I. The Saint's Calling (vv.1-3)

1. "Sanctified"
2. "Called"
3. God's Grace & Peace

1. God given Grace Through Christ (v.4)
2. Enriched in Christ (vv.5-7a)

A. In Speech
B. In Knowledge
C. Christ's testimony that is confirmed in us.
D. Not lacking in any gift

- Eager anticipation of Christ's return

1. Confirmed blameless by Christ (v.8)
2. The faithfulness of God (v.9a)
3. Called into fellowship with Jesus Christ (v.9b)

I. The Way To Unity (v.10)

1. They were exhorted to:

A. Agree in Speech
B. Allow no divisions
C. Join together in one mind and opinion

1. The problem revealed (v.11)
2. The reason for the quarreling (vv.12-17a)

A. The insistence upon the exclusive loyalty to a preferred teacher
B. The issue of Baptism

- Stay focused on the message of Christ

I. Paul's Summary Statement About Wisdom (v.18)

1. The gospel to the lost is an object of ridicule (v.18a)
2. The gospel to the saved is a mighty transforming power (v.18b)

1. The illustration in Isaiah 29:14 (v.19)
2. The challenge (v.20)
3. Man's wisdom never brings anyone into a right relationship with God (v.21)
4. The two forms of wisdom man seeks (v.22)

A. Religious wisdom looks for outward signs (v.22a)
B. Intellectual wisdom looks for answers in philosophy and science (v.22b)

5. Man views God's wisdom as a stumbling block and as foolishness (v.23)

1. God's wisdom is demonstrated by its power to save (v.24)
2. God's wisdom is obviously superior to Man's since it rightly relates men to God (v.25)

I. Consider Your Calling (v.26)

1. It's A Divine Calling:
2. Not Many

A. Wise according to their human nature
B. Mighty according to their position of authority
C. Noble according to their noble birth right

1. God Does The Choosing (v.27a)
2. What God's Method Does to The Wisdom of Man

A.  God uses the foolishness things to shame the wise (v.27b)
B.  God uses the weak things to shame the strong (v.27c)
C.  God uses the useless & despised things to nullify the ways of
the world (v.28)

1. So No One Can Boast In Their Own Self (vv.29-30a)
2. Only Through Christ, Can We Know; (v.30b)

A. True Wisdom
B. Righteousness
C. Sanctification
D. Redemption

3. So Our Boasting Can Only Be In Christ (v.31)

I. Approach (vv.1-2)

1. Worldly Method (v.1)
2. Biblical Method (v.2)

1. Reverence (v.3)
2. Recognition (v.4)

A. Fleshly power (v.4a)
B. God's power (v.4b)

- To help people to trust in God, and not in the messenger God sent.

I. Who Can Understand The Eternal Mystery Of God? (v.6)

1. Only the mature
2. It is not based upon human wisdom

1. It is revealed through God's Word
2. It was foreordained

1. The proof of their inability to understand was in the crucifixion (v.8)
2. Man is incapable of understanding by fleshly means (v.9)

I.  It Comes Only By Divine Revelation (vv.10-11)

1. Only the Holy Spirit can reveal God's thoughts (v.10)
2. Man cannot on his own ever understand God's thoughts (v.11)

1. By the indwelling of the Holy Spirit (v.12)
2. By the verbally inspired Word of God (v.13)

1. The unregenerate person is incapable of understanding spiritual things (v.14)
2. Only the spiritual person is capable of understanding spiritual things (v.15)
3. Christians should have Christ's mental perspective (v.16)

I. Carnality Identified (vv.1-2)

1. Qualities Described (v.1)

A. Men of flesh (carnal)
B. Babes in Christ (immaturity)

2. Their Spiritual Diet (v.2)

1. Jealously & Strife (v.3)
2. Exclusive attitudes (v.4)

1. We are all at best, table waiters for God (v.5)
2. All believers are dependent upon God to bring spiritual growth (vv.6-7)
3. All believers will get exactly what they deserve (v.8)
4. The correct spiritual attitude (v.9)

I. Its Design (vv.10-11)

1. Its Master Builder (v.10)
2. Its Foundation (v.11)

1. Indestructible Materials: Gold, Silver, Precious stones

A. High quality materials
B. Represents faithfulness (response giving our best)

2. Destructible Materials: Wood, Hay, Stubble

A. Low quality materials
B. Represents unfaithfulness (response giving the least or leftovers)

1. Faithful Workers (vv.13-14)

A. Workmanship tested (v.13)
B. Rewards given for faithfulness (v.14)

2. Unfaithful Workers (vv.13, 15-17)

A. Workmanship Tested (v.13)
B. Rewards lost because of unfaithfulness (v.15)
C. Warning about unfaithfulness (vv.16-17)

I. Don't Be Deceived (vv.18-20)

1. By yourself (v.18a)
2. By worldly standards (vv.18b-20)

A. They are superficial (v.18b)
B. They are false (v.18c)
C. They are foolish (v.19)
D. They are useless (v.20)

1. Don't boast in men or human wisdom (v.21a)
2. Have a Christian world view (vv.21b-22)

A. Of your church leaders, teachers, and others (v.22a)
B. Of all that we possess (v.22b)

1. All believers belong to Christ (v.23a)

A. We were all a purchased possession of Christ (1 Cor.6:20)
B. Christ redeemed us at a tremendous price (1 Peter 1:18-19)

