1 Corinthians
The Corinthian church contained some Jews, but more Gentiles, and the apostle had to contend
with the superstition of the one, and the sinful conduct of the other. The peace of this church was
disturbed by false teachers, who undermined the influence of the apostle. Two parties were the
result; one contending earnestly for the Jewish ceremonies, the other indulging in excesses contrary
to the gospel, to which they were especially led by the luxury and the sins which prevailed around
them. This epistle was written to rebuke some disorderly conduct, of which the apostle had been
apprized, and to give advice as to some points whereon his judgment was requested by the
Corinthians. Thus the scope was twofold. 1. To apply suitable remedies to the disorders and abuses
which prevailed among them. 2. To give satisfactory answers on all the points upon which his
advice had been desired. The address, and Christian mildness, yet firmness, with which the apostle
writes, and goes on from general truths directly to oppose the errors and evil conduct of the
Corinthians, is very remarkable. He states the truth and the will of God, as to various matters, with
great force of argument and animation of style.
Chapter 1
Chapter Outline
A salutation and thanksgiving. (1–9)
Exhortation to brotherly love, and reproof (10–16)
for divisions.
The doctrine of a crucified Saviour, as (17–25)
advancing the glory of God,
and humbling the creature before him. (26–31)Verses 1–9
All Christians are by baptism dedicated and devoted to Christ, and are under strict obligations
to be holy. But in the true church of God are all who are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be
saints, and who call upon him as God manifest in the flesh, for all the blessings of salvation; who
acknowledge and obey him as their Lord, and as Lord of all; it includes no other persons. Christians
are distinguished from the profane and atheists, that they dare not live without prayer; and they are
distinguished from Jews and pagans, that they call on the name of Christ. Observe how often in
these verses the apostle repeats the words, Our Lord Jesus Christ. He feared not to make too frequent
or too honourable mention of him. To all who called upon Christ, the apostle gave his usual
salutation, desiring, in their behalf, the pardoning mercy, sanctifying grace, and comforting peace
of God, through Jesus Christ. Sinners can have no peace with God, nor any from him, but through
Christ. He gives thanks for their conversion to the faith of Christ; that grace was given them by
Jesus Christ. They had been enriched by him with all spiritual gifts. He speaks of utterance and
knowledge. And where God has given these two gifts, he has given great power for usefulness.