Podcasts about Corinth

After Lam Wai Chan moved from his native Singapore to pastor a church in Japan, he panicked. The church had barely twenty members. In a nation known as a “missionary graveyard,” where about one percent of the nation’s people are Christian and many churches sit empty, Lam felt “like I was taking over a sinking ship.” Crying out to God, he sensed the answer: Offer the church back to Me. Rather than “update” worship or music, Wai Chan asked members to pray—for their needs, family members, friends who didn’t know Jesus. Slowly, the church doubled in size. Their faithful praying is a living, biblical model of how to build a community in Jesus. First, pray. “In every situation by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God,” Paul wrote, “and do all of this without worry about anything” (Philippians 4:6). In this way, we offer our ministries, churches, and programs back to God. We may plant seeds and water them, but as Paul said, “Neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow” (1 Corinthians 3:7). He was imploring believers at Corinth to stop quarrelling about which church leader they followed (v. 4). As Paul said, “No one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ” (v. 11). Let’s prayerfully give our churches back to Him. Then, watch them grow.

Timoleon and the Exile of Dionysius in Corinth. Guest Author: Professor James Romm. Dionysius the Youngereventually reclaimed his fortress, but Syracuse turned to Corinth for aid. Corinth sent Timoleon, a retired man leading a meager mercenary force. Surprisingly, Dionysius chose to abdicate rather than fight, negotiating a peaceful retirement in Corinth. The former tyrant lived his final years as a music teacher and priest. He famously claimed his ability to endure poverty proved he had learned from Plato. This fall from power gave rise to the proverb "Dionysius is in Corinth," signifying the inherent uncertainty of fortune and absolute power. 6

Lesson #1 for Saturday, July 4, 2026 1 and 2 Corinthians Adult Sabbath School Lesson 3rd Quarter, 2026

How did a church come to exist in the carnal, immoral, idolatrous city of Corinth, and why did Paul love it enough to write it a letter?

In this message, Pastor J.D. kicks off our series in the book of 1 Corinthians, showing how the gospel cuts through the noise and chaos of our lives. First up—the issue of divisions in the church. We may assume that church factions are a new phenomenon. But one glance at the church in Corinth reveals that dysfunction, division, and doctrinal chaos are as old as the church itself. And yet, in the midst of all this conflict, all this division, all this noise, the gospel provides a voice of clarity and a place of calm.

Episode Synopsis:In the opening words of the Book of Romans, Paul introduces himself to a church he has never visited and to a group of fellow believers, most of whom he has never met in person.  Therefore, it is important for Paul to explain his apostolic office as well his role in undertaking the Gentile mission.  Paul is making travel plans which include a future visit to the city of Rome.  Since the church in Rome was predominantly Gentile (with a Jewish Minority), it is important that both groups understand that all of Paul's missionary efforts are grounded in the preaching of the Gospel of God–the death and resurrection of Jesus on behalf of sinners.To the Jewish Christians in Rome, Paul must explain that the gospel he preaches was revealed to him by Jesus Christ who was himself a descendant of David (Israel's greatest king), while at the same time the eternal Son of God who ushers in a new age in redemptive history.  This gospel is not a message invented by Paul–a charge he's heard previously from opponents in Galatia and Corinth.  The gospel which he is about to proclaim in the balance of the letter to follow, is the same message proclaimed throughout the Old Testament–though hidden in types and shadows, and a mystery which Paul is about to explain.  Furthermore, the gospel is true because its central figure (Jesus) has not only the proper Davidic genealogy, but he was raised bodily from the dead in power in accordance with the work of the Holy Spirit.  By virtue of his resurrection, Jesus is the Lord–an important bit of information to those living in Rome during the days of Caesar Nero, who thinks of himself as a sort of demi-God.  Nero is not Lord, Jesus is.Since Rome is such an important place–the capital of a huge pagan empire–Paul will make the point that this gospel “promised before hand,” is a gospel for all the nations, as foretold by Israel's prophets.  This gospel summons all those called to belong to Jesus to the obedience of faith.  Is faith an act of obedience in our part.  Is it a work?  Is it the one thing which we must do to be saved?  Is there any merit in faith–something God sees and rewards.  And what is so-called, “evangelical obedience?” For show notes and other recommended materials located at the Riddleblog as mentioned during the Blessed Hope Podcast, click here:  https://www.kimriddlebarger.com/

Paul encouraged the Christians in Corinth by writing, "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) In this series, we will be exploring how each of us are gifted to serve in God's kingdom. We will reflect on spiritual gifts. How do spiritual gifts enable us to join in the work of the Holy Spirit in the world? Guided by the two motifs: Prophet, Priest, and King and the 5-Fold Ministry Paul details in his letter to the Ephesians, we are invited to consider what spiritual gifts we identify with and how those gifts influence the way we join with the Spirit's kingdom work in the world today. This week, Rebecca Moss invites to consider Ephesians 4:7-16 and the ways in whch God gives us as gifts to one another.

