalom and Reuben lost God's blessing because of this sin. See Gen. 35:22; 1 Chron. 5:1; and 2 Sam. 16:22.
6. The Bible warns against fornication. (1 Cor. 6:18) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body. (Eph. 5:3) But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; (Col. 3:5) Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
7. If you want to avoid sin, follow 1 Cor. 10:12-13. Walk with God, avoid the very appearance of evil, seek His face in prayer, read and obey His Word, and you will find the key to victory over sin.

B. Sin in a Church. v. 2

1. They should have mourned over this situation. "Mourned" is the same word that describes grief at a funeral. Toleration of this sin would mean death to the Church at Corinth.
2. God wants His churches to be doctrinally and morally pure.
3. Immoral behavior is a big problem in churches today. Most churches are not mourning are doing anything about it.
4. In Joshua 7, we see how the sin of Achan brought judgment on the entire nation. It works the same way in the church. One drop of contaminated water will contaminate a whole reservoir of pure water, but one drop of pure water will not purify a reservoir of contaminated water. One deadly cancer cell can multiply and destroy the whole body.

A. Sin must Be Judged. v. 3-6

1. Paul as a spiritual leader had already passed judgment. v. 3. He did not remain neutral, but boldly condemned this sin.
2. The Church was commanded to pass judgment. v. 4-5. Many people seem to think that a church cannot expel members. This verse refutes that idea. (1 Tim. 1:20) Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; whom I have delivered unto Satan, that they may learn not to blaspheme.
3. Church discipline has a three fold purpose.

(1) To remove the defilement of sin. v. 7a
(2) It will restrain others. (1 Tim. 5:20) Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.
(3) It is always hoped that it will bring about the repentance of the sinning member. It did in this case. (2 Cor. 2:6-7) 6 Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. 7 So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.

4. They are rebuked for not taking this matter seriously. v. 6. Leaven is a picture of sin. It only takes a little to permeate the whole body of people.

B. Sin must Be Purged. v. 7-8

1. Read Gal. 6:1-2, and Matt. 18:15-20. These verses reveal what should be done about sin in the Church.
2. Purge out, means to remove the offending member. v. 7
3. We cannot have fellowship with Christ, and have fellowship with sin at the same time.

A. Christians Are Not to Keep Company with Sinners. v. 9-10

1. People outside the Church who live this way are to be avoided. v. 9-10. (Eph. 5:11) And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.
2. We cannot avoid contact with such people in this world. v. 10a. We would have to go out of this world to do that, but we can avoid keeping company with them or having fellowship with them.

B. We Are Not to Keep Company with a Brother Who Lives this Way. v. 11

1. He may be called a brother, but if he lives this way, he is not to be treated as a brother.
2. We are not to eat with such a person. This would keep us from socializing with them. This would keep us from eating the Lord's Supper with them.

C. Those Whom the Church Should Judge. v. 12-13

1. The Church is to judge those within its membership. The wicked are to be put out of the membership.
2. God will judge those outside the Church membership.

NOTE: When a person has been disciplined by the Church, then all of the members should avoid them. They should not sympathize with them, or listen to their complaints. (2 Thess. 3:14-15) 14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. "Note that man" means to mark him. This is in the imperative mood, which means that it is a command to be obeyed. "Have no company with him" means that he is to be avoided. This too is in the imperative mood.
When a person has caused trouble in a Church, misbehaved, or disregarded the leadership of the pastor, he is to be avoided. Some leave the Church on their own, then they begin a courtship of other members that they think they can influence. They will call on the telephone, or visit with members, while they drop little hints that they have been wronged. Such people are only trying to destroy the Church to get even. Why should any obedient Christian keep company with them.

Lesson by E. L. Bynum

The Church at Corinth was plagued with many problems. In this chapter Paul deals with them about their legal problems, and about their moral problems.
I. CHRISTIANS AND THEIR LEGAL PROBLEMS. v. 1-8
Christians in the Church were taking their legal problems between themselves, before the ungodly heathen courts of that land. This is also a problem among Christians of modern times. More and more we hear of such things taking place. We live among people who seek to settle their problems through litigation. The United States has more lawyers and more lawsuits than any other country in the world. In a recent year there were 200,000 civil suits filed in the federal courts, and 12 million suits were filed in the state courts. There are nearly one million lawyers in the nation, and the number is rapidly increasing.
It is wrong for Christians to take their legal problems with other Christians to the courts, for the following reasons.

