1 Corinthians 12 to 14

Common Theme

Paul explains that spiritual gifts come from one Spirit and are given to build up the church. Love is the essential motive and measure for using those gifts, and orderly worship protects the unity and edification of the body.

Questions

• How does seeing gifts as Spirit given reshape the way you view your own role in the church?
• In what ways does love clarify when and how your gifts should be used?

God Shot

God reveals Himself as the generous Giver who equips His people with diverse gifts for one purpose, the strengthening of His church. He shows His heart for order and love by shaping worship that reflects His character of peace, unity, and care.

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Deeper

1 Corinthians 12

The text discusses spiritual gifts and the unity of the body of Christ. It emphasizes that believers, regardless of their backgrounds, are empowered by the same Spirit and are given various gifts for the common good. These gifts include wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, and the ability to discern and interpret tongues. The passage illustrates that just as a body has many parts, each with its own function, so too does the church consist of many members, each essential to the whole. No member can claim independence from others, as all are interconnected and must care for one another. The text concludes by highlighting the diversity of roles within the church and encourages the pursuit of higher gifts, suggesting a more excellent way to serve.

1 Corinthians 13

The text emphasizes the importance of love, stating that without it, even great abilities and sacrifices are meaningless. Love is described as patient, kind, and devoid of negative traits like arrogance and resentment. It endures and never ends, while other gifts like prophecy and knowledge will fade. Ultimately, love is the greatest virtue among faith, hope, and love.

1 Corinthians 14

The text discusses the importance of love and the pursuit of spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy, over speaking in tongues. It emphasizes that speaking in tongues is a personal communication with God, while prophecy serves to build up and encourage the church community. The author encourages the congregation to seek understanding and clarity in their speech, as unintelligible words do not benefit others. He suggests that those who speak in tongues should pray for interpretation to ensure that their contributions are meaningful. The text also highlights the distinction between the roles of tongues and prophecy, noting that tongues are a sign for unbelievers, while prophecy serves believers.

Furthermore, it outlines guidelines for orderly worship, recommending that only a few speak in tongues at a time and that there should be interpretation. Prophets should also speak in turn, allowing for learning and encouragement. The text includes instructions regarding women’s participation in church, stating they should remain silent and ask questions at home. Ultimately, it calls for a desire for prophecy and the proper use of spiritual gifts, ensuring that all activities in the church are conducted decently and in order.

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1 Corinthians 9–11

Common Theme
God calls His people to surrender personal rights for the sake of the gospel, pursuing a life of disciplined devotion and reverence for His presence. He provides clear order and purpose in worship, anchoring the church in Christ’s sacrificial example.

Questions

• What personal rights or preferences might God be inviting you to lay down for the good of others or the advance of the gospel?
• How does Paul’s view of self-discipline challenge your approach to spiritual growth?

God Shot
God reveals Himself as generous and self-giving, the One who models sacrificial love that shapes how His people treat one another. He is also holy and worthy of reverence, especially as His church gathers to remember the Lord’s Supper and honor His name.

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Deeper

1 Corinthians 9

In this passage, Paul defends his apostleship and discusses his rights as a preacher of the gospel. He asserts that, like other apostles, he has the right to receive support, such as food and a believing wife, for his ministry. However, he chooses not to exercise these rights to avoid hindering the gospel’s progress. Paul emphasizes that preaching the gospel is a necessity for him, and he prefers to do so without charge to maintain his integrity. He adapts his approach to different groups—Jews, those under the law, and the weak—to win them over for Christ. Paul compares his efforts to an athlete striving for an imperishable prize, highlighting the importance of self-discipline and control to ensure he remains qualified to preach the gospel effectively.

1 Corinthians 10

The text warns against idolatry, using the experiences of the Israelites as examples for believers. It emphasizes that despite their shared spiritual experiences, many Israelites faced God’s displeasure due to their idolatrous actions, sexual immorality, and grumbling. Believers are urged to avoid these behaviors and recognize that temptations are common, but God provides a way to endure them. The passage also discusses the significance of participating in the Lord’s Supper, highlighting the unity among believers as one body in Christ. It cautions against engaging with idols, equating such actions with participation in demonic practices. Finally, it encourages believers to act for the good of others, ensuring that their actions glorify God and do not offend others, whether Jews, Greeks, or fellow Christians, while seeking the salvation of many.

1 Corinthians 11

The text discusses two main topics: head coverings and the Lord’s Supper. It begins by encouraging believers to imitate Christ and maintain traditions. It explains the hierarchy of authority, stating that Christ is the head of every man, the husband is the head of the wife, and God is the head of Christ. It emphasizes that men should not cover their heads while praying or prophesying, whereas women should cover their heads to honor their husbands. The text also addresses the Lord’s Supper, criticizing divisions within the church during gatherings. It highlights the improper conduct of some members who eat and drink without consideration for others, leading to humiliation of the less fortunate. The passage recounts Jesus’ institution of the Lord’s Supper, urging believers to partake in a worthy manner, examining themselves to avoid judgment. Finally, it advises the congregation to wait for one another during meals to ensure unity.

