1 Corinthians 1:10-17
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
How does Paul appeal to the Corinthians in 1 Cor 1:10a, and why is it significant that he starts this way before dealing with their conflict? What can we learn from this as we approach division in the church?
The Corinthians were dividing themselves around favorite teachers and personalities (vv. 11–12). Why is it so easy for believers to attach themselves to certain preferences, loyalties, opinions, or “tribes”? What is ultimately behind division and quarreling within the church (James 4:1-4)?
Corinth was a culture obsessed with status, influence, image, and personal success. In what ways are Christians today tempted to let the values of the surrounding culture shape how they think and relate to others more than the example of Jesus?
Paul urgently pleads with the Corinthians to stop dividing and pursue unity (1 Cor 1:10–12). Why do you think Paul treats division in the church as such a serious issue? Why is reconciliation among believers so important to God?
What does it look like for Christians to be united in the same mind and thought? Is unity the same thing as uniformity (see 1 Cor 12:4-7 and 12-14)? Why or why not?
According to 1 Corinthians 3:1–4, what do jealousy, quarrels, and division reveal about a believer?
Paul ultimately points the Corinthians away from personalities and back to Christ crucified ( 1 Cor 1:13–17). According to Philippians 2:1–11, how does having the humble, self-sacrificing mind of Christ help protect the church from division and help preserve unity?
How do quarrels, jealousy, and divisions among Christians undermine the church’s witness and empty Christ’s message of its power (see John 13:34-35 and John 17:21)? How does biblical unity display the truth of the gospel to a lost world?
Are there any strained or damaged relationships in your life with another believer? What is one practical step you could take this week to pursue healing, humility, and reconciliation?
As you consider our church and any divisions or quarrels that might exist, is there anything you might be doing to contribute to those divisions or quarrels? What can you do this week to offer healing and reconciliation (Rom 12:18, 14:19, Col 3:12-14, Eph 4:29-32, 2 Cor 5:18-19)?