A. It Is Contrary To The Future Destiny Of Believers. v. 1-3

1. This invites the ridicule of the unsaved. v. 1. (Matt. 18:15-17) 15 Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. 16 But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. (1 Cor. 14:33) For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
2. The saints shall judge the world and angels. v. 2-3 (Matt. 19:28) And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

B. It Is Contrary To Common Sense. v. 4-6

1. The least esteemed in the Church are better qualified to judge in these matters, than the unbelievers in the courts. v. 4
2. Wisdom was available to them. v. 5. (James 1:5) If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
3. It was unbelievable that they would give up their testimony for this. v. 6. (Psa. 133:1) Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (1 John 2:9) He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. (1 John 3:11) For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.

C. It Is Contrary To The Spirit Of Christianity. v. 7-8

1. They were utterly wrong in going to law. v. 7a
2. They should have been willing to yield their rights. v. 7b (Rom. 12:17-19) 17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. 18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. 19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. (1 Pet. 3:9) Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
3. Christians need the spirit of Abraham, in his dealings with Lot, and not the spirit of the Corinthian Christians. v. 8. See Gen. 13:1-11.
4. It is a sad thing to see Christians live in such a way that unsaved people have no respect for them.

(1) By refusing the temptation of sin.
(2) By daily prayer and communion with God.
(3) By daily feeding on His Word.
(4) By daily witnessing to others.

--Lesson by E. L. Bynum

It is evident from the first verse that the Corinthians had inquired of Paul about marriage and the relationship of man and woman. He answers their question, but does not discuss the complete doctrine of marriage. This was an important question in the immoral city of Corinth.
In vs. 6,10,12, and 25, Paul is not disclaiming inspiration of that which he wrote. He is here commenting on things that Jesus never taught upon. Where Jesus had taught on that issue, Paul quoted the Lord.
I. SINGLE AND MARRIED LIFE. v. 1-9

A. Celibacy Is Honorable. v. 1
There is nothing wrong in remaining single. It is good, if a person can abstain from fornication while remaining single. Some in the Church at Corinth thought that Christians should not get married, others were apparently teaching that every Christian must get married. Paul is not forbidding marriage.
B. Marriage Is Desirable. v. 2

1. Marriage is a bulwark against committing fornication. See also 1 Cor. 6:18.
2. It is clear that Paul is not forbidding marriage. In another passage, he accuses false prophets of doing that very thing. (1 Tim. 4:3) Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received....

C. Marriage Brings Mutual Obligations. v. 3-5

1. Mutual respect & kindness a necessity in marriage. v. 3
2. Their bodies belong to each other, and abstinence can only be practiced through mutual consent. v. 4
3. Marriage partners are not to withhold respect and affection from each other. v. 5a. To do so is to defraud the other party.
4. A Temporary and mutual agreement is only to be done for religious and spiritual reasons. v. 5b
5. If this is not strictly observed, it will open the door for Satan's temptations. v. 5c. NOTE: If Christian married couples would sit down together and study vs. 2-5, and accept it, it would solve many of their marriage problems.

D. The Expediency Of Marriage. v. 6-9

1. Paul is not here repeating a commandment, but what he is saying is of the Lord. v. 6
2. Paul was single and happy, but he knew that not everyone had this gift. v. 7
3. He tells the unmarried and widows that it would be good to remain single. v. 8. This is to be viewed in the light of vs. 7,9. He does not discuss divorced people in this passage.
4. It would be better to marry, than to burn in lust. v. 9. (1 Tim. 5:14) I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

