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Welcome to a new 14 day study on the books of 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians. I wanted to take a quick minute to say thank you to everyone who has been following along with my previous blog series and studies. I have noticed a significant increase in the amount of daily visits to the website and, in partcular to these bible studies. I take great encouragement from that people have been engaging into these studies and I pray that the Lord blesses you through them. I love the word of God and was recently called a real student of the word by a frined at church and although I have never truly thought of myself in that way, I guess it is becoming more and more true each day as I continue to seek God for a deep understanding of His word in order to gain a deeper insight into the identity that He has called me into. I want a depp relationshi with the Lord, and I want that for you as well. When I finished my first book Purpose Driven Legacy I started to feel the Lord say to me that I am not done. To live a life of real purpose that focuses on God means that we must walk with him daily, and I felt the Lord’s calling to continue writing and each of these bible studies are the work that I feel the Lord has called me to do. I pray that they bless you tremendously. And if you find them useful please consider purchasing the books and sharing them with friends and family. I need all the support I can get from God’s people. So with that said let’s dive into day one of our bible study on the books of 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians.
Day 1: Introduction to the Corinthian Church
Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 1:1-9
Devotional:
As we embark on this journey through the struggles and triumphs of the Corinthian church, it’s important to understand where it all began. The church at Corinth was founded by the Apostle Paul during one of his missionary journeys. Located in the bustling and diverse city of Corinth, this church was positioned at the crossroads of trade, culture, and a wide range of religious practices. Corinth was a thriving center of wealth and commerce but also infamous for its moral corruption, idol worship, and spiritual confusion.
The church in Corinth was unique because it was made up of both Jews and Gentiles, which brought together people from different social, cultural, and economic backgrounds. While this diversity gave the church a richness of experience, it also created tension. The believers faced constant pressure to conform to the surrounding pagan culture. The temptation to engage in idol worship and moral compromise was ever-present, and this led to internal conflicts that Paul had to address.
In 1 Corinthians 1:1-9, Paul opens his letter with a tone of gratitude and encouragement, reminding the Corinthians of their calling and the grace of God in their lives. He highlights the spiritual gifts they possess, reminding them that they have been enriched in every way through Jesus Christ. Even though they were struggling with division, pride, and confusion, Paul’s opening words are a reminder that God’s grace is the foundation of their faith.
Reflection:
- The Corinthian church was deeply influenced by its surrounding culture. How does the culture around you impact your walk with Christ?
- Despite their challenges, Paul reminded the Corinthians of the grace God had given them. In what areas of your life do you need to be reminded of God’s grace today?
Application:
Today, take some time to reflect on your own spiritual journey. Just like the Corinthians, we are often influenced by the world around us, and it can sometimes be difficult to remain steadfast in our faith. Write down any areas where you feel you’re being pulled by the world and offer those to God in prayer. Ask Him for the strength to stand firm in His grace, just as Paul reminded the Corinthians to do.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the grace You’ve given us, even when we struggle with the pressures and temptations of the world around us. Help us to remember that You have enriched us in every way through Jesus Christ. Strengthen us to stand firm in our faith and to reflect Your love in all we do. Guide us as we seek to follow You more closely each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.