2. Christ belongs to God (v.23b)

- i.e., Jesus was entirely surrendered to the Father's will (John 8:29)

I. The Way We Should View Them (v.1)

1. As Servants
2. As Stewards

- One requirement: Trustworthy

1. By others (v.3a)
2. By our own selves (vv.3b-4b)
3. Let God do the judging (v.4c)
4. Don't pre-judge (v.5a)
5. Let it be according to God's timing, not our (v.5b)
6. God will reward His faithful servants (v.5c)

I. Inflated Egos (v.6)

1. Paul & Apollos' Example
2. The Corinthian Example

1. Who has given you the superior discriminating power to exalt one believer over another?
2. What do you have that God didn't give you?
3. If you acknowledge that you did receive blessings from God, then why do you act like you
didn't receive anything from God?

1. A Prideful Perspective:

- Rich, Royalty, Wise, Strong, Honorable

2. A Humble Perspective:

- Spectacles, fools, weak, and despised

1. Often mistreated

A. Hungry, thirsty, poorly clothed, and homeless.
B. Roughly treated, reviled, persecuted, slandered, and looked down on as the scum and the most worthless part of society (dregs).

2. Often Overworked

I. In Admonition (v.14-15)

1. The purpose of admonition (v.14a).
2. The force behind the admonition (a fatherly love, vv.14b-15).

1. He sets the example for others to follow (v.16)
2. He provides for their spiritual education (v.17)

1. He acknowledges the problem (v.18)
2. He accepts the responsibility to correct the problem (vv.19-20)
3. He only uses the proper amount of discipline that is required to correct the problem (v.21)

I. The Two Problems (vv.1-2)

1. Open immorality (v.1)
2. Indifference to sin (v.2)

1. Unconfessed public sin needs to be judged rightly (vv.3-5)

A. It needs to be publicly judged and condemned
B. It must be judged according to God's Word (also see Matt.18:15-20)
C. The unrepentant believer is to be excommunicated from the body

2. Unjudged sin infects the whole body (vv.6-8)

A. Unjudged sin is like leaven in bread
B. Like those who prepared for Passover (the feast of Unleavened Bread is included) they must first clean out the house of those food items that have leaven.

1. The church must not judge and condemn nonbelievers because God will judge them (vv.10, 12a, 13a).
2. Dealing with immoral Christian brothers (vv. 9, 11, 12b, 13b)

A. Do not associate with the (vv. 9, 11a)

1) Immoral
2) Covetous
3) Idolater
4) Reviler
5) The drunk
6) The swindler (extortioner)

B. Do not even eat with them (v.11b)
C. Remove them from the fellowship (v.13b)

I. Avoiding Public Courts (vv.1-3)

1. It is wrong for Church members to settle disputes in the public courts (v.1)
2. Christians are fully capable of settling their own disputes (vv.2-3)

A. Since we will one day judge the world (v.2)
B. Since we will one day judge the angels (v.3)

1. It is harmful to the cause of the gospel (vv.4-6)
2. All parties lose (vv.7-8)

1. The contrast between the Christian's future position and their present condition (vv.9-10).
2. The Sinful behavior of these Christians was inconsistent with their new position in Christ (v.11)

A. Washed
B. Sanctified
C. Justified

I. Its Liberty (v.12)

1. While all things are permitted, they may not be beneficial for us.
2. While all things are permitted, they should not dominate us.

1. Does not just exist just for the fulfillment of our physical needs
2. Should be used as a channel for the Lord's purpose.