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1 Corinthians 5–8

Common Theme
God calls His people to holiness that reflects His character, dealing with sin seriously while walking in love that builds up others. He teaches that freedom in Christ is guided by responsibility, humility, and a desire to honor Him above personal rights.

Questions

• How does Paul’s correction challenge your view of what genuine love and holiness look like in community?
• In what ways might your personal freedoms need to be limited for the spiritual good of others?

God Shot
God shows Himself as holy and deeply committed to the purity of His people. He is also wise and patient, guiding believers to use their freedom in ways that reflect His love and protect the faith of others.

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Deeper

1 Corinthians 5

The text addresses sexual immorality within the church, highlighting a case of a man involved with his father’s wife. The author expresses disapproval of the church’s arrogance and calls for mourning and removal of the offender. Emphasizing the importance of purity, the text warns that a little sin can corrupt the whole community. It instructs the church to avoid associating with those who claim to be believers but engage in immoral behavior, asserting that judgment should focus on those within the church.

1 Corinthians 6

The text addresses the issue of lawsuits among believers, questioning why they would take disputes to secular courts instead of resolving them within the church. It emphasizes that believers are called to judge the world and even angels, suggesting they should be capable of handling trivial matters. The text warns against the unrighteous, listing various sinful behaviors that exclude individuals from inheriting the kingdom of God, while reminding them of their redemption through Christ. It also urges believers to flee sexual immorality, highlighting the sanctity of their bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit and the importance of glorifying God through their actions.

1 Corinthians 7

The text discusses principles for marriage and living according to one’s calling. It begins by addressing the importance of marriage in the context of sexual immorality, emphasizing that each man and woman should have their own spouse. Husbands and wives are encouraged to fulfill each other’s conjugal rights and not to deprive one another, except for mutual agreement for prayer. The author expresses a preference for singleness but acknowledges that marriage is better than succumbing to passion.

Instructions are given regarding separation and divorce, stating that a wife should not leave her husband and vice versa, but if separation occurs, reconciliation is encouraged. The text also addresses mixed-faith marriages, suggesting that believers should not divorce their unbelieving spouses if they are willing to stay.

The author advises individuals to remain in their current state when called by God, whether married or single, and highlights the importance of focusing on spiritual matters over worldly concerns. The text concludes with guidance for betrothed individuals, allowing marriage if necessary but suggesting that remaining single may be preferable for undivided devotion to the Lord. Lastly, it notes that a widow is free to remarry but should do so in the Lord, with the author’s personal judgment favoring continued singleness for greater happiness.

1 Corinthians 8

The text discusses food offered to idols, emphasizing that while knowledge can lead to arrogance, love is more important. It acknowledges that there is only one true God, but not everyone possesses this understanding. Eating food offered to idols does not affect one’s standing with God, but it can harm those with weaker consciences. The author stresses the importance of being considerate of others, stating that if eating causes a brother to stumble, they will abstain from eating meat.

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1 Corinthians 1–4

Common Theme
God dismantles human pride by revealing that true wisdom and power are found in the message of the cross, not in human status or eloquence. He calls His people to unity and spiritual maturity by aligning their allegiance with Christ alone.

Questions

• Where might human wisdom or preference be subtly replacing dependence on God’s truth?
• How do divisions reveal misplaced loyalty or misunderstanding of spiritual leadership?

God Shot
God reveals Himself as infinitely wise, choosing what the world calls foolish to display His glory and power. He is the source of all true growth, faithfully working through His servants to accomplish His purposes.

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Deeper

1 Corinthians 1

Paul, called by God’s will to be an apostle, addresses the church in Corinth, extending grace and peace. He expresses gratitude for the grace given to them in Christ, noting their enrichment in speech and knowledge, and assures them of God’s faithfulness. Paul appeals for unity among the believers, urging them to avoid divisions and quarreling over allegiance to different leaders. He emphasizes that Christ is not divided and that he was sent to preach the gospel, not to baptize. Paul contrasts worldly wisdom with the power of the cross, stating that the message of Christ crucified is seen as foolishness by many but is the power of God for those being saved. He reminds them that God chose the weak and foolish to confound the wise, ensuring that no one can boast before Him, and that their identity in Christ brings wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption.