A. The Christian's Relationship. v. 10-11

1. The saved not to depart from an unsaved companion. v. 10. To do so, would not be the solution to the marriage problems.
2. If conditions are so intolerable that separation or divorce is the last resort, the Christian is to remain single. v. 11
3. Remember that a saved person is not to marry a lost person. (2 Cor. 6:14) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers:....
B. The Christian's Responsibility. v. 12-16
1. A Christian should not separate from an unsaved husband or wife. v. 12-13.
2. The unbeliever in a marriage is influenced in a spiritual way by the believer. v. 14. (1 Pet. 3:1-4) 1 Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
3. The reference to children in v. 14 is this. Salvation does not annul the marriage, if so, this would make the children illegitimate.
4. If the unbeliever departs, the Christian is not in bondage in such a case. v. 15. Paul does not give permission to the believer to remarry. (v. 11) Let her remain unmarried....
5. The saved partner may be used to reach their mate. v. 16

A. The Principle Stated And Applied. v. 17-19

1. A new Christian should continue his vocation and calling, unless it is contrary to the Word of God. v. 17
2. A Christian Jew cannot change the fact that he is a Jew. v. 18-19. Neither should a Christian Gentile seek to become a Jew.

B. The Principle Applied To The Christian Slave. v. 20-24

1. A man who is a slave, should not think that when he is saved, he is now set free from slavery. v. 20
2. If a slave is saved, he is not to be distressed because of his slavery. v. 21a
3. If he has the opportunity to become free, then he is to accept that opportunity. v. 21b
4. Remember what Paul said. (Gal. 3:28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (1 Tim. 6:1-2) 1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. 2 And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
5. Onesimus the run a way slave was converted, and then Paul sent him back to his master. Philemon 10-18
6. A saved slave is free in the Lord. v. 22
7. The Lord has bought us with a price, we are not to volunteer to be a slave to man or to the world. v. 23
8. While Paul did not condone slavery, he never started a crusade to abolish it. v. 24. God's people are called to a higher life.

A. From The Parental Viewpoint. v. 25-28

1. In "the present distress" Paul thought it best for the unmarried to remain single. v. 25-26. The Church at Corinth was going through great distress, and it did not seem to be a good time to get married. This is not a rule for every situation every time.
2. Both married and single were advised to remain in their present state under these conditions. v. 27
3. It would be no sin for these single people to marry, but they would likely have trouble in the flesh. v. 28

B. From The Worldly Viewpoint. v. 29-35

1. Time was short, the cause of Christ must come first. v. 29-31
2. An unmarried person should have more time and desire to serve God, than if that person was married. v. 32. This is the ideal, but many singles do not live that way.
3. The married person may neglect pleasing the Lord, in order to please their mate. v. 33-34. This does not have to be, if they give themselves to serve God together.
4. Paul did not mean for this teaching to be a snare, but an aid in serving the Lord. v. 35

C. From The Circumstantial Viewpoint. v. 36-38

1. Fathers are warned not to prevent their daughter, who may be desirous of getting married, from doing so. v. 36. Her youth may be passing. Certainly the Bible teaching on marriage should be followed. This means that she will not be given in marriage to an unsaved man. We must understand that parents arranged marriage in those days.
2. If there is no compelling reason to get married, then no marriage should take place. v. 37
3. The important thing is to do the will of God. v. 38

A. Marriage Is A Lifetime Arrangement. v. 39a
Marriages are considered to be temporary arrangements in modern thinking. If it doesn't work out, we can get a divorce, is exactly what many today think. Wrong. Marriage is for a life time.
B. Death Does Allow For Remarriage. v. 39b-40

1. If the marriage partner dies, remarriage is allowed. v. 39b. See Rom. 7:2-3.
2. This marriage is to be "only in the Lord." v. 39c. This means that it must be according to the Bible, and in the will of God. This should be true of all marriages. There is no place for trial marriages.
3. Many people would be happier if they remained single. v. 40. Many people are lonely, but loneliness is to be preferred over a bad marriage.

