Teaching Outlines of 1 Corinthians
By Gary DeLashmutt
How would you begin a letter to the most sinful church you knew? Paul's
answer may surprise you . . .
The message of biblical Christianity and the nature of its followers
are radically different from what you would probably choose if you were
designing a religion.
"Market-driven" Christian leaders have some serious problems,
according to Paul.
How do you view your spiritual resources? What's your assessment of
your spiritual progress? What do you expect in this life for following
Christ? Compare your answers with Paul's.
Why do so many churches disregard the Bible in this area? Paul reminds
us of this crucial feature of effective Christianity--its basis, benefits,
and limitations.
If we want lasting change, we have to follow behavioral symptoms back
to their ideological and values roots.
God has the answers to this issue which causes so much confusion and
pain among our friends. Do you know what it is and how to communicate
it?
In a culture riddled by marital breakdown, how can we maintain a high
view of marriage, and still deal graciously with divorced people?
When should we seek to change our situations, and when should we be
content with them? How should we approach making important changes in
our life-situations? Paul doesn't give us a rule-book--but he does supply
us with some key principles.
Perhaps the most important strategic principle for the church today,
yet easily misapplied.
Paul was intensely goal-oriented, yet lived under God's grace. Learn
how you can do the same.
Should Christian women wear veils today? Should Christian wives submit
to their husbands today? Part of the answer lies in distinguishing time-bound
cultural practices from timeless spiritual principles.
Certain attitudes and perspectives are crucial if we want to have meetings
that communicate the life of Christ.
Unless we understand the baptism, indwelling, and gifting by the Holy
Spirit, we will lead sub-biblical lives.
Is Christian fellowship more than a room across from the sanctuary,
or a formal greeting exchanged during a service? You bet it is!
Does a personal relationship with Jesus Christ mean that our experience
with him is the key to spiritual maturity? Where does his truth fit in
with our experience?
This profound passage has been rendered trite through so much use over
the centuries. Maybe this teaching will restore its challenge to you.
There is no reason for Christians to be polarized over this issue--if
we stay close to Paul's guidelines concerning its use.
What happens to Christianity when we alter the Bible's explanation of
Jesus' death and resurrection? How can we have non-negotiable beliefs
without judging other people?
What are they like? Who gets them? When do I get mine? What difference
should they make in how I live this life?
One Christian worker has said that the last part of the Christian to
convert is his wallet! Check out how Paul motivated the Corinthian Christians
to mature in this key area.
Is it possible to be spiritually militant and radically loving at the
same time? Paul thinks so.
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