To the Church of God in Corinth

This 1991 series, To the Church of God in Corinth, brings Paul’s powerful second letter to the Corinthian to life, showing how his words of comfort, correction, and encouragement still speak with force today. Corinth was a divided and struggling ecclesia, yet Paul’s inspired message reminded them that God’s strength is made perfect in weakness, that love is the true measure of discipleship, and that generosity and unity must mark the life of the ecclesia. These studies walk carefully through the letter’s themes, drawing out its timeless relevance for disciples facing trials, temptations, and the need to build fellowship on a firm spiritual foundation.

Class 1 – The God of All Comfort

The opening study reflects on God as the source of all consolation. Paul reminds believers that comfort flows from God through Christ, enabling us not only to endure suffering but also to share that same comfort with others. The message emphasizes how affliction can deepen faith and strengthen the bonds of fellowship.

Class 2 – A Letter from Christ to Corinth

This class explores Paul’s striking image of believers as a living letter of Christ. Instead of relying on human recommendation or outward credentials, the true witness of the ecclesia is written on hearts by the spirit. The lesson highlights authenticity, sincerity, and the call to reflect Christ in daily life.

Class 3 – Constrained by Love

Here Paul shows that the driving force of discipleship is love. The love of Christ compels his followers to live no longer for themselves but for him who died and rose again. This turning point in perspective challenges believers to reshape their priorities and to see themselves as part of God’s new creation.

Class 4 – The Fellowship of Christian Giving

Paul urges the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving, showing that generosity is not merely duty but an expression of fellowship in Christ. Using the example of Christ’s self-sacrifice, the apostle teaches that the abundance we receive is meant to be shared, building unity and caring for the household of faith.

Class 5 – Being Commended by the Lord

In this study, Paul contrasts self-promotion with divine approval. While others sought to build reputations on personality and outward show, Paul insisted that what matters is being commended by the Lord. His example points to humility, service, and a life that reflects the gospel rather than self-interest.

Class 6 – Strength Made Perfect in Weakness

The series concludes with Paul’s profound lesson on weakness and strength. Through his own trials and his “thorn in the flesh,” he testifies that God’s grace is sufficient and that power is made perfect in weakness. The class encourages believers to embrace dependence on God, finding strength not in themselves but in Christ alone.

This description has been generated by AI and lightly edited.