The Corinthians had raised the issue of eating things that had been offered in sacrifice to idols. The meat in question, was brought to the heathen temples and offered to their idols, then it was taken to the market place and sold. If a Christian bought some of this meat to eat, was it a sin? If a Christian was invited to the home of another, should he eat the meat if he knows it had previously been offered to an idol? Should he inquire of the host, as to whether the meat had been offered to an idol? This lesson might not seem to be relevant for our day, but it really is. There are many doubtful things today, that can be decided on the basis of this chapter.

There are two other chapters that deal with this important issue. We would do well to study 1 Cor. 10:23-33 and Rom. 14.

I. CONTRASTING KNOWLEDGE AND LOVE. v. 1-3

A. The Two Motives Of Life. v. 1
It was a solemn thing to be a Christian in those days. Idolatrous paganism was touching nearly every home in some way. Meat which had been offered to idols was sold in the public market, and then served at social functions. If Christians were present in these meetings, they had to decide as to whether they would eat meat that had been offered to idols. Paul sets before them two motives that could serve as guides in making a decision in these matters.

1. All enlightened Christians have "knowledge." This knowledge was useful, but it could not completely settle the problem.
2. All should have "charity" (love). Knowledge and love must be in balance, in order to solve this question and many others. Please note that "Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth." Knowledge blows up but love builds up. Knowledge inflates with conceit but love moves with concern. Knowledge is selfish but love is selfless.
3. This is not to say that knowledge is useless, but it must be in balance with love.

B. Testing The Two Motives. v. 2-3

1. The imperfection of knowledge. v. 2.
2. The perfection of love. v. 3.
3. There are two things that every person needs to know.

a. He needs to know the will of God. It is necessary to know the will of God, before we can do the will of God.
b. He needs to know the word of God. It is impossible to know the will of God without knowing the word of God. Love for God will cause us to want to know both. Love will cause us to want to know the will of God and to do the will of God.

A. The Knowledge Of The Mature Christian. v. 4-6

1. The mature Christian understands that there is only one true God. All idols are the inventions of men. Idols have not life and can give no life.
2. Therefore the mature Christian could eat this meat without any harm being done to his own life.

B. The Knowledge Of The Immature Christian. v. 7-8

1. The immature were unable to make this distinction. v. 7
2. Food does not affect our relationship to God. v. 8

A. Beware Of Becoming A Stumblingblock. v. 9-11

1. If we use our liberty in the wrong way, it could cause another person to stumble. (Gal. 5:13) For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. (Rom. 14:1-3) 1 Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. 2 For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. 3 Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him.
2. We should be careful what we do and where we go. v. 10. Our testimony of conduct may help or hinder someone. Israel was seduced by going to the wrong place. (Num. 25:2) And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods.
3. In other places the Bible enforces the idea that idol temples and food offered to idols should be avoided. (Acts 15:28-29) 28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things; 29 That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well. (Acts 21:25) As touching the Gentiles which believe, we have written and concluded that they observe no such thing, save only that they keep themselves from things offered to idols, and from blood, and from strangled, and from fornication. (Rev. 2:14) But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.
4. The awful consequence of being a stumblingblock. v. 11. Paul did not teach that the weak brother would fall from grace and be lost, but he meant that his testimony and life would perish.

B. Beware Of Sinning Against Christ. v. 12-13

1. When we hinder a weak brother, we sin against Christ. v. 12. (Matt. 25:40) And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. This principle would hold true whether we are doing a good or bad thing. When Saul was persecuting the Christians, he was persecuting Jesus. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?
2. Paul's testimony presents a pattern of conduct worthy of following. v. 13. The word flesh in v. 13 and in Rom. 14:21, means the flesh of a sacrificial animal. While in v. 8, meat means any food. Remember that they also offered fruits and vegetables to idols.
3. A note on idolatry. "Idolatry originally meant the worship of idols, or the worship of false gods by means of idols, but came to mean among the Old Testament Hebrews any worship of false gods, whether by images or otherwise, and finally the worship of Jehovah through visible symbols (Hos. 8:5-6; 10:15); and ultimately in the New Testament idolatry came to mean, not only the giving to any creature or human creation the honor or devotion which belonged to God alone, but the giving to any human desire a precedence over God's will (1 Cor. 10:14; Gal. 5:20; Col 3:5; 1 Pet. 4:3)." --From "The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia"

