1. In this lesson, the statement is made that “throughout the history of time, man has become the problem in God’s plan.” Explain what is meant by this comment, and why it is the case that man has become “the problem.”
2. Paul says, “I wanted to speak to you as to men, as to spiritual ones, but you are still carnal; you are still babes in Christ” (1 Cor. 3:1-4). Explain what the apostle meant when he referred to the Corinthian Christians as “babes,” and why he did not consider this to be a good thing.
3. In 1 Corinthians 3:6, Paul said: “I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase.” In modern-day terminology, how does this apply to us today? Give a specific example as to how this might occur.
4. In Matthew 13, Mark 4, and Luke 8, Jesus used a parable about four different types of soil to teach an important spiritual principle. List each of the soil types, and tell what specific group of people they represented. Then, explain the important spiritual principle contained within the parable.
5. In 1 Corinthians 3:11, Paul wrote: “No other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” Keeping in mind the context of the first three chapters of 1 Corinthians, explain why Paul would make such a statement—and how it applies even to our condition today as members of Christ’s church.
6. In Acts 18:24-28, we read of a man by the name of Apollos who needed to be taught “the way of the Lord more perfectly.” Why was this the case? And how did Apollos react to this constructive criticism?
7. In Acts 8:26-40, Philip asked the Ethiopian nobleman, “Do you understand what you are reading?” Explain the urgency of “understanding what we are reading,” even today. Factor into your discussion 2 Timothy 2:15.
8. Paul states that all spiritual blessings are “in Christ” (Eph. 1:3). What are some of those spiritual blessings?
9. From Romans 8, Christians learn what it means to be “in Christ.” Explain some of the benefits of being in Christ.
10. Paul wrote: “Let no one boast in men” (1 Cor. 3:21). What is his point?
11. In 1 Corinthians 4:1, Paul reminded Christians that we are “servants of Christ and stewards of the mystery of God.” What did he mean by those two designations?
12. In 1 Corinthians 4:6, Paul warned Christians that they should “not think beyond what is written, so that none of you may be puffed up on behalf of one against the other.” There are two important principles contained in this single verse. What are they?
13. In this lesson, we discussed two key concepts presented by Paul to ensure that we are doing the will of God. What are they?
THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST, 607 McLish Ave., Ardmore, OK 73401; (580) 223-3289; www.thegospelofchrist.com