1. It is designed to be for an eternal destiny (v.14)
2. It is designed to be a member of Christ's body (vv.15-18)

A. It is a visible manifestation of the believer's union with Christ (v.15a)
B. It should not be misused (vv.15b-17)
C. We are commanded to flee from sexually immoral behavior (v.18)

3. It is designed to be the special residence of the Holy Spirit during the church age (v.19).
4. It is designed to glorify God (v.20)

I. The Issue Addressed (v.1)

1. The question of whether a Christian should marry or remain single (v.1a)
2. Paul's preference (v.1b)

1. It aids in preventing sexual immorality (v.2)
2. It puts obligations upon the couple (v.3)
3. It recognizes the couple's interdependency upon each other (v.4)
4. It allows for temporary abstinence (v.5)

A. By mutual agreement.
B. For a spiritual purpose.
C. For a limited time.

1. It allows Christians to be free from fleshly distractions so they can devote themselves totally to serving God (vv.6-7a).
2. Celibacy is a gift from God (v.7b)
3. It is not for everyone (vv.8-9)

I. Christian Marriages and Divorce (vv.10-11)

1. Believers should obey Christ's teaching on the subject of  marriage and divorce (God's Word: John 1:1).

A. God ordained marriage (Gen.2:18).
B. Marriage is a covenant between a man and woman, together before God, to meet one another's needs for companionship (Prov.2:17; Mal.2:14).

1) The covenant can only be broken by death (Rom.7:1-3) or by violation (Matt.5:32).
2) Sin is involved in all divorce (Matt.19:7-8; Deut.24:1-4).

C. God hates divorce (Mal.2:16),

2. Divorce should not be the "norm" among believers (vv.10b, 11b)
3. The Christian's options after divorce (v.11a)

A. Remain single and celibate
B. Reconcile with the spouse
C. Remarriage to another believer may be an option if the divorce was because of repeated sexual immorality (see Matt.5:32 and 19:9).

1. The Believer's Conduct (vv.12-14, 16)

A. Believers' are to remain married if their spouse is willing to remain married (vv.12-13).
B. God uses the believer's witness to continually expose the unbelieving mate and family to the Gospel (vv.14, 16; also see 1 Pet.3:1-5).

2.  When Divorce does occur (v.15)

A. It should be the Unbeliever's choice (v.15a)
B. The believer is not to stop them from leaving (v.15b)
C. Paul implies that the believer is free to remarry (v.15c)

I. ... With Your Life (v.17)

1. God calls you where you are.
2. Serve Christ faithfully where you are.

1. Not with outward religion (vv.18-19a)
2. With inward faith (v.19b)

1. Serve Christ where you work regardless of the circumstances (vv.20-21a).
2. If you change jobs, serve Christ in your new job also (v.21b)
3. Job satisfaction is based upon your relationship with Christ (vv.22-23)

1. Keep God first in your life.
2. Serve Christ faithfully where you are.

I. ...Its Nature (v.25)

- Paul is providing practical advise, and not mandatory orders.

1. It will reduce the amount of pressure on the believer from a hostile world (vv.26-28).
2. It permits a better use of the believer's time (vv.29-31).
3. It alleviates a divided devotion for Christian service (vv.32-35).

1. View One: The Father of a daughter (Best View: KJV, NAS)

A. If his daughter is able to marry, then that is fine.
B. If his daughter is able to remain single, then that is fine.

2. View Two: The Prospective Bridegroom (NIV)

A. It is ok to marry if that is his desire
B. If he can control his desires, then it is ok if he remains single

1. The covenant of marriage should not be broken (v.39a).
2. Remarriage is permitted for widows to another Christian (v.39b).
3. It is better to remain unmarried if able (v.40).

I. Should Be Built On The Proper Foundation (vv.1-3)

1. Knowledge Alone

A. Produces a spiritual arrogance (v.1a)
B. Keeps the believer spiritually  immature (v.2)

2. Love

A. Builds up (v.1a)
B. Is the foundation of spiritual maturity (v.3)

1. The situation addressed (v.4a)

A. The believer's liberty in this matter (vv.4b-6)
B. The believer's conscience in this matter (v.7)
C. The believer's position in Christ is not based upon what we eat (v.8)

2. The Believer's Responsibility To Others (vv.9-12)

A. Our liberty should not be a stumbling block to other believers (vv.9-11)

1) We are to be careful not to cause other believers to stumble (v.9)
2) Our behavior should help to build up and not weaken other believers (v.10)
3) Our behavior should not impair the faith of other believers (v.11)

B. When our liberty causes Christians to stumble, then we have sinned (v.12)

1. Love willingly sets limits
2. The Believer should always limit their liberty in light of the needs of a fellow Christian.

I. Article One: A Minister Has The Right To Be Treated Fairly By Other Believers (vv.1-4)

1. The Church should recognize Their Pastor's calling and position by God (1-3).
2. The Church should recognize Their Pastor's basic rights to live as they do (v.4).

1. The financial support should be enough to support his whole family (v.5).
2. The financial support should be enough so that he isn't forced to do additional work (v.6).