A. The Problems Of Our Day.
In our present society we are not faced with the eating of meat that has been offered to idols. If any thing however, we face problems more complex. Paul's guide lines for deciding on the eating of meat offered to idols, will also work on most of our problems today.
If you are wondering if a certain habit or act is a sin, take out the word meat in 1 Cor. 8, and put in the name of your habit or act. Will your habit, amusement, or pleasure be a stumblingblock to someone else? Most people who ask if a certain thing is a sin, in their heart already know the answer. They are hoping that someone will give them an answer that will justify their action.
Let us try the test to smoking, since some people insist that it is alright. (1 Cor. 8:13) Wherefore, if (smoking) make my brother to offend, I will (smoke no more) while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. Try this same thing on other habits or acts.
B. How To Test Questionable Things.

1. Will it glorify God? (1 Cor. 10:31) Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
2. Can it be done for the Lord? (Col. 3:23) And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
3. Can it be done in the name of Jesus? (Col. 3:17) And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
4. Would it hinder another Christian? (Rom. 14:21) It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. (1 Cor. 10:32) Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: (1 Cor. 8:13) Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.
5. How about its appearance to others? (1 Thess. 5:22) Abstain from all appearance of evil.
6. Does it involve the wrong company? (2 Cor. 6:14) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
7. Does it compromise me? (1 Cor. 6:12) All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
8. Is it God's will for me? (James 4:15) For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
9. Am I willing to face it in the judgment? (2 Cor. 5:10) For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
10. Will it defile the temple of the Holy Ghost? (1 Cor. 6:19-20) 19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.
If our conduct can pass the above ten tests, we most likely have nothing to fear, in what we are doing.

In chapters 8 and 10, Paul deals with Christian liberty. This chapter deals with one aspect of this liberty. Paul had the liberty to accept or reject any financial support offered by them, and he sets out to tell them why in this lesson.
I. THE PREACHER'S RIGHT TO RECEIVE SUPPORT. v. 1-14

A. The Preacher's Privilege. v. 1-6

1. His identity. v. 1-2. According to v. 3, some of the Corinthians were examining Paul and his ministry. This chapter gives his answer. One of the qualifications for being an apostle was that he must have seen the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul did so on the road to Damascus, when he was saved. (1 Cor. 15:8) And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. (Acts 1:21-22) 21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
The apostles were used by God to lay the foundation of Church doctrine. (Eph. 2:19-22) 19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: 22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
2. His liberty. v. 3-6. Paul was not married, but other apostles were. Cephas (Peter) had a wife that must have traveled with him, at least part of the time, according to v. 5. Paul had the power to forbear working, but he did not do so. v. 6

B. The Preacher's Support. v. 7-14
This is a question that is often debated. Should a preacher be supported by the Church where he is ministering. Paul says that he has, and he ardently defends it.

1. He defends it by custom. v. 7. A soldiers is furnished a uniform and equipment, and he is paid a wage. The farmer that plants and tends to the vine, has a right to eat of the fruit. The shepherd that cares for the flock, has the right to eat of the flock.
2. He defends it by the law. v. 8-11. (Deut. 25:4) Thou shalt not muzzle the ox when he treadeth out the corn.
There have been preachers who have abused this power. Among Godly Scriptural preachers, there have been for more cases of churches abusing the pastor in financial matters. Those who preach the Word have a right to be supported. (Gal. 6:6) Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. The word "communicate" means to give finances to the preacher. (1 Tim. 5:17-18) 17 Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. 18 For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward.
3. He defends it by precedent. v. 12. Other churches did support Paul in mission work. (Phil. 4:15-16) 15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. 16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. (2 Cor. 11:8) I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service. Apparently, according to v. 12a, other ministers had received financial support from the Church at Corinth.
4. He defends it by the priesthood. v. 13. The priest in the Tabernacle and Temple did have their support supplied. (See Num. 18:8-32; Lev. 6:14-7:36; 27:6-33)
5. He defends it by the Lord Jesus Christ. v. 14. (Luke 10:7-8) 7 And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house. 8 And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you: (Matt. 10:10) Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.

