10-16-2025 PART 2: Called Yet Still Growing Beginning the Journey Through Corinthians

Section 1
The study opens with an invitation into the richness of 1 Corinthians—a book layered with wisdom, correction, and deep spiritual instruction. Unlike Hebrews, this epistle carries both doctrinal and practical weight that touches every part of church life. The teaching approach is not bound to any one commentary or academic structure. Instead, it blends insight from various sources, seasoned with personal experience and Holy Spirit illumination. The message is clear: believers are encouraged to listen for what blesses them, to test it before the Lord, and to walk away strengthened in faith. The goal is not to impress with scholarship but to draw hearts closer to Jesus.

Section 2
Paul’s letter addresses a divided church where pride and denominational loyalty had created fractures among believers. “I am of Paul,” “I am of Apollos,” and “I am of Cephas” were the rallying cries of human factions. This spirit of “I-I-I” pride still plagues modern Christianity when believers identify more with labels than with Christ Himself. The true mark of maturity is to say, “I belong to the body of Christ, and I love my brothers and sisters who have received His grace.” Paul’s message dismantles denominational isolation and reminds us that unity is not sameness—it’s love in diversity under one Lord. Division among believers is not holiness; it’s disobedience.

Section 3
Paul begins his introduction by identifying himself as “called to be an apostle.” Yet the humility in his tone reveals a man still aware of his past and dependent on God’s grace. He knows his authority comes from the Lord, but he also recognizes that he remains a work in progress. This balance between position and process defines the Christian journey. Every believer is called to be a reflection of Jesus Christ, though none of us have perfected that reflection. Paul’s transparency reminds us that even spiritual giants keep growing. The Corinthians needed to hear this—and so do we: God’s call is settled, but our walk is still unfolding.