1. Just As The Rest Of The World Is (v.7)

A. The Soldier
B. The Farmer (who tends a vineyard)
C. The Shepherd

2. As Directed By The Scriptures (vv.8-13)

A. The laborer has the right to share in the blessings (vv.8-12)
B. The Old Testament ministers under the Law were supported by the people (v.13)

3. As Directed By The Lord Jesus Christ (v.14)

1. When a believer willfully limits their rights they will receive their full reward at the Judgment Seat of Christ (vv.15-18)
2. A believer may willfully limit their rights so as not to be a stumbling block to the gospel (vv.19-23)

1. The minister has the right to try to win the race without interference (vv.24-25)
2. The minister's life should be purposely focused on Jesus Christ (vv.26-27)

I. Israel's Example (vv.1-10)

1. Their Five Liberties (1-4)

A. They ALL were "under the cloud" (v.1b)
B. They ALL passed through the sea (v.1c)
C. They were ALL "baptized unto Moses" (v.2)
D. They ALL ate spiritual food (v.3)
E. They ALL drank spiritual drink (v.4)

2. God's Displeasure (vv.5-6)
3. Their Misuse of Liberty (vv.7-10)

A. Idolatry (v.7)
B. Sexual Immorality (v.8)
C. Trying God (v.9)
D. Grumbling (v.10)

1. LEARN From Israel's Mistakes (v.11)
2. HEED Paul's Warning (v.12)
3. KNOW God's Promise (v.13)

I. A Word To The Wise (vv.14-15)

1. Christians are capable of idolatry (v.14a)
2. Christians are commanded to flee from idolatry (v.14b)
3. Christians should carefully consider Paul's warning (v.15)

1. First example: The Lord's Supper (vv.16-17)

A. The cup identifies the believer with Christ (v.16a)
B. The bread identifies the believer with Christ (v.16b)
C. The believer who participates with other believers is identified with Christ (v.17).

2. Second example: The Sacrificial System of Israel (v.18)

A. The individual worshiper was allowed to participate in the sacrifice that was made to the Lord (v.18a; Deut.12:17-18).
B. The individual who participated was identified as a companion of the Lord (v.18b)

3. Third example: Idolatrous Worship (vv.19-21)

A. The believer who participates in eating the meats sacrificed to demons becomes associated with demon worship (vv.19-20).
B. The believer who is involved in idolatry cannot fellowship with God also (v.21)

1. Who is stronger than the Lord?
2. The believer who participates in idolatry can expect God's discipline.

I. The Guiding Principles For Christian Liberties (vv.23-30)

1. Will It Bring Spiritual Benefit To Myself And Others? (v.23)
2. Is It In The Best Interest Of Others? (v.24)
3. Will It Cause Someone Else To Stumble? (vv.25-30)

A. Our personal convictions in gray areas should not be a stumbling block to non-believers (vv.25-27).
B. Our personal freedom in gray areas should not be a stumbling block to Christians (vv.28-30).

1. All That We Do Should Glorify The Lord (v.31).
2. Our Liberty Should Not Cause Any One To Needlessly Stumble (v.32).

1. Live In Such A Way To Benefit Others, That They Might Be Saved (10:33).
2. We Need To Follow Paul's Example Of Regulating Our Liberties By Love (11:1).

I. The Principle of God's Divine Order (vv. 2-3).

1. Asking the right questions (v.2)
2. The Principle set forth (v.3)

A. Christ is the authority of every a male Christian (v.3a).
B. A husband is the authority of his wife (v.3b).
C. God is the authority of Christ (v.3c).

1. The man who ministers with his head covered publicly dishonors Christ (v.4).
2. The woman who ministers with her head uncovered publicly dishonors her husband (vv.5-6).

A. This was a cultural issue of Paul's day where women wore veils as a part of their head covering.
B. Paul is addressing her ministry outside the assembly (1 Cor.14:34; 1 Tim.2:11; Titus 2:3-5).

1. Man glorifies God by ministering with his head uncovered (v.7).
2. Women bring glory to their husbands by ministering with their heads covered (vv.8-10).

A. God's order of creation demonstrates this truth (vv.8-9).
B. A woman's submissiveness it is a testimony to the angels of God's plan and purpose (v.10).

1. This is a key passage for understanding marriage.
2. Both husband and wife are dependant upon each other.

A. They are not two independent people, but interdependent people (vv.11-12a)
B. They are not independent from God, but interdependent upon Him also (v.12b)

1. Nature provides an example of head-coverings by the length of one's hair (vv.13-15).
2. Those who rebel against God's Divine Order bring discredit upon God (v.16).

I. Its Abuse (vv.17-22).

1. They came with divided hearts and loyalties (vv.17-19).
2. They came with selfish desires (vv.20-22).

1. The meaning of the bread (vv.23-24).
2. The meaning of the cup (v.25).
3. The reason for partaking of it (v.26)

1. Unworthy participation is sin (v.27).
2. We are to examine our hearts before the Lord (v.28).
3. The Lord disciplines those who participate in an unworthy manner (vv.29-32).