1 Corinthians 2

The passage emphasizes the importance of proclaiming Jesus Christ and his crucifixion without relying on human wisdom or eloquence. The speaker expresses that their message was delivered in weakness, relying on the Spirit’s power to strengthen faith. It contrasts worldly wisdom with the hidden wisdom of God, which is revealed through the Spirit. The text highlights that only those with the Spirit can understand divine truths, while the natural person finds them foolish. Ultimately, believers possess the mind of Christ, enabling them to discern spiritual matters.

1 Corinthians 3

The text discusses divisions within the Church, addressing the congregation as immature and still influenced by jealousy and strife. The author emphasizes that both Paul and Apollos are merely servants of God, with God being the true source of growth. Each person’s work will be tested, and rewards will be given based on the quality of their contributions. The congregation is reminded that they are God’s temple, and destroying it will lead to divine consequences. The text warns against worldly wisdom, asserting that true wisdom comes from God, and encourages unity in Christ, who belongs to God.

1 Corinthians 4

The text discusses how apostles should be viewed as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness. The author expresses indifference to human judgment, stating that only the Lord can judge. He advises against premature judgment and encourages humility, reminding the audience that all they have is received from God. The apostles are portrayed as suffering and disreputable, contrasting with the perceived success of the Corinthians. The author seeks to admonish rather than shame them, urging imitation of his ways. He plans to visit soon to assess the true power of the community, questioning whether he should come with discipline or gentleness.

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Acts 18–19

Common Theme
God advances His gospel through obedient workers, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the bold proclamation of truth despite opposition. The message of Christ transforms hearts, confronts false systems, and demonstrates God’s authority in real ways.

Questions

• What does Apollos’ growth and correction reveal about humility and teachability in ministry?
• How does the response in Ephesus challenge assumptions about the cost and impact of true repentance?

God Shot
God reveals Himself as supremely powerful, confirming His word with unmistakable authority over spiritual forces and false beliefs. He is purposeful and sovereign, orchestrating open doors, protection, and transformation as His truth spreads.

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Deeper

Acts 18

Paul traveled from Athens to Corinth, where he met Aquila and Priscilla, fellow tentmakers who had recently left Rome. He preached in the synagogue every Sabbath, trying to persuade both Jews and Greeks about Jesus as the Christ. When faced with opposition, Paul decided to focus on the Gentiles. He stayed with Titius Justus, and many Corinthians, including Crispus, the synagogue ruler, believed and were baptized. God reassured Paul in a vision, promising protection and a significant following in the city. Later, when Paul was brought before Gallio, the proconsul, he dismissed the charges against Paul, stating they were matters of Jewish law. Afterward, Paul continued his journey, cutting his hair in Cenchreae due to a vow, and briefly stopped in Ephesus before returning to Antioch. Meanwhile, Apollos, an eloquent Jew from Alexandria, preached in Ephesus but needed further instruction from Priscilla and Aquila before successfully spreading the message of Jesus in Achaia.

Acts 19

In Ephesus, Paul encounters disciples who had only received John’s baptism and had not heard of the Holy Spirit. After explaining that John’s baptism was for repentance and pointing them to Jesus, they are baptized in His name. Paul lays hands on them, and they receive the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and prophesying. He then teaches in the synagogue for three months but, after facing opposition, moves to the hall of Tyrannus, where he continues for two years, spreading the word of the Lord throughout Asia.

Extraordinary miracles occur through Paul, including healing the sick with handkerchiefs. Some Jewish exorcists attempt to invoke Jesus’ name but are overpowered by an evil spirit, leading to fear and the renunciation of magic practices among believers. Many burn their magic books, significantly impacting the community.

As Paul plans to travel to Macedonia and Jerusalem, a silversmith named Demetrius stirs up a riot against him, claiming that Paul’s teachings threaten their trade and the worship of Artemis. The crowd, confused and enraged, drags Paul’s companions into a theater. The town clerk eventually calms the crowd, asserting that the men are not blasphemers and advising them to resolve their grievances through legal channels, leading to the assembly’s dismissal.

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1 Thessalonians 1–5 and 2 Thessalonians 1–3

Common Theme
Paul encourages a young but faithful church to remain steadfast in Christ, grow in holiness, and hold to a confident hope in the Lord’s return. He also corrects confusion about end times, urging perseverance, disciplined living, and reliance on God’s justice and faithfulness.

Questions

1. How does the hope of Christ’s return shape the way believers are meant to live each day?
2. What does faithful, disciplined, and loving Christian community look like in times of pressure and uncertainty?

God Shot
God is faithful to keep His promises, strengthen His people, and bring final justice and restoration at Christ’s return. He is a God of peace and truth, actively working to sanctify, protect, and establish His people according to His perfect plan.

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Deeper

1 Thessalonians 1

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy greet the Thessalonian church, expressing gratitude for their faith, love, and hope in Jesus Christ. They acknowledge the power of the gospel received by the Thessalonians, who became examples of faith despite affliction. Their faith has spread throughout Macedonia and Achaia, demonstrating their commitment to serving the true God and awaiting Jesus’ return.

