1. What is the overriding theme of the Book of 1 Corinthians, and in what chapter and verse can that theme be found?
2. What is the connection between Jesus’ prayer in John 17:21 and Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 3:11? How does Acts 4:12 fit into this discussion?
3. In 1 Corinthians 4:6, the apostle Paul says that we are not to go beyond the things that are written. The apostle John, in 2 John 9, says that we should not go beyond the doctrine of Christ. Explain what the two apostles were trying to get across to their readers.
4. According to 1 Corinthians 5, when a Christian is living in sin and will not repent, what action should the church as a whole take?
5. Explain Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 7:15 that a Christian is “not under bondage” if their unbelieving mate leaves the marriage relationship.
6. In Matthew 19:9, Jesus said that there was an acceptable reason for a divorce to occur. What was that reason?
7. Some have suggested that, in 1 Corinthians 7, Paul offered a second acceptable reason for divorce, using what has been referred to as “the Pauline privilege.” What was that second reason for divorce? What is “the Pauline privilege”? Does 1 Corinthians 7 offer a second acceptable reason for divorce?
8. Paul opened 1 Corinthians 8 with the statement that “knowledge puffs up, but love builds up.” What was his point—in the context of this chapter?
9. As a general rule, according to Paul’s instructions in chapter 8, Christians could purchase and consume meat that had been offered to idols, and there would be nothing at all wrong with their actions. But Paul provided one example of a case where such an action would not be permissible. Use the text of chapter 8 to explain Paul’s point, and his reason for placing a restriction on the eating of meats in certain instances.
10. In at least two places in the New Testament (1 Cor. 10:12 and Gal. 5:4), Paul warned about people “falling away.” Discuss the import and meaning of these passages.
11. Explain the perversion of the Lord’s Supper that had occurred in the church in Corinth, and Paul’s method of correcting the problem. In your discussion, list several of the warnings he provided for the Christians in Corinth.
12. In chapters 12-14, Paul discussed at length the “confusion” that was occurring in the church at Corinth in regard to miracles. What problems had arisen concerning miraculous gifts? What was Paul’s solution?
13. What is “the perfect” of 1 Corinthians 13:10?
14. Give two purposes for miracles. Why were miracles never intended to be permanent?
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