Send us a message!We read Acts 17 and 18 and watch the gospel collide with jealousy in Thessalonica, careful study in Berea, curiosity in Athens, and conflict in Corinth. We end by asking what kind of listener you are when God's Word challenges you, especially when the message feels familiar instead of new. • Paul reasons from Scripture that Jesus is the Christ • Thessalonica erupts in jealousy and political accusations • Bereans examine the Scriptures daily as a model for discernment • Paul confronts idols in Athens and preaches the Creator and resurrection • Mixed reactions to the resurrection and a few believe • Paul's work and ministry partnership with Priscilla and Aquila in Corinth • God's encouragement to keep speaking without fear • Gallio dismisses the charges and the case fizzles • Apollos grows through humble correction and becomes a powerful advocate  At outloudbible.com, you can find free resources to help you study the Bible. And while you're there, send us a message to say hi, or start a conversation about having us at your church or event. If Outloud Bible has been a valuable part of your understanding of the Bible, please consider supporting the ministry by visiting outloudbible.com.Support the showCheck out outloudbible.com for helpful study resources, and to discover how to bring the public reading of God's word to your church, conference, retreat, or other event.

If we are open to improve, the Scriptures will guide us and God's family will help by providing the example and godly reproof and correction as needed. There are two types of mourning or shame; (1) Godly and healthy, and (2) Worldly and toxic. The first inspires change and the second causes resentments, guilt, condemnation and escapism. 2 Timothy 3:15-17 doctrine – reproof – correction Proverbs 12:1; 15:10 the person who hates reproof is stupid Matthew 19:16-22 the rich man was not open to improve 1 Kings 12:1-19 Rehoboam did not receive wise counsel 2 Corinthians 7:8-11 the Corinthians received reproof and correction and changed.  Right sorrow can cause transformation and change. Two kinds of sorrow – (1) Godly sorrow causes godly change and (2) Worldly sorrow causes guilt, isolation, condemnation and usually escapism. Biblical education and godly community are important to develop conscience and character. 1 Corinthians 6:2, 3, 9, 15, 16 Paul taught them during the 18 months he was with them so why the negative lifestyle change? The culture of Corinth continued to exert a strong influence on the believers. Rather than transforming their society, many of the saints were being shaped by it. The values, practices, and attitudes of the surrounding pagan culture had begun to infiltrate the church, producing the very problems that Paul was compelled to confront in his letter. How do we help others to change? Two kinds of shame – toxic and healthy 1 Corinthians 1:1-9 he built them up, did not belittle, tear down, reject; rather he loved them and reminded them of who they really are in Christ. Luke 10:17-24 Jesus is the example Luke 10:38-42 Martha, Martha Hebrews 10:22-25 we need the word and each other If we are open to improve, God will help through His Word and people. Rev. Vince uses the Bible version NASB-95The post Transformation 4: Openness to Improve first appeared on Living Hope.

It's sad but true that the modern-day evangelical church is compromising some of the foundational standards of the Word of God...questioning biblical authority, sexual morality and God's sovereignty. But these compromises are nothing new. Join Dr. Boice next time on The Bible Study Hour as he examines Paul's admonition concerning the compromise in the church at Corinth that still apply to us today. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29?v=20251111

