4 | Contradictions and Paradoxes in Paul’s Corinthian Epistles
Immaturity and the Spirit’s Work — Boasting in Association (Ch 3)
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.
Corinthians as Infants (3:1–4)
Paul addresses the Corinthians as infants, a stark contrast to the spiritual wisdom discussed in Chapter 2. They are not ready for the profound spiritual teachings; instead, they crave shallow, human wisdom that mimics the perceived prestige of their divisive leaders. Paul condemns their behavior, as they still behave “of the flesh” rather than “of the Spirit.” He sarcastically calls their attempts at achievement “merely human,” emphasizing their fixation on personal transcendence over union with God.
The Field, The Building, and the Temple (3:5–16)
Paul shifts our focus away from factional leaders, such as Apollos, reducing them to mere “servants.” They play the roles of planters and waterers rather than upper-class philosophers. The evidence of the Spirit’s presence doesn’t come from associations but directly from an intimate union with God, resulting in the production of fruits and rivers of living water. Fellow workers should be united in mind and judgment, as highlighted in Chapter 1, instead of dividing the congregation.
Paul uses three powerful illustrations to emphasize the importance of the people over the leaders. Believers are God’s workers, fields, buildings, and temples.
Building on a Firm Foundation (3:10–15)
Paul shifts from the analogy of planting and watering to that of founding and building, driving home the same point. These upcoming verses carry dual meanings. Primarily, they serve as a warning to teachers, but they also offer practical instructions for individual lives. The need for care in building one’s life is highlighted.
In verse 11, Christ crucified stands as the sole foundation, as established in Chapter 2. Two building materials are highlighted: spiritual teachings versus boasting in status, association, and accomplishments.
His Reference to “The Day” symbolizes a day of judgment, transformation, and illumination, where faith becomes sight, and everything is purified by the Holy Spirit’s fire. What has been built by the Spirit through the cross of Jesus will bring a reward, while boasting will result in loss and ruin. However, the fire itself will save us.
The Temple of God (3:16–17)
These verses serve as the pinnacle of Paul’s argument, setting the stage for the upcoming chapters. Believers are God’s temple, a concept anchored in Chapters 1, 2, and now 3. They underscore the profound presence of God within believers and highlight the importance of treating fellow believers with utmost care.
All Things Belong to Christ (3:18–23)
Paul revisits his earlier thesis, emphasizing the futility of worldly wisdom in comparison to God’s wisdom. He underscores that believers already possess all things in Christ. Instead of boasting in associations or status, they should recognize that they belong to Christ and, ultimately, to God.
Corinthians Chapter 3 reveals spiritual immaturity and highlights the need for union with God. Through vivid analogies of fields, buildings, and temples, Paul guides us to shift our focus from human leaders to our profound connection with God. As we reflect on these teachings, may we strive for spiritual maturity, unity, and a deeper understanding of our divine connection with God.
