A Church in Chaos, A Savior Who Still Saves
A Study Guide for Christians Who Need Correction and Encouragement
1. Introduction: Welcome to Corinth—Gifted but Messy
The Corinthian church was full of problems: division, immorality, pride, and confusion.
Yet Paul opens the letter by affirming their identity in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:1–9).
This book reminds us that being saved doesn’t mean we’re perfect—but it does mean we must be transformed.
Reflection: God doesn’t throw us away when we’re messy. But He does love us enough to clean house.
2. Division in the Church
The Corinthians were split over which leader to follow—Paul, Apollos, Cephas, or Christ (1 Corinthians 1:10–17).
Paul reminds them that the cross unites us, not human personalities or preferences.
Real spiritual maturity is marked by unity and humility.
Takeaway: Church cliques and ego-driven platforms tear down what Christ died to build up.
3. Sin, Tolerance, and Church Discipline
Sexual immorality, lawsuits between believers, and spiritual arrogance were tolerated (Chapters 5–6).
Paul calls the church to confront sin—not out of legalism, but love for holiness and the health of the body.
Lesson: Grace doesn’t ignore sin. It gives us the power to overcome it—and to lovingly confront it.
4. Marriage, Singleness, and Sexuality
Paul addresses questions about relationships (Chapter 7).
Both marriage and singleness are honorable, but both require devotion to Christ.
Purity is God’s standard—and the body is not your own.
Encouragement: Your relationship status doesn’t define your worth—your faithfulness to God does.
5. Freedom and Responsibility
Just because something is “permissible” doesn’t mean it’s beneficial (1 Corinthians 8–10).
Paul warns against using freedom in Christ as a license to cause others to stumble.
Truth: Real love limits itself for the sake of others.
6. Order in Worship and Spiritual Gifts
Chapters 11–14 deal with church gatherings, head coverings, the Lord’s Supper, tongues, prophecy, and more.
Paul stresses that all gifts should build up the church—not confuse or divide it.
Love—not performance—is the greatest gift (Chapter 13).
Reminder: Spiritual gifts are not proof of maturity. Love is.
7. The Resurrection Is Everything
Chapter 15 defends the resurrection of Christ and promises ours.
Without the resurrection, our faith is worthless (15:14).
But because Christ rose, we can live—and die—with unshakable hope.
Hope: The resurrection isn’t just a doctrine—it’s our anchor in suffering, loss, and eternity.
8. Key Verses to Memorize or Meditate On
1 Corinthians 1:18 – “For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us… it is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 6:19–20 – “You are not your own… you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.”
1 Corinthians 10:23 – “All things are lawful, but not all things are helpful.”
1 Corinthians 13:4–7 – “Love is patient and kind… it bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.”
1 Corinthians 15:58 – “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord…”
9. Questions for Discussion or Journaling
Why do you think Paul starts by affirming the Corinthians despite their serious issues?
What kind of division have you seen in churches—and how should it be addressed?
How do Paul’s teachings challenge the modern church’s view of sin and discipline?
What stands out to you most about Paul’s teaching on love in chapter 13?
How does the resurrection give you purpose and hope—even when life is hard?
In what ways is God calling you to grow in spiritual maturity?