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Introduction:
This is a church with many significant and serious
problems; and we wonder would we even attend that congregation or
be a part of that church. When
the church was only three years old, Paul wrote his first letter
about those problems and to encourage them and to instruct them as
to how to overcome these problems.
We find out in Paul’s second letter that the church
responds well to Paul’s first letter, however, not everybody is
receptive to Paul’s writings. Discussion: I.
Problems of division & factions (1
Cor. 1-4)
Sources of problem:
Suggested Solutions: A.
1:10-31 Revere revelation only B.
2:1-5 Men only messengers C.
3:5-10,
18-23 No new information D.
4:1-7,
18 Wary of the wise… II.
Problems with immorality (1
Cor. 5-6)
Sources of problem: Suggested Solutions: A.
5:1-2,
6 Mourn over and separtate from sin. III.
Problems with idolatry (1
Cor. 8)
Sources of problem: Suggested Solutions: A.
8:1-3,
7-13 Love edifies…
Edify
your brother!
Note:
Paul’s boasting & humiliation (9:15-23,
27) IV.
Problems with temptation (1
Cor. 10)
Sources of problem: Suggested Solutions: A.
Still, the common problem:
Idolatry B.
10:12-13 No excuses for own failings…confess. C.
10:23-24,
29, 31-33
Be selfless – not self seeking. V.
Problems with the Lord’s supper (1
Cor. 11)
Sources of problem: Suggested Solutions: A.
11:18-19
– divisions Focus on the Lord B.
11:21-22
– haughty Care for each other C.
11:28
– self-satisfied VI.
Problems with spiritual gifts/tongues (1
Cor. 12-14)
Sources of problem: Suggested Solutions: A.
12:15-37 Understand membership. B.
13:1-3,
4-5 Fulfill the Lord’s purpose. C.
14:2,
20 D.
14:30-35 VII.
Pride could contribute to other problems: A.
Desecrating our bodies & suing brother (ch.6) B.
Marriage question (ch.7) C.
Women’s role & covering (ch.11) D.
Questioning the resurrection (ch.15) E.
Hindrances to benevolence (ch.16) VIII.
2 Corinthians A.
Comfort & encourage church after its repentance and
suffering in the gospel. B.
Collection for the needy saints in Judea C.
Paul must defend his apostleship because of persistent
accusers and enemies.
We can change & do better! Conclusion: A.
The solution is found in: 1.
Humility 2.
In selfless service 3.
With a spiritual focus 4.
Commitment to revelation We can change & do better!
Glory
to God in the church by Christ Jesus
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