1. It should be done in unity (v.33).
2. It should be done with a right heart (v.34).

I. Understanding Spiritual Gifts (vv.1-3).

1. Christians should not be spiritually ignorant (vv.1-2)

A. Understand the work of the Holy Spirit in relation to His gifts (v.1)
B. Understand that there are counterfeit spirits at work also (v.2)

2. Judging the nature and use of gifts (v.3)

A. False gifts condemn Christ's nature, character, and work (v.3a)
B. True gifts affirm the Lordship of Christ both by word and deed (v.3b).

1. There are a variety of gifts, but one Holy Spirit (v.4)
2. There are a variety of ministries, but one Lord (v.5)
3. There are a variety of effects, but one God (v.6)

1. Spiritual gifts are not for self gratification
2. Spiritual gifts are for the edification of the local church body.

1. Word of wisdom (v.8a).
2. Word of knowledge (v.8b).
3. Faith (v.9a)
4. Gifts of healings (v.9b).
5. Working of miracles (v10a).
6. Prophecy (v.10b).
7. Discernment of spirits (v.10c).
8. Tongues (v.10d).
9. Interpretation of tongues (v.10d).

1. The Holy Spirit energizes and makes effective spiritual gifts.
2. The Holy Spirit sovereignly apportions spiritual gifts according to His will and purpose.

I. One Body United With Christ (vv.12-14).

1. Many members, but only one body (vv.12, 14).
2. Believers are united together with Christ through the baptism of the Holy Spirit (v.13).

1. Diversity does not imply a lesser value (vv.15-17).
2. Diversity is apart of God's Sovereign plan (v.18-19).

1. Diverse gifts are needed for a unified body (v.20).
2. Diverse gifts are given to create interdependency within the body (vv.21-26).

A. No gift is to small or of lesser value (vv.21-22).
B. The interdependency of gifts equalizes the dignity of each member of the body (vv.23-24).
C. The interdependency of gifts unites the body as one in both good and bad times (vv.25-26).

3. Diverse gifts are given according to God's design (vv.27-28).
4. Diversity not singleness (vv.29-30).

1. Three possible translations of this verse (v.31a)

A. First: as it appears here, "earnestly desire..."

- They should earnestly desire to have in their midst a good selection of gifts that edify.

B. Second: "you should strive after..."

- They should earnestly desire to have better gifts themselves.

C. Third: "But you are striving after..."

1) They have a problem because they earnestly desire other or better gifts; in other words they were not being content with the gifts that God had given them.
2) This translation is probably the best view because of the fact that spiritual gifts are  sovereignly given by God according to His purpose and will (vv.11, 18, 24, 28).

2. Paul is about to show them something that is more important than spiritual gifts; love (v.31b)

I. It Is The Main Ingredient (vv.1-3)

1. The gift of tongues without love is useless (v.1)
2. Other spiritual gifts without love are useless (v.2)
3. Sacrificial acts without love are useless (v.3)

1. It helps us to patiently endure and respond to others (v.4a)

A. Patience
B. Kindness

2. It helps us to rise above our selfish desires and weaknesses (vv.4b-6)

A. Love conquers jealousy, pride, and arrogance (v.4b)
B. Love helps us to control our behavior and thoughts (v.5)
C. Love helps us to rejoice in the right ways (v.6)

3. It helps us in all areas of our walk (v.7)

A. It helps us to bear up under every kind of situation.
B. It helps us to believe the best about others.
C. It helps us to always hope for the best and never to lose heart.
D. It helps us to remain steady against the attacks of our enemy.

1. It's imperishable unlike some spiritual gifts (vv.8-12)
2. It's the superior spiritual virtue (v.13)

I. It Should Be Motivated By Agape-Love (v.1)

1. A. Run after agape-love first.
2. Set your heart on spiritual matters for the whole church.
3. The gift of prophecy is of the greatest value to a church.

A. The gift of prophecy was the supernatural ability to speak forth direct revelation from God both in foretelling the future and forth telling His message for the present (Acts 11:27-28; 13:1; 15:32; 21:8-11).
B. We must kept in mind that the early church did not have the completed Word of God like we do today, so the gift of prophecy was very important.

1. Tongues without interpretation doesn't benefit other believers (v.2)

A. The gift of tongues is the supernatural ability to receive and communicate revelation from God in a foreign language, and is unknown to the speaker.
B. The gift of tongues always involved foreign language, according to its original use in Acts 2:4-11, where "Tongues (glossa)" are used in conjunction with "language (dialektos - the language of a nation or region)."
C. Twentieth century glosslalia cannot be classified as a language when subjected to the tests of linguistic analysis.

2. The gift of prophecy has immediate and beneficial effects (v.3)

A. Edification: build up or construct.
B. Exhortation: called alongside (counseling), encourage.
C. Consolation: Cheer up, to comfort.

