1 Corinthians 1: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 1 Corinthians 1 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul greets the assembly in Corinth and offers thanks for the grace given to them in Christ Jesus (vv. 1-4). He affirms that they have been enriched in speech and knowledge, and he assures them of God’s faithfulness (vv.

Key verse

“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are dying, but to us who are saved it is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 1:18 (WEB)

Outline

1 Corinthians 1:1–3 Greeting and Thanksgiving
1 Corinthians 1:4–9 Encouragement and Affirmation
1 Corinthians 1:10–17 Call for Unity
1 Corinthians 1:18–25 Wisdom and the Cross
1 Corinthians 1:26–31 God's Choosing

Discussion questions

In v10, what does Paul urge the brothers to do regarding divisions?
What does Paul thank God for in v4 about the Corinthians?
The phrase 'the word of the cross' in v18: how is it viewed by those who are perishing?
In v27, why does Paul say God chose the 'foolish things' of the world?
When have you found yourself aligning with a leader instead of focusing on Christ?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Corinthians 1: 1 Corinthians 2, Romans 8, Philippians 1.

Before next time: read 1 Corinthians 2.