Stop Living Like You're Going To Run Out On June 25, 1967, the Beatles debuted a new song during the first live international satellite broadcast in human history. Roughly 350 million people across 25 countries tuned in at once. It was the first time technology had connected the world in real time, and the most influential band on the planet had the chance to say anything they wanted to all of it. They chose “All You Need Is Love.” Credit where it's due: they weren't wrong about the diagnosis. We do need love. Our families need it, our communities need it, you need it. But the Summer of Love built its vision on a definition of love untethered from commitment, more about self-expression than self-sacrifice, more about discovering yourself than denying yourself for someone else. We're still living in the wake of that definition. There's a sad irony here too. Less than three years after that broadcast, the band that sang “all you need is love” had broken up. We shouldn't judge them too quickly, though. We're all prone to the same thing. Marriages fall apart. Friendships dissolve. Churches split. Left in our own power, none of us are naturally quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. A Letter Without a Fire to Put Out Paul's letter to the Ephesians stands apart from his other letters in an important way. Most of Paul's writing is reactive. He writes to Corinth because they keep finding creative new ways to sin. He writes to the Thessalonians because they've quit their jobs, convinced the end is imminent. He writes to Timothy because fear has gotten the better of him. Ephesians isn't putting out a fire. Paul is painting a picture: a church where enemies become family, where broken people are made whole, where love isn't just defined but actually displayed. And right at the hinge point of the letter, before he tells anyone how to live or love, Paul drops to his knees and prays. Specifically, he prays that the church would be filled with the fullness of God's love. Why start there? Because your vision of God's love determines the shape of your entire life. If you believe God is distant, you'll live anxious. If you believe his love must be earned, you'll live like a performer. If you believe he's withholding, you'll live fearful and controlling. But if you believe he delights in you, you'll live secure. There's a real difference between knowing God loves you and actually believing it. Gradual, and Multi-Sensory Paul's prayer reveals two things about how this comprehension actually happens. First, it doesn't happen all at once. Paul prays in a kind of staircase: being strengthened in your inner being, then Christ taking up full residence in your heart (not just visiting, but holding keys to every door, including the ones you keep locked), then becoming rooted and grounded in love as your actual operating system, and finally being filled with the fullness of God. This is the slow work of spiritual formation, becoming a person with greater and greater capacity to both receive and give love. Second, it doesn't happen in one way. We tend to assume love is something you learn in a classroom, like memorizing facts about the ocean. But Paul prays that we'd “know Christ's love that surpasses knowledge.” That's not something you take care of in a single lecture. It's something closer to diving into the water itself. You experience God's love in community, when people pull their chairs closer instead of pulling away from your honesty. You experience it in practice, in things like Sabbath rest, which you can't learn from a textbook, only from doing it. You experience it through the Holy Spirit, who ministers directly to your deepest wounds. And you experience it in both moments and marathons: the instant where you finally feel like you don't have to hide anymore, and the long seasons of endurance that shape you over years. The Problem Was Never Scarcity A couple adopted a five-year-old girl from Haiti named Addie, whose parents had died in an accident. Her first night in her new home, she watched her two teenage brothers devour an entire dinner and clear the table. She went quiet, convinced she'd just witnessed the last meal she'd see for a while. Her new mother didn't just tell her there was more food. She walked her to the fridge, the pantry, the freezer, and showed her everything. “Honey, you'll never go hungry again.” That's what Paul is doing in this prayer. He's opening the fridge. He's opening the pantry. He's saying: stop living like an orphan. Stop living like God's love is scarce. Look around. There is more than enough. The problem was never a shortage of God's love. The problem is our capacity to receive it. Many of us are sitting at the Father's table still living like we're starving.

Kevin Anderson speaks from Acts 18 on how the Lord builds His church through the faithful, everyday obedience of ordinary believers who trust in His power.

This Sunday, we begin a new summer sermon series: Following Jesus in Real Life: Lessons from Corinth.Though written nearly 2,000 years ago, Paul's letters to the Corinthians speak directly to many of the same challenges we face today—division, identity, relationships, money, culture, influence, and what it truly means to follow Jesus in the midst of everyday life.In this first message, "Value Systems," Pastor Kee explores a question that lies beneath so many of our decisions: Who is shaping the way we think and live? As Paul addresses the divisions within the Corinthian church, he uncovers a deeper issue—God's people were allowing the values of the surrounding culture to shape them more than the way of Christ.Join us as we begin this journey through Corinthians and discover what it looks like to follow Jesus—not just in theory, but in real life.Sundays at 10AM

