1 Corinthians Bible Study FREE pdf – Chapter-by-Chapter

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The Book of 1 Corinthians details many important topics like Spiritual gifts, marriage, rights of ministers and the end times. It gives us a deeper understanding of the order in church, order in worship, order in resurrection and in the spiritual gifts.

*Disclaimer: As these are my personal notes, please only use them as reference points and study the Bible for yourself to get a deeper revelation of God’s word.

*Note: Bible verses below are taken from the ESV translation.

1 Corinthians Bible Study PDF overview

➡ Preview of the Book of 1 Corinthians FREE bible study worsheets. Download all the pages at the end of this post.

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1 Corinthians Bible Study

1 Corinthians Chapter 1

The Message of the Cross

As always, Paul starts off this letter with thanksgiving. He gives thanks to God for the church at Corinth for their faith in God and the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ.

However, he seems to find some division among the people as to who they follow. Since the disciples and apostles all teach the same Gospel message, it does not matter who teaches the message – Paul, Peter or Apollos (verse 12). What is important is that Christ is exalted.

Verse 17 is powerful, where Paul acknowledges that His commission was to preach the Good News of Jesus, not by his own ability but by the power of the Holy Spirit.

The following verses explain the importance of the power of the Cross, that is made known to the believers through the Spirit of God.

True Wisdom

God is the source of all wisdom and Paul explains the difference between human wisdom and the wisdom of God in verses 20-22. The message of the Cross is one of the main reasons why the Gospel message is rejected by both the Jews and the Gentiles (verse 23).

How do we recieve this wisdom from God? Answer: James 1:5

But for those who have Christ in them, He is the power and wisdom of God with us (verse 24). God is the source of all wisdom,

Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And he chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 1 Corinthians 1:27

This entire Chapter is dedicated to teachings on foolishness and wisdom, but ends with verse 31 that says if you want to boast about something, boast about the Lord.

1 Corinthians Chapter 2

Hidden Mystery

Paul digs deeper into human wisdom and the wisdom of God through his own journey (verses 1-5).

In verse 7, Paul explains how the mystery of God’s plan which was the death and resurrection of Jesus for our salvation, was kept hidden even before the world began.

He goes on to say,

But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. 1 Corinthians 2:8

We see this also explained in the book of Colossians.

The spiritual enemies are the rulers of this world, and had they known the plan of God, they would not have allowed Jesus to be crucified. Also study ➡ Colossians 2:14-15 (NLT)

Verses 12 onwards till the end of this Chapter, Paul explains why a believer in Christ has more spiritual wisdom than an unbeliever.

1 Corinthians Chapter 3

The Purpose

The importance of not being controlled by distractions and temptations of this world. (verse 3)

Anyone who teaches the message of Christ, are servants of God (verse 5), whether Paul or Apollos – one person plants and the other waters, but it is God who makes the seed grow (verse 7).

Verse 11 – No one can lay another foundation other than the foundation that was established through Jesus. This clearly explains why Jesus says in John 14:6, that He is the only way to the Father.

Heavenly Rewards

There are many passages that talk about the refiners fire and this is how God tests our works – verses 12-15.

When God tests each of our work, He rewards us based on the fruit.

Also study: James 1:12, Matthew 5 and 6, Luke 6:22-23, 2 John 1:8.

The Temple of God

We are the temple of God and the Holy Spirit dwells in the believers.

God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple. 1 Corinthians 3:17 (NLT)

1 Corinthians Chapter 4

The True Judge

From verse 1-5, Paul lays a foundation of the One true judge.

From verses 8-17, Paul explains the dedication of the Apostles in serving the Lord.

The Kingdom of God ➡ Is based on the power of God (verse 20)

1 Corinthians Chapter 5

Importance of Salvation

While Paul begins this Chapter talking about the worst type of sin, he then weaves in the importance of salvation, resulting in a shocking bible verse in 1 Corinthians 5:4-5.