3. The gift of prophecy edifies the whole body (v.4)

A. Tongues (without interpretation) is only profitable to the person who is speaking.
B. Prophecy is profitable to the whole church body.

1. Paul wanted all of the believers in Corinth to be spiritually minded and dedicated, and not divided because of their pride and misuse of spiritual gifts.
2. Prophecy was a superior gift because of the immediate effect of God's Word being given out.
3. Tongues could assume the same quality as prophecy if it could be interpreted immediately.

I. It Is Limited By Its Ability To Be Understood By Others (vv.6-13).

1. The use of the gift of tongues without understanding is useless (v.6).
2. Paul's three supporting illustrations (vv.7-11).

A. Illustrated by music (v.7).

- Musical sounds are worthless without distinct and meaningful tones.

B. Illustrated by a bugle call in battle (vv.8-9).

1) A bugle call in a battle that cannot be recognized is worthless (v.8)
2) Likewise, tongues without interpretation is like a bunch of meaningless notes (v.9).

C. Illustrated by human languages (vv.10-11)

1) All human languages have meaning (v.10).
2) When a person cannot understand what is being communicated then it has no benefit (v.11).

3. The importance of interpretation to the gift of tongues (vv.12-13).

A. The gift of tongues is only useful and beneficial when it can be understood by everyone (v.12)
B. The person who is speaking or praying in tongues should pray for interpretation (v.13).

1. Praying in tongues should do more than make that person feel good  (vv.14-15).

A. Praying in tongues without understanding only benefits that person's ego (v.14).
B. Prayer is to be more than a "feel-good" experience, but it should also be meaningful (v.15).

2. Praying in tongues excludes those who can't understand (vv.16-17).

A. While the one who is praying in tongues may feel good about it, it doesn't allow others to participate in what is being prayed (v.16).
B. Praying in tongues, without interpretation, does not help other Christians to grow and mature in their walk with the Lord (v.17).

1. Paul acknowledges the gift of tongues (v.18).
2. Paul also acknowledges that it is better to limit the use of tongues in church (v.19).

I. Its  A Revealer Of Spiritual Maturity (v.20).

1. The spiritual immaturity of believers are exposed when they misuse their spiritual gifts  (v.20a).

A. The Corinthians' misuse of tongues showed that they had not grown in their faith.
B. Their misuse led to a improper behavior towards others.

2. Christians are to be mature in their thinking when it comes to spiritual gifts (v.20b).

A. The exercise of spiritual gifts should be based only upon a biblical understanding.
B. Spiritual maturity only occurs when we line-up our way of thinking with God's Word.

1. The gift of tongues was given as a sign (vv.21-22a).

A. It was a sign of God's Judgment for Israel's  rejection of Him (v.21; Isaiah 28:1-14).
B. It was a sign of God's validation to the unbelieving nation of Israel (v.22a).

2. The gift of prophecy is a sign to believers, and not to the unbelieving nation of Israel (v.22b).
3. Summary: "Tongues (languages) were given as a sign to provoke the Jews to consider the truth of the Christian message." (Charles C. Ryrie)

1. The ungoverned use of tongues in church only creates confusion (v.23).

A. The misuse of the gift of tongues creates confusion among both the saved and the lost.
B. A message spoken in tongues can never convict the heart of a lost sinner.

2. The superiority of prophecy over tongues (vv.24-25).

A. Unlike tongues, the gift of prophecy brings an immediate response from both believers and non-believers (v.24).
B. Unlike tongues, the gift of prophecy can lead someone to accept Christ as their Savior (v.25).

I. Guidelines For Using Spiritual Gifts (vv.27-33).

1. The use of tongues (vv.27-28).

A. Only two or three persons can speak at any church service (v.27a)
B. They are to speak in turn (v.27b).
C. Anything that is spoken in a tongue has to be interpreted (v.27c).
D. Tongues should not be used in the church without interpretation (v.28).

2. The use of prophecy (vv.29-33).

A. Only two or three prophets were to speak at any church service (v.29a).
B. All prophecy and prophets are to held accountable for what they speak (vv.29b; 32-33).
C. They are to speak in turn (vv.30-31).

1. Women are to abstain from the exercise of their speaking gifts at church (v.34).
2. Women are to consult their husbands if they had questions (v.35).
3. Women are to submit to God's truth by conforming to its standards and conduct (v.36).

1. Everything should be done to build-up the church body (v.26).
2. No one is above God's Word (vv.37-38).
3. Spiritual gifts are to be properly exercised (v.39).
4. Everything should be done in a proper and orderly manner (v.40).

I.  Its Message (vv.1-4)

1. It is a living faith (vv.1-2).

A. There is no surer foundation on which to stand (v.1).
B. There is no salvation apart from the gospel of Christ (v.2)

2. It is the basis of the Christian faith (vv.3-4)

A. Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures (v.3)
B. He was buried (v.4a).
C. He was raised on the 3rd day according to the Scriptures (v.4b).