Stop Living Like You're Going To Run OutOn June 25, 1967, the Beatles debuted a new song during the first live international satellite broadcast in human history. Roughly 350 million people across 25 countries tuned in at once. It was the first time technology had connected the world in real time, and the most influential band on the planet had the chance to say anything they wanted to all of it.They chose “All You Need Is Love.”Credit where it's due: they weren't wrong about the diagnosis. We do need love. Our families need it, our communities need it, you need it. But the Summer of Love built its vision on a definition of love untethered from commitment, more about self-expression than self-sacrifice, more about discovering yourself than denying yourself for someone else. We're still living in the wake of that definition.There's a sad irony here too. Less than three years after that broadcast, the band that sang “all you need is love” had broken up. We shouldn't judge them too quickly, though. We're all prone to the same thing. Marriages fall apart. Friendships dissolve. Churches split. Left in our own power, none of us are naturally quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger.A Letter Without a Fire to Put OutPaul's letter to the Ephesians stands apart from his other letters in an important way. Most of Paul's writing is reactive. He writes to Corinth because they keep finding creative new ways to sin. He writes to the Thessalonians because they've quit their jobs, convinced the end is imminent. He writes to Timothy because fear has gotten the better of him.Ephesians isn't putting out a fire. Paul is painting a picture: a church where enemies become family, where broken people are made whole, where love isn't just defined but actually displayed.And right at the hinge point of the letter, before he tells anyone how to live or love, Paul drops to his knees and prays. Specifically, he prays that the church would be filled with the fullness of God's love.Why start there? Because your vision of God's love determines the shape of your entire life. If you believe God is distant, you'll live anxious. If you believe his love must be earned, you'll live like a performer. If you believe he's withholding, you'll live fearful and controlling. But if you believe he delights in you, you'll live secure.There's a real difference between knowing God loves you and actually believing it.Gradual, and Multi-SensoryPaul's prayer reveals two things about how this comprehension actually happens.First, it doesn't happen all at once. Paul prays in a kind of staircase: being strengthened in your inner being, then Christ taking up full residence in your heart (not just visiting, but holding keys to every door, including the ones you keep locked), then becoming rooted and grounded in love as your actual operating system, and finally being filled with the fullness of God. This is the slow work of spiritual formation, becoming a person with greater and greater capacity to both receive and give love.Second, it doesn't happen in one way. We tend to assume love is something you learn in a classroom, like memorizing facts about the ocean. But Paul prays that we'd “know Christ's love that surpasses knowledge.” That's not something you take care of in a single lecture. It's something closer to diving into the water itself.You experience God's love in community, when people pull their chairs closer instead of pulling away from your honesty. You experience it in practice, in things like Sabbath rest, which you can't learn from a textbook, only from doing it. You experience it through the Holy Spirit, who ministers directly to your deepest wounds. And you experience it in both moments and marathons: the instant where you finally feel like you don't have to hide anymore, and the long seasons of endurance that shape you over years.The Problem Was Never ScarcityA couple adopted a five-year-old girl from Haiti named Addie, whose parents had died in an accident. Her first night in her new home, she watched her two teenage brothers devour an entire dinner and clear the table. She went quiet, convinced she'd just witnessed the last meal she'd see for a while.Her new mother didn't just tell her there was more food. She walked her to the fridge, the pantry, the freezer, and showed her everything. “Honey, you'll never go hungry again.”That's what Paul is doing in this prayer. He's opening the fridge. He's opening the pantry. He's saying: stop living like an orphan. Stop living like God's love is scarce. Look around. There is more than enough.The problem was never a shortage of God's love. The problem is our capacity to receive it. Many of us are sitting at the Father's table still living like we're starving.

1 Corinthians 6:12-20 It's sad but true that the modern-day evangelical church is compromising some of the foundational standards of the Word of God...questioning biblical authority, sexual morality and God's sovereignty. But these compromises are nothing new. Join Dr. Boice on The Bible Study Hour as he examines Paul's admonition concerning the compromise in the church at Corinth that still apply to us today.

Wesley Wright Lighthouse Bible Church Sunday, June 21, 2026 2Co 9:1-7 Title: The Lord loves a cheerful giver Paul makes it clear that it's unnecessary that he write about the giving of the Corinthians (2Co 9:1). He did so anyway - that's a rhetorical device called paraleipsis. In short, by saying that you will not mention something, you are in fact mentioning it. Two examples of paraleipsis in the NT: 1Th 4:9-12, Heb 11:27-34 Paul had already made it known to others that those in Corinth were willing to give (2Co 9:2) - now this was their chance to finish what they started originally. The people of Corinth procrastinated some, evidently. They had already been collecting funds since the previous year: 2Co... for full notes: http://www.lbible.org/index.php?proc=msg&sf=vw&tid=1795

