LEADER’S STUDY GUIDE 4.25.2021
1 Corinthians 16
Chapter 16 In a Nutshell
Paul wrapped up this letter to the Corinthians by touching on several practical matters. He also expressed his hopes for the Corinthians’ continuing faithfulness to Christ. This last chapter is divided into three main parts: instructions on collections, general exhortations, and final greetings.[1]
Discussion 1: Read Chapter 16
- Terry began his sermon by first reflecting on Paul’s life and all that he had been through. How was Paul’s life different from the surrounding culture’s idea of what was important?
- Terry also encouraged us to let the “normal, day-to-day” nature of this chapter remind us that the Bible is God’s word given to us through real people in real circumstances. How does this help you to better understand the chapter? Explain your answer.
- Read verses 1-3. Why was there a collection taken? How is this similar to the local church today acting globally?
- Read verses 15-18. What does Paul point out here as worthy of imitation and celebration?
- Terry said that “Culture is set by what is communicated, demonstrated, and celebrated by its leaders.” What did he mean by this? How have you seen this demonstrated at River?
- What did Jesus have to say about serving?
- True or false: People who live with hearts to serve are without exception happier people. Explain your answer.
- What Jesus thought was impressive is exactly what we want to be impressed with ourselves. Those things were: service, sacrifice, obedience, faithfulness, gentleness, kindness, love (especially love!). What can we do to grow in these areas?
- Read verses 13-14. “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love.”
- What did Paul mean by being “on guard?”
- How does “standing firm in the faith” affect your daily life?
- “Be men of courage,” is not saying act like men as in “males” but as in adults—grow up, everyone one of you, men and women—act like mature Christians. Does this challenge you? If so, how?
- “Be strong” is similar to Paul telling Timothy to, “Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.” (2 Tim. 2:2) What does it look like to live this out?
- “Do everything in love.” This is not hyperbole or an exaggeration, it is the one legitimate goal, the target of the mature Christian. How do we make sure we’re maturing? Are there any tactics we may need to change? If so, what are they, and how can we help?
Application:
We have this opportunity to embrace and thrive in what is eternal and powerful…now. We can live chasing Christ not the illusions that many around us pursue.
But he (Jesus) said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (2 Cor. 12:9)
[1] Pratt, R. L., Jr. (2000). I & II Corinthians (Vol. 7, p. 289). Nashville, TN: Broadman & Holman Publishers.