A. The Preacher's Motives. v. 15-18

1. Paul's motive for teaching these things was not to get money. He was not hinting that they give him money. v. 15. According to v. 12, and v. 16, the gospel of Christ was the number one thing for him. (Matt. 6:33) But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
2. Paul's passion in preaching the gospel. v. 16
3. Paul reward. v. 17-18
It is sad that the unsaved world sometimes believe that preachers and churches are only out for the money. Unfortunately, some religious hucksters are in it for the money.

B. The Preacher's Adaptability. v. 19-23
Paul was willing to adapt to different classes of men in order to win them to Christ. He did not compromise to do this. He is not talking about adapting to the immorality of others. Nor is he talking about changing the doctrine of God to suit others. Paul was no chameleon-- changing his doctrine to fit the crowd he was with. He was willing to adapt to the manners and customs of the people, as long as it did not conflict with God's word.
Jesus constantly adapted his conversation to the different people He was dealing with. He talked to the woman at the well about water, leading on in the conversation to the water of life. He talked to the fisherman about fishing for men. He talked to the farmers about sowing the seed. In each instance he used the topic under discussion to set forth spiritual truths. This is a great example for every Christian.

1. Paul's burden for the Jews. v. 19-20. (Rom. 9:1-3) 1 I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, 2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: (Rom. 10:1) Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.
2. Paul's burden for the Gentiles. v. 21. He was called to the Gentiles. (Eph. 3:8) Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
3. Paul's burden for the weak. v. 22a
4. The reason for his burden. v. 22b-23

C. The Preacher's Responsibility. v. 24-27

1. Every Christian is in a race. v. 24-25. Near Corinth the Greek games were conducted. He used this event to teach them Bible truth.

a. The object in a race is to win the prize. v. 24. In the Christian race of service, every runner that is faithful, will receive the prize. (Phil. 2:16) Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain. (Phil. 3:14) I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
b. The rules of the race. v. 25a. A good athlete is "temperate in all things." He is temperate in diet, in activities, etc. So must the Christian be, if he expects to prevail. (James 1:12) Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.
c. The goal--to receive the incorruptible crown. v. 25. In the Grecian games, the winner was usually awarded a garland of flowers for a crown. Of course they would soon fade. The Christian who is faithful will receive an incorruptible crown that will never fade.

2. Every Christian should take the contest seriously. v. 26-27

a. The race and the fight, is real and not uncertain. v. 26. It is not shadow boxing.
b. Self control must be practiced. v. 27a. The body must be kept in subjection. "I keep under" literally means to beat the body black and blue. It is severe training, as a boxer might discipline himself in severe training.
c. The great peril to be avoided. v. 27b. The Christian that fails to keep his body under control, will become a castaway. The Greek word for "castaway" was used in the Greek games to notify that a certain man was disqualified. It did not mean that he had lost his citizenship, or that he was going to jail. It meant that he was not qualified to compete for the prize. He lost his reward. A Christian "castaway" does not lose his salvation, but he or she is no longer useful to God, and will likely be put on the shelf. (1 Cor. 3:14-15) 14 If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15 If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. There are many Christians today who are castaways. Some of them are pastors and missionaries. Others are Sunday School teachers, trustees, and deacons. How tragic that so many are losing the prize.

This chapter warns the Christian of sin and its awful consequences. Drawing from the experiences of Israel in the Old Testament, Paul presents a powerful warning for New Testament saints. This warning is constantly needed by God's people today.
I. BE RESPONSIBLE IN THE MATTER OF SEPARATION. v. 1-15

