Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany 1 Corinthians 2:1-16

Ancient Lens

What can we learn from the historical context?

Relevant Background

1. The Purpose of Paul’s Letter

Recall that 1 Corinthians is written to a local church with the purpose of reproof and correction. Paul loves the believers in Corinth, but they have divided themselves (1:10-11). They need to be led to become spiritual people, mature in Christ (3:1). Although Paul addresses several matters in his letter, such as arrogance and ignorance, the portion of the book where our passage is located focuses on the subject of unity around the Gospel message. The recipients of the letter are indeed Christian, but they are losing sight of the center of their faith (

1. Where in your life do you find yourself emphasizing cultural respectability over faithful proclamation? What could it look like to step back and trust the simplicity of Christ?

2. Can you remember a moment when God revealed something to you that you did not reason your way into, but received through trust, obedience, or surrender?

3. Where in your life do you need to trust God even if you don’t yet understand…