What if the most overlooked passage in Romans holds one of its most powerful truths? Romans 16 reads like a simple list of names—26 people we've never heard of, immortalized in Scripture for reasons that aren't immediately clear. But when we dig deeper, we discover something profound: these aren't just credits at the end of a movie. These are real people with real lives, real struggles, and real faith that changed the world. From Phoebe, entrusted with carrying the precious letter of Romans across dangerous terrain, to Priscilla and Aquila, who risked their lives and opened their home for the church in hostile Rome, to Rufus, whose father Simon carried Jesus' cross—each name tells a story of sacrifice, diversity, and unity in Christ. What emerges is a beautiful picture of the early church: slaves teaching masters, women serving as deacons, Jews and Gentiles working side by side, wealthy and poor united in purpose. The central message challenges us today: Are we building the same kind of diverse, sacrificial, loving community? Would we risk our homes, our comfort, our status for the gospel? And most importantly, do we recognize that God knows each of us by name, just as intimately as He knew these 26 saints? This passage reminds us that God is both infinitely big—breathing out stars—and intimately personal, numbering the hairs on our heads and calling us each by name.**Detailed Notes**- **All Scripture Matters** – 2 Tim. 3:16–17   - All Scripture is God‑breathed and profitable, even “just a list of names” in Romans 16.   - The Spirit intentionally preserved these 26 names to teach us.- **Phoebe (Rom. 16:1–2)**   - Sister, servant (diakonos / deacon), patron (financial supporter).   - Likely carried the only copy of Romans from Corinth to Rome—dangerous, costly, yet faithful.   - Deacons = lead servants; trusted with people, money, and needs.- **Priscilla & Aquila (16:3–5; Acts 18; 2 Tim. 4:19)**   - Fellow workers; risked their necks for Paul; hosted a church in their home.   - Forced out of Rome; everywhere they went, they planted churches.   - Viewed exile and hardship as mission, not punishment.   - Tentmaking friendship with Paul likely began through ordinary vocational contact.   - Lifelong, harmonious partners in ministry.- **Epaenetus (16:5)**   - First convert in Asia; Paul still knows his name and story.   - Firstfruits of a Gentile harvest.- **Andronicus & Junia (16:7)**   - Kinsmen, fellow prisoners, in Christ before Paul, well known among the apostles.   - Likely family Paul once persecuted; powerful testimony of grace and reconciliation.   - Example of costly obedience (imprisonment, suffering).- **Ampliatus & Others (16:8ff)**   - Likely former slave who rose to church leadership.   - Early church mixed slave/free, male/female, Jew/Greek, rich/poor—fulfilling Gal. 3:28.   - Masters sometimes sat under teaching of their slaves; the kingdom inverts status.- **Rufus & His Mother (16:13; Mark 15:21)**   - Probably the son of Simon of Cyrene who carried Jesus' cross.   - Simon's forced interruption became his family's salvation story.   - Rufus' mother became like a mother to Paul.- **Big Themes from the Names**   - Real people, real costs, real love, real partnership.   - Church as family: greeting, thanking, remembering, honoring.   - Diversity and unity under Christ, not human categories.- **God Knows Your Name (Luke 19:1–10 & Survey of Scripture)**   - Jesus calls Zacchaeus by name; salvation comes to his house.   - God calls individuals by name across Scripture (Adam, Noah, Moses, David, Lazarus, Saul, etc.).   - The Creator who names the stars also numbers the hairs on our heads.   - He has not abandoned or forgotten us; He is personal and near.---**Practical Applications**1. **See Yourself as a “Name” God Knows**    - Pray personally: “Lord, thank You that You know me and my situation.”2. **Embrace Servant Leadership**    - Look for ways to be a “Phoebe” or a deacon‑hearted servant this week—meet a practical need.3. **Open Your Home and Life**    - Consider how your home/resources can serve the kingdom, not just comfort.4. **Pursue Gospel Friendships**    - Initiate one new conversation at church; your “tentmaking” connection may become lifelong partnership.5. **Reject Status & Division**    - Examine prejudice (race, class, gender, education). Repent and intentionally honor someone different from you.---**Discussion Questions**1. Which person in Romans 16 stood out to you most and why?  2. How does knowing that God preserved these “hidden” names affect how you see unnoticed service in the church?  3. Where might God be inviting you to turn a hardship or “exile” into a mission opportunity?  4. In what concrete ways can your home or job become a platform for ministry, like Priscilla and Aquila?  5. How have you personally experienced God's “He knows my name” care?  6. What divisions or hierarchies do you see creeping into the church today, and how can we resist them?

One of the greatest frustrations in life is to express genuine