1 Thessalonians 2

Paul expresses that his ministry to the Thessalonians was meaningful despite previous suffering in Philippi. He emphasizes that their message was sincere, aimed at pleasing God rather than seeking human approval. Paul and his companions worked diligently, not to burden the Thessalonians, and treated them with care, like a mother with her children. He recalls their holy conduct and encourages them to live worthy of God. The Thessalonians accepted the gospel as God’s true word and became imitators of other churches despite facing persecution. Paul longs to see them again, viewing them as his joy and glory in the presence of Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 3

Paul expresses his concern for the Thessalonians, sending Timothy to strengthen their faith amid afflictions. He feared that the tempter might have led them astray, jeopardizing their faith. Upon Timothy’s return with good news of their steadfastness and love, Paul feels comforted and joyful. He prays earnestly to see them again and hopes God will help them grow in love and holiness before the coming of Jesus.

1 Thessalonians 4

The text emphasizes living a life that pleases God, urging believers to follow the instructions given through Jesus, particularly regarding sanctification and abstaining from sexual immorality. It highlights the importance of self-control, holiness, and brotherly love, encouraging the community to love one another and work diligently. Additionally, it addresses the hope of resurrection, reassuring believers about those who have died, affirming that God will bring them back with Jesus at His return. The passage concludes by encouraging believers to comfort each other with this promise of eternal unity with the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5

The text discusses the Day of the Lord, emphasizing that it will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night, bringing sudden destruction to those unprepared. Believers are encouraged to remain vigilant, sober, and to embody faith, love, and hope for salvation. They are reminded to support one another, respect their leaders, and maintain peace. The passage includes final instructions to rejoice, pray, give thanks, and avoid evil. It concludes with a prayer for sanctification and a call for unity among believers, along with a blessing of grace from Jesus Christ.

2 Thessalonians 1

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy greet the Thessalonian church, wishing them grace and peace. They express gratitude for the growing faith and love among the believers, boasting about their steadfastness amid persecution. This endurance is seen as evidence of God’s righteous judgment, as He will repay afflictors and grant relief to the afflicted when Jesus is revealed. They pray for the Thessalonians to be made worthy of God’s calling, fulfilling good works by His power, glorifying Jesus.

2 Thessalonians 2

The text discusses the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ and warns against being misled about the timing of this event. It emphasizes that the day of the Lord will not arrive until the rebellion occurs and the "man of lawlessness" is revealed, who opposes God. This figure, empowered by Satan, will perform false signs and wonders, leading many to deception. The passage encourages believers to remain steadfast in their faith and traditions, expressing gratitude for their salvation through the Spirit and truth, and seeks God’s comfort and establishment in their good works.

2 Thessalonians 3

In this passage, Paul requests prayers for the spread of the Lord’s word and protection from evil men, affirming the Lord’s faithfulness. He warns against idleness, urging believers to follow his example of hard work and to avoid those who do not adhere to this principle. Paul emphasizes that those unwilling to work should not eat and encourages the community to support one another in doing good. He concludes with a benediction for peace and grace, signing the letter to confirm its authenticity.

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Acts 17

Common Theme
Paul proclaims the gospel in diverse cultural contexts, confronting idolatry and inviting people to seek the true, living God revealed in Jesus Christ. The chapter highlights the tension between human philosophies and God’s revealed truth.

Questions

• What distinguishes a heart that genuinely seeks truth from one that only wants affirmation?
• How does God’s sovereignty shape the way people search for meaning?

God Shot
God is the sovereign Creator who gives life and breath to all and is not confined to human temples or definitions. He stands near to every person, ruling history with purpose and calling all people to Himself.

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Deeper

Acts 17

Paul and Silas traveled to Thessalonica, where Paul preached in the synagogue for three Sabbaths, explaining that Jesus is the Christ. Some Jews and many devout Greeks believed, but jealous Jews incited a mob, attacking Jason’s house and accusing him of harboring Paul and Silas. The city authorities disturbed by the uproar took money from Jason as security before releasing him.

The brothers sent Paul and Silas to Berea, where the Jews were more receptive, eagerly examining the Scriptures. Many believed, but when Thessalonian Jews learned of their presence, they stirred up trouble again. Paul was sent to Athens, where he was troubled by the city’s idolatry. He preached in the synagogue and marketplace, engaging with philosophers who brought him to the Areopagus to discuss his teachings.

In his address, Paul acknowledged the Athenians’ religiosity and proclaimed the "unknown god" they worshiped. He explained that God does not dwell in temples and urged them to repent, as He will judge the world through a man raised from the dead. Reactions varied; some mocked, while others expressed interest, leading to a few, including Dionysius and Damaris, believing in his message.

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