Bible Study Background
Our Wednesday Bible Study, led by Major Beverley McCombe, is currently studying the first letter from Paul to the church at Corinth.
Major Beverley McCombe
Here are some explanatory notes:
Purpose: To identify problems in the Corinthian Church, to offer solutions and to teach the believers how to live for Christ in a corrupt society
Author: Paul
To whom written: The church in Corinth
Date written: Approx. AD 55 near the end of Paul’s 3 year ministry in Ephesus, during his 3rd missionary journey. (Acts 19:1-20.1)
Setting: Corinth was a major cosmopolitan city, a seaport and major trade centre- the most important city in Achaia. It was also filled with idolatry and immortality. The church was largely made up of Gentiles.
Paul had established this church on his 2nd missionary journey. (Acts 18:1-18). The church met in homes, probably in groups of about 30-50. This figure is estimated from the excavations of several large houses in Corinth dating from the first century. Maybe one such cell group met in Stephanas’ home. (1 Cor: 1:16)
On a bed of grass, a chameleon’s skin turns green. On the earth it becomes brown. The animal changes to match the environment. Many creatures blend into nature with God-given camouflage suits to aid their survival. It’s natural to fit in and adapt to the environment. But followers of Christ are new creations, born from above and changed from within, with values and lifestyles that confront the world and clash with accepted ways of living. True believers don’t blend in very well.
The Christians in Corinth were struggling with their environment. Surrounded by corruption and every conceivable sin they felt the pressure to adapt. They knew they were free in Christ, but what did this freedom mean? How should they view idols, or sexuality? What should they do about marriage, women in the church and the gifts of the Spirit? These were more than theoretical questions – the church was being undermined by immorality and spiritual immaturity. The believers’ faith was being tried in the crucible of immoral Corinth, and some of them were failing the test.
Paul heard of their struggles and wrote this letter to address their problems, heal their divisions, and answer their questions. Paul confronted them with their sin and their need for corrective action and clear commitment to Christ.
Local readers are welcome to join the study group on Wednesday evenings at 8pm in our Church Street Hall.
Here’s how to find us:
Click on the maps for a larger version. Please contact us for further information