Reading this passage may make you wonder where the all-loving and all-forgiving God is? But the verse goes on to say that this may then result in the man’s spirit might be saved. And this, right there, is who the all-loving and all-forgiving God really is. A God who values our souls more than our physical bodies which are only temporary.

This echoes what Jesus says in Matthew 10:28 – the importance of a man’s soul over his body.

Verse 6 describes this sin like yeast which spreads fast in a dough. Paul continues his teaching with a lesson on associating ourselves with those who are into sexual sin, greedy and idolators ( verses 9-13).

1 Corinthians Chapter 6

Verses 1-8 talk about matters of injustice between believers and unbelievers and how they are to be solved.

As we continue to read, we see the types of sins that go against the will of God (verses 9-10).

But God, in all His goodness has given us a way to salvation, which is through Christ Jesus (verse 11).

Discipline the Body

Apostle Paul never hesitates to talk about the dangers of living in sin, and the importance of disciplining our bodies.

Study ➡ As human beings we are made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).

In 1 Corinthians 3:16, we see Paul making two bold statements:

  1. God’s Spirit dwells within us (Also see 2 Timothy 1:14)
  2. We are God’s Temple

Paul reminds us of these statements again as we go through verses 18-20.

1 Corinthians Chapter 7

Marriage

Paul reminds the church at Corinth about the importance of marriage that Jesus preached in Mark 10:7-9.

Paul goes on to talk about the marital union between a husband and wife, which is where Satan often attacks (verses 5-7).

For those who aren’t married ➡ verses 8-9

For those who are married ➡ verses 10-11

For those who have married an unbeliever ➡ verses 12-16

Verses 25 until the end of this Chapter are words of wisdom about marriage, for those who are not yet married.

1 Corinthians Chapter 8

Words of Wisdom from the Bible:

Anyone who claims to know all the answers doesn’t really know very much. But the person who loves God is the one whom God recognizes. 1 Corinthians 8:2-3 (NLT)

Food offered to Idols

1 Corinthians 8:6, is basically the Gospel in a nutshell. Paul explains that there is only one God, the Father who created everything through His Son Jesus, who is our only source of eternal life.

Next, Paul talks about eating food offered to idols, which is not something to worry about, as the idols themselves are not real. But he leaves us with a word of caution in verses 9-13 (relating to setting an example to new believers).

1 Corinthians Chapter 9

Entitlement for God’s Servants

This Chapter begins with Paul clarifying to those who question his authority.

These verses are also good for those in ministry, who wonder if they have the right to gaining provision and abundance.

He explains this with examples in verses 7-10.

Paul gives more examples in verses 13-14.

Verses 22-24, teaches us that whatever we do, we do it all for Christ. Even though it may seem like a race, this race is one where we receive an eternal prize – one that does not fade away.

1 Corinthians Chapter 10

If anyone asks you, “Is Jesus mentioned in the Old Testament?”, these can be some of your answers:

  1. Jesus was the Spiritual Rock that travelled with the Israelites when they crossed the Red Sea (verse 4).
  2. Christ was also there when they were destroyed by the serpents (verse 9).

Verses 23-33 again pass on the same message that Paul relays in regards to food offered to idols.

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13

1 Corinthians Chapter 11

Chapter 11 talks about order in the church and in the Lord’s Supper.

Verses 2-12, talk about the relationship between, God, man and a woman. This also explains to us that we have a God who is orderly.

The Lord Supper ➡ Verse 17 onwards

What is the New Covenant? Study ➡ The New Covenant as prophesied in Jeremiah 31:31-34.

1 Corinthians Chapter 12

Gifts of the Spirit

It is the Holy Spirit who leads us to God (verse 3), and it is the Holy Spirit who also gives believers spiritual gifts (verse 4).