1. As confirmed by many eye witnesses (vv.5-8)

A. Cephas (Peter) and the Twelve (v.5).
B. 500 witnesses at one time (v.6).
C. James and all the apostles (v.7).
D. Paul (v.8).

2. As confirmed by its life changing effects on others (vv.9-10)

A. Paul was radically changed after his encounter with the risen Christ (v.9).
B. Paul was compelled to serve his risen Savior (v.10).

1. There may be many believers, but there is only one Gospel (v.11a).
2. The Gospel must be preached (v.11b).

I. Denials Of A Resurrectionless Faith (v.12)

1. The Bible clearly teaches the truth of the Resurrection (v.12a).
2. Those who deny the basic truth of the Resurrection (v.12b).

1. The Theological Consequences (vv.13-16).

A. The Resurrection of Christ would be a lie (v.13).
B. Preaching the Gospel would be without results or purpose (v.14a).
C. Our faith in Christ would be useless (v.14b).
D. Those who have preached the Gospel would be a bunch of charlatans for propagating such a lie (vv.15-16).

2. The Personal Consequences (vv.17-19).

A. Our salvation would be worthless (v.17a).
B. We are still lost in our sins (v.17b).
C. All the deceased Christians have perished (v.18).
D. Christians are the most pitiable people in this world because they foolishly believe a lie (v.19).

1. Paul emphatically declares the Resurrection of  Christ.
2. Since our faith is based upon the truth of the Resurrection then the reverse is true of all the things listed above.

I. It Is Based On Christ (v.20).

1. On the certainty of Christ's resurrection (v.20a).
2. On the fact that Christ is the "first fruits" of the resurrection (v.20b).

1. Through one man sin and death came to mankind (vv.21a, 22a).
2. Through one man life and the resurrection came to mankind (vv.21b, 22b).

1. God has set the order of the resurrection (vv.23-24a).

A. First: Christ (v.23b).
B. Second: Believers (v.23c)

1) Those who have died in Christ and those who are alive at the rapture (1 Thess.4:13-18)
2) The Tribulation Saints just prior to the Millennial Kingdom (Rev.20:4).
3) The Old Testament Saints just prior to the Millennial Kingdom (Dan.12:1-2).

C. Third: All non-believers after the Millennial Kingdom (v.24a; Rev.20:5-6, 11-15).

2. The results of the resurrection (vv.24b-28).

A. Christ will abolish all rule, authority, and power of man and Satan (vv.24b-25).
B. Christ will abolish death and its effects (v.26).
C. All things will be under the subjection of the Godhead (vv.27-28).

1) God has decreed that all things shall be put under the subjection of Christ (v.27; Psa.8:6).
2) Christ himself will continue to be subject to His Father's will and God will be glorified (v.28).

I. The Useless Practice Of Baptism (v.29).

1. This is one of the most difficult and obscure verses in the Bible.

A. There have been up to 200 explanations given for this one verse.
B. Tertullian tells of some heretics who took it to mean baptized in the place of dead people (unsaved) in order to save them.
C. Paul may be simply holding up the teaching of those who denied the resurrection and taught the baptism for the dead.
D. No where else in the Bible does it teach any kind of baptism for the dead.

2. Paul's point is if there is no resurrection then why baptize at all.

1. Daily placing yourself in danger for something that is not true (vv.30-31).
2. Daily subjecting yourself to threats and poor treatment for something that is not true (v.32a).
3. Daily denying yourself the pleasures of life for something that is not true (v.32b).

1. It corrupts the truth (v.33).
2. It is ignorant of the truth (v.34b).
3. It brings shame on the godly (v.34c).

1. By sobering up to the truth again.
2. Stop sinning by following after false teachers.

I. Skeptical Questions (v.35).

1. How can a deceased body be physically resurrected (v.35a)
2. What kind of resurrected body will we have (v.35b).

1. The first answer to "How" is illustrated in the plant world (vv.36-38).

A. A new life comes forth from death (v.36).
B. A new body comes forth from the death of the old body (v.37).
C. God is the giver of life and bodies (v.38).

2. The second answer to "What" is illustrated in God's creation (vv.39-49).

A. The believer's resurrected body will be well suited for eternity (vv.39-44).

1) It will be different from our present body (vv.39-41)
2) It will be eternal, perfect, powerful, and governed by the Spirit (vv.42-44)

B. The believer's resurrected body will reflect the image of Christ (vv.45-49).

1) Our present body is in the image of the first Adam.
2) Our resurrected body will be in the image of the last Adam (Jesus Christ).