A. Believers Have Been Given Great Blessing. v. 1-4

1. We should not be ignorant of God's blessings. v. 1. Israel had been delivered and so have Christians today, yet that does not guarantee success. (1 Cor. 5:7-8)
2. They were baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea. v. 1-2. The cloud was a type of the Holy Spirit, and a symbol of the presence and guidance of God. Their passage through the Red Sea, with the cloud above and the water on either side was a type of baptism.
3. Verse 2 furnishes us with a good argument against the baptismal regeneration theory often proclaimed by the "Church of Christ" and others. "Baptized unto Moses" does not mean that they were baptized into Moses, but rather they were set apart unto Moses as his disciples or followers. "Unto" in v. 2, is the Greek word "eis," and is translated "into" in Rom. 6:3, and "for" in Acts 2:38. To build a church and most of its doctrines on the little Greek word "eis" is a very foolish thing. According to Young's Concordance, "eis" is translated the following ways, against 25 times, among 16, at 20, for 91, in 131, into 571, that 30, on 57, to 282, toward 32, unto 208, and upon 25 times.
4. The meaning of spiritual meat and spiritual drink. The spiritual meat is the manna. (Ex. 16:35) And the children of Israel did eat manna forty years.... The spiritual drink is the water from the rock. (Ex. 17:6) Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. (Num. 20:8) Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.
5. We as Christians have had even greater privileges. (John 6:48-51) 48 I am that bread of life. 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. 50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. (John 7:37-38) 37 In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. 38 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
6. In verses 1 and 2, we have the Old Testament picture of baptism. In verses 3 and 4, we have the Old Testament picture of the Lord's Supper.
7. Remember that this people had already been saved by the blood of the passover lamb, which had been slain down in Egypt. The blood of the passover lamb was a type of the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 1:29) The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. The firstborn of each Israelite family in Egypt would have perished without the blood of the lamb. All who are without the blood of Christ will perish today.

B. Believers Have Been Given Great Warnings. v. 5-15

1. God overthrew those guilty of sin. v. 5
2. God has given us these examples so that we can escape the same mistakes. v. 6
3. The golden calf, built as an idol, brought judgment. v. 7. (See Ex. 32) Whenever we put anything between us and God, it becomes an idol. We can do this with pleasure, some person, possessions, fame, etc.
4. Fornication brought judgment. v. 8. (Num. 25:1-5) 1 And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. 2 And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods. 3 And Israel joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel. 4 And the LORD said unto Moses, Take all the heads of the people, and hang them up before the LORD against the sun, that the fierce anger of the LORD may be turned away from Israel. 5 And Moses said unto the judges of Israel, Slay ye every one his men that were joined unto Baalpeor.
5. Tempting God brought judgment. v. 9. (Num. 21:4-6) 4 And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to compass the land of Edom: and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way. 5 And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread. 6 And the LORD sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people of Israel died. The only cure for this death was the brazen serpent, and Jesus used this as an example of the remedy for sin today. (John 3:14-15) 14 And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: 15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
6. Murmuring against God and His leaders brings judgment. v. 10 (Num. 14:2) And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! (See Num. 14:26-29) (Num. 26:65) For the LORD had said of them, They shall surely die in the wilderness. And there was not left a man of them, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun.
7. This presents us with an example not to follow. v. 11
8. Let us beware of being over confident of our own power. v. 12. The "fall" mentioned here is not falling from grace, but rather falling into sin and perhaps becoming a castaway, as in 1 Cor. 9:27. (Prov. 16:18) Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. What does this have to do with the Corinthians? They were guilty of immorality (1 Cor. 6), idolatry (1 Cor. 8:10), and murmuring against God (2 Cor. 12:20-21).
9. God's wonderful promise. v. 13. Temptation will come to every Christian, but God has promised to limit that temptation to our God given ability to resist, and He will make a way of escape.
10. Flee from idolatry for it is demonic. v. 14. (Deut. 32:17) They sacrificed unto devils, not to God.... (Psa. 106:37) Yea, they sacrificed their sons and their daughters unto devils,

A. The Meaning Of The Lord's Supper. v. 16-18

1. The elements of the Lord's Supper are symbols of His body and His blood. v. 16
2. We are to be in unity as one body when we partake of it. v. 17
3. What Israel did was a symbol of what we do. v. 18

B. The Perversion Of The Lord's Supper. v. 19-22

1. We cannot follow the example of lost people. v. 19-20
2. The worship of unsaved people often becomes a sacrifice to devils. v. 21
3. Believers, see the danger of provoking the Lord. v. 22

