1 | Contradictions and Paradoxes in Paul’s Corinthian Epistles
Introduction and Foundation (1:1–9)
The above podcast link is part of our Letter Series on the First Epistle to the Corinthians. A summary of the episode is provided below.
The first four chapters of this epistle weave a complex narrative of contradictions and paradoxes that serve as the foundation for the profound wisdom to come. These verses, ranging from 1:1 to 1:9, lay the groundwork for understanding the central themes of the epistles.
1:1–3 — Introduction
The opening lines of Corinthians are a clarion call to the centrality and Lordship of Jesus. In the first 10 verses alone, Jesus is referenced 10 times, leaving no room for any other emphasis, authority, or intention. Paul makes it clear from the start that anyone with a contrary agenda is put on notice.
Verse 1 underscores the collaborative nature of Paul’s work. He co-authors this letter with Sosthenes, emphasizing that his labor is not a solitary endeavor. His calling is not the result of personal ambition, but rather, it is “by the will of God.” Moreover, Paul partners with fellow servants, rejecting the notion of establishing his own personal brand.
Verse 2 further reinforces this inclusivity. Paul’s message is not reserved for a select group; it is intended for the entire assembly “of God.” God is not just the source but also the cause and purpose of the assembly. The assembly, Paul declares, is “sanctified in Christ,” highlighting that Christ is both the means and the end of the kingdom of God. They are “called to be saints,” a concept deeply rooted in Daniel 7:18, where the “holy ones of the Most High” inherit the kingdom forever. Sainthood, in this context, signifies membership in a holy community destined to partake in the righteous kingdom of God.
Verse 2 also emphasizes that this sainthood cannot be understood in isolation or through caste and class distinctions. The assembly is inclusive and holistic.
1:4–9 — Foundation
These verses provide insight into the status of the Corinthian church:
- Verse 4 highlights that they have been converted by grace. The assembly has not achieved this on their own; they have received the knowledge of the Gospel of Christ, leading to their conversion and salvation.
- Verses 5–6 underscore that they have been gifted by the Holy Spirit. They have been enriched with various manifestations of the Spirit, particularly knowledge and speech, which will be explored further in the letter. These gifts serve to confirm and build up the assembly.
- Verses 7–8 reveal that they are anticipating a new world. The Corinthians should be turned away from the old world and eagerly awaiting the arrival of the new one.
- Verse 9 emphasizes their participation and communion with Christ and fellow members. Through the Holy Spirit, they experience the life of Jesus Himself.
These four foundational elements — conversion by grace, empowerment by the Holy Spirit, anticipation of a new world, and communion with Christ and fellow believers — constitute the core of Paul’s vision for his communities. They illustrate both how and why believers should come together as a church. The church, according to Paul, must turn away from the wisdom of the present world, recognizing it as already overturned by the cross of Jesus. Instead, it should function as a community bound by the Holy Spirit, enlightened and empowered for the mutual benefit of the body, for the proclamation of the Gospel to the world, and for the sheer joy of knowing Christ.
In these opening chapters of Corinthians, we encounter the paradoxes and contradictions that will permeate Paul’s message throughout the epistles. These apparent incongruities challenge us to look beyond the surface and dive deep into the rich tapestry of Paul’s wisdom, as we continue our exploration in the chapters that follow.