I. The Reason For It (v.50).

1. The natural body can not enter into the eternal state (v.50a)
2. Sinful flesh must be transformed to enter into God's eternal kingdom (v.50b).

1. The revealing of the rapture of believers (vv.51-53)

A. Both the dead and living in Christ will be raptured and resurrected (v.51b)
B. It will happen suddenly and quickly (v.52a)
C. All Christians will be changed for eternity (vv.52b-53)

2. Our victory over death (vv.54-57)

A. The resurrected body will no longer be subject to death (vv.54-56).

1) Death will end forever as foretold in God's Word (Isa.25:8; v.54b).
2) Death will never again inflict its pain on our lives (Hos.13:14; v.55).
3) Death will be powerless over us (v.56)

B. Only through Christ can someone experience victory over death (v.57).

1. It should make us "Steadfast" in our thinking and beliefs (v.58a)
2. It should make us "Immovable" in our walk (v.58b).
3. It should make us to "Always abound" (exceeding, to be over and above, overflow) in our service to the Lord (v.58c)..
4. It should make us realize that our "toiling" for the Lord has eternal value (v.58d).

I. 1st Principle: Giving Is A Ministry (v.1)

1. The primary purpose of giving in the New Testament is to minister to the saints.

A. In this passage several churches gave to help the Christians in Jerusalem who had been persecuted and were in need (1 Cor. 16:1; Rom.15:26; 2 Cor.8:1-5).
B. We are to give to help other Christians in need (1 John 3:16-18).
C. We are to give to help support missions and pastors (1 Cor.9:1-14; 1 Tim.5:17-19).
D. We are also called to look after our widows and orphans (James 1:27).

2. We are to do good to all men as we are able, but especially to Christians (Gal.6:10)

1. Paul tells them to give the first day of the week (Sunday).

A. This was the day that the early church met to worship.
B. Their coming together to worship was to include the regular giving of money.

2. Paul is emphasizing the consistency of giving here.

1. Every believer is expected to give.

A. Paul expected each member who had an income to share in the offering.
B. This would allow them to also participate in the blessings of giving.

1. Every believer was to give according to how God had blessed them.

A. None of the New Testament writers ever gave a set percentage that was to be given.
B. In the Old Testament, the Jews were required to give around 23 %. (est. yearly avg.).

1) They were to give 10 % to support the priest (Lev.27:30; Num.18:21).
2) They were to give another 10 % to support the national feasts and holidays (Deut. 14:22-27).
3) They were to give another 10 % every third year to support the Levite, the alien, the orphan, and the widow (Deut.14:28-29).
4) There tithes were never freewill, but rather were required to support a theocratic government system.

C. Pre-law giving

1) Abraham gave 10 % to Melchizedek (Gen.14:18-20)
2) Jacob promised to give 10 % of all that he had if God would protect him and make him prosper (Gen. 28:20-22).
3) Both Abraham's and Jacob's tithes were voluntary and apparently singular, and there is no indication in the Bible that anyone before Moses regularly gave 10 %.

2. A New Testament believer is to give voluntarily and from the heart (2 Cor.9:6-8).

A. Christian giving should be based upon our ability to give.
B. Christian giving should be based upon our love for the Lord.

1. Believers who give have the right to expect that their money be handled correctly.
2. Those appointed to handle the church's finances should be accountable and trustworthy.

I. Character Traits For Entering The Door Of Ministry (vv.6-9).

1. Foresight and planning (v.5).

A. Ministry requires foresight or vision.
B. Ministry requires good planning.

2. Flexibility (v.6)

- While ministry requires planning on our part, we must be willing to change our plans when God directs.

3. Commitment (vv.7-8).

A. Paul was committed to spending all the time that was required to minister before moving on.
B. Any ministry worth having requires a total commitment of time and effort.

4. Sensitivity to God's direction  (v.9a).

- When God opens a door of opportunity for ministry we must be willing to act.

5. Perseverance (v.9b).

A. Any God centered ministry WILL experience adversity.
B. Those who serve must be prepared face this adversity and not buckle.

1. Treat those who serve appropriately (vv.10-11).

A. We should not grieve those who minister to us (v.10).
B. Those who serve are worthy of our honor and respect (v.11)

2. Be sensitive to God's direction in other servants' lives (v.12).

A. The ministry of others is not based upon our own personal desires.
B. We must allow God to do the convicting and directing of His servants.

I. Obey Orders (vv.13-14)

1. Stay alert (v.13a)
2. Stand firm in the faith (v.13b)
3. Be mature (v.13c).
4. Be spiritually strong (v.13d).
5. Do everything in love (v.14).

1. The example of the household of Stephanas (vv.15-16).
2. The example of Fortunatus and Achaicus (vv.17-18).
3. The example of others (vv.19-20).

1. Paul's warning (vv.21-22).
2.  Paul's example (vv.23-24).