Gifts of the Spirit (verses 8-11):

  1. Wisdom
  2. Knowledge
  3. Faith
  4. Healing
  5. Miracles
  6. Prophecy
  7. Discerning Spirits
  8. Tongues
  9. Interpretation of Tongues

One Body of Christ

Paul gives a very simple yet profound explanation of what the body of Christ should look like.

He explains that just like we have one human body that is made up of different parts, so it is with the body of Christ – given unique roles (verse 28).

  1. Apostles
  2. Prophets
  3. Teachers
  4. Miracles
  5. Healing
  6. Tongues

Apart from all of this, Paul says that there is one gift that is higher than all. Love.

1 Corinthians Chapter 13

Verses 1-3 tell us that whether we are a prophet or have faith that can move mountains, without love we have nothing.

What is Love?

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant. 1 Corinthians 13:4

Verse 13, the greatest of all is love.

1 Corinthians Chapter 14

Now that we have read about Spiritual gifts and love, Paul tells us to earnestly pursue them.

Up until verse 25, Paul writes about the gift of tongues and the gift of prophecy and how these gifts help build up the church.

The book of 1 Corinthians is a book of order and principles. We first read about order in the church, principles of marriage and warning against idolatry.

Next, we read about order in worship.

Worship

Paul does not refrain from putting forward advice on orderly conduct. Whether it is teaching, singing or prophesying, Paul tells us to do it in an orderly manner.

Speaking in tongues ➡ Verses 27-28

Prophesying ➡ verse 29-32

Women Should Keep Silent

1 Corinthians 14:34 is one of the most debated scriptures in the bible, where it talks about women being silent in churches. It is important to read the entire bible and see how women were considered and what this statement actually means. Because if women should be silent, then what do these bible verses mean?

  1. Acts 2:17 ➡ The bible tells us that a woman can prophesy
  2. Judges 4:4-9 ➡ Deborah, a woman was a judge over Israel (who was also a prophetess)
  3. Luke 2:36 ➡ Anna was a prophetess
  4. Romans 16:1 ➡ Phoebe was a deacon in the Church in Cenchrea
  5. 2 John 1:1 ➡ Mentions an elect lady chosen by God
  6. Exodus 15:20 ➡ Moses and Aaron’s sister Miriam, was a prophetess who led the women in worship
  7. Acts 9:36 ➡ Tabitha was a disciple in Joppa who did many acts of charity

As a prophet, it is impossible to keep silent while prophesying and declaring scripture.

1 Corinthians Chapter 15

How to Explain the Gospel

This is one of the best passages to help preach the Gospel message to others (verses 3-10).

Importance of the Resurrection

Why is it important that Christ rose from the dead?

Answer: 1 Corinthians 15:14-19

Death through Adam and life through Christ, explained in verses 21-22.

Order of Resurrection

  1. Christ was first raised (verse 23)
  2. Next, all in Christ are raised
  3. The end will come (verse 24)
  4. Christ reigns (verse 25)
  5. Death is destroyed (verse 26)
  6. Christ has authority over all things (verse 27)
  7. God’s authority (verse 28)

Reasons why the resurrection is real: Answer ➡ Verses 30-34

How will the Resurrected Body Be?

Paul gives a good example of a seed and a plant to explain this: Verses 35-38

Verses 43-44:

Buried in brokenness ➡ raised in glory

Buried in weakness ➡ raised in strength

Buried as human bodies ➡ raised as spiritual bodies

The Glorified Body

Adam, the first man, was made from the dust of the earth, while Christ, the second man, came from heaven. 1 Corinthians 15:47 (NLT)

We are all first born with natural bodies and then raised as a spiritual body, because only the spiritual body can inherit heaven.

Death or Transformation

Verses 51 onwards till the end of this Chapter show us that after death, those in Christ will be transformed into a glorified body, making their way to eternal life through His grace.

1 Corinthians Chapter 16

The final instructions of Paul to the church.

Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (NLT)

Book of 1 Corinthians Bible Study PDF

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1 Corinthians Bible Study Free PDF

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