Free group study handout
1 Corinthians 10: Group Study Handout
How to use: read 1 Corinthians 10 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
Paul recalls Israel's spiritual journey. They were under the cloud and passed through the sea (vv. 1-2).
Key verse
“No temptation has taken you except what is common to man. God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted above what you are able, but will with the temptation also make the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.”
1 Corinthians 10:13 (WEB)
Outline
- 1 Corinthians 10:1–5 Israel's Spiritual Journey
- 1 Corinthians 10:6–11 Warnings from Israel's Example
- 1 Corinthians 10:12–13 Caution Against Overconfidence
- 1 Corinthians 10:14–22 Avoiding Idolatry and Its Consequences
- 1 Corinthians 10:23–30 Guidance on Christian Freedom
- 1 Corinthians 10:31–33 Living for God's Glory
Discussion questions
- In v6, what do the Corinthians learn from the example of 'evil things' the Israelites desired?
- In v13, why does Paul say that 'God is faithful' in relation to temptations?
- The term 'idolatry' in v14: what specific practices might Paul be addressing among the Corinthians?
- In vv. 20-21, why does Paul warn against 'fellowship with demons' when discussing sacrifices?
- When have you felt tempted to seek your own good rather than your neighbor's in v24?
Go deeper
Passages that echo 1 Corinthians 10: Colossians 3, Philippians 2, 2 Peter 2.
Before next time: read 1 Corinthians 11.