A. We Have A Responsibility To Fellow Christians. v. 23-30

1. Although a thing may be lawful for us, we must consider how it will affect others. v. 23-24
2. When invited into the home of an unbeliever, you need not inquire if the meat was bought in the shambles (meat market or food market), and if it had been offered to an idol. v. 25-27. Verse 26 is quoted from Psa. 24:1.
3. If you are told that it has been offered to an idol, do not eat it. v. 28-30

B. We Are Responsible To God And For The Lost. v. 31-33

1. The glory of God should be foremost in our minds, in all that we do. v. 31. (Col. 3:17, 23-24) 17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. 23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; 24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
2. We are not to offend others by our conduct. v. 32. Note that there are three groups in this verse, Jews, Gentiles, and the church of God. They are not the same. (Rom. 14:13) Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
3. Our purpose is not to please self, but to see others saved. v. 33. (See 1 Cor. 9:22).

--Lesson by E. L. Bynum

I. DISORDER IN THE CHURCH SERVICES. v. 1-16

A. Paul's Charge To The Church. v. 1-2

1. They were to follow Paul. v. 1. (Phil. 3:17) Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
2. They were to keep the ordinances as he had delivered them to the Church. v. 2. (2 Thess. 2:15) Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. There are only two ordinances given to the church. They are baptism and the Lord's Supper. The place of baptism and the Lord's Supper is in the Scriptural church, not outside the church.
3. This does not allow any deviation to suit the traditions of men. These two ordinances cannot be altered to fit human tradition.

B. Paul's Correction Concerning Women And Worship. v. 3-16

1. God's order in headship. v. 3. (Eph. 1:22) And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, (Eph. 5:22-23) 22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
2. Men are not to wear a head covering made of cloth or a long growth of hair. v. 4
3. A woman should have her head covered when she prays or prophesies. v. 5. She need not wear a cloth covering, because her hair is given to her as a covering. See v. 15.
4. The place where a woman can pray and prophesy. v. 5. This would be in private, or in a gathering of women or children. Philip had four daughters that prophesied, but nothing is said about them doing this in the Church. (Acts 21:9) And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy. In fact forbids a woman prophesying in the Church services. (1 Cor. 14:34) Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. (1 Tim. 2:11-12) 11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.
5. Shorn means she has her hair cut very short like a man. v. 6. If it was shaven, this was done with a razor. This was a shame, because it was the way of harlots and slave women. (Deut. 21:12) Then thou shalt bring her home to thine house; and she shall shave her head, and pare her nails;
6. Man ought not to cover his head with cloth or long hair, when he prays or prophesies. v. 7. (Gen. 1:26) And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. (Gen. 3:16) Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
7. The question of headship is settled. v. 8-10. (Gen. 2:18, 21-22) 18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him. 21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; 22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
8. Men and women are mutually dependent on each other. v. 11-12
9. In view of the previous verses concerning headship, it is not proper for a woman to pray with her head uncovered. v. 13
10. Nature teaches us that long hair on a man is a shame. v. 14. Women tend to have more hair, and keep it longer than men. There are many bald headed men, but very few bald headed women. That is nature teaching us. Even if a woman is bald headed, she will never be seen without a wig. Long hair on men is a shame today, just as it was in the days of Paul. Short hair was the style of Greek, Roman, and Jewish men. The one exception to this was the Nazarites among the Jews. Jesus was not a Nazarite. (See "Did Jesus Wear Long Hair" by E. L. Bynum. It is tract # B-402) Other men who wore long hair were rebels against God. This was the case with Absalom. (2 Sam. 14:26) And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year's end that he polled it: because the hair was heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred shekels after the king's weight.
11. The woman's hair was given to her for a covering. v. 15. The word for covering is translated covering (1) and vesture (1). It means a covering thrown around, a wrapper, a mantle, or a veil.
12. Verse 16 cannot be used to nullify the previous verses. v. 16. It is already a settled issue among the churches of Paul's day. It should still be a settled issue, for God never changes His word.