Author: Paul

Corinth
The most important city in Greece
The capital of the Roman province Achaia
4th in size among the great cities of the Roman Empire
Located on an Isthmus
Strategically located with a gulf on both sides one leading to Asia and one to Italy
In 1881-1893 a 4 mile canal was finally cut across the Isthmus
Known for its commerce, culture (pottery, brass, pillars) and corruption
It was inhabited by Romans, Greeks, Jews
It hosted the Isthmus games every two years
Headquarters for the worship of Venus and Aphrodite, the goddess of love
To “Corinthianize” meant to engage in prostitution
At her temple were kept 1000 female Hieroduli (consecrated prostitutes) which were free to all who visited the temple
The Pantheon or temple of All the Gods was located in Corinth

Paul first arrived in Corinth on his second missionary journey.

He met Aquila and Priscilla, and because they were all tent-makers he stayed with them.

He was in the city of Corinth for a year and half during which time he established the church.

Silas and Timothy join him after completing their ministry in Berea.

Paul spent much time in the synagogue reasoning with the local Jews.

Because of his witness the ruler of the Synagogue was converted and baptized by Paul.

The church was well established and gifted, but tempted by the worldly wisdom and the wickedness of the city.

Paul seemed to be often in contact with this church.

II Cor. 13:1 “This is the third time I am coming to you.”

There were other letters written by Paul to Corinth that have been lost to us.

I Cor. 5:9 “I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:”

The church ministered to Paul by sending men to encourage and aide him (I Cor. 16:17)

It is likely the three mentioned in this verse carried the letter back to the church.

Paul was in Ephesus when he wrote the letter.

The purpose of the letter was to answer several important questions about doctrine and practice, as well as rebuking them for their sins.

WORTHWHILE PURSUITS
I Cor. 15:53-58


THERFORE:
In light of the previously mentioned topics.
In light of our salvation vs. 1-4
In light of Christ resurrection vs. 20
In light of the anticipation of heaven vs. 49-50
In light of Christ’s victory vs. 53-57

BELOVED BROTHERN
Not a message just given to the unknown masses.
This was the message from the one that had started their church.
Perhaps the spiritual father of many.
It was a genuine statement of love.
Directed at those that had accepted Christ.

STAND STRONG
Steadfast – as a wrestler standing ones ground.
Firm in the faith
Committed to victory over sin
Unmoveable – Stronger concept like a statue

FRUITFUL LABORING
Excelling in our Christian Duties
This truth involves two areas
Living our Christian virtues
Reaching the Lost

OUR CONFIDENCE
a. Knowing it will be rewarded, in light of the resurrection.
b. Much of our energy is spent on things that will perish
c. That which is done for eternity is not in vain
d. That which is done for the Lord will have eternal reward.

Conclusion:
Don’t be weary in well doing.
Be faithful, hardworking, vocal, because all that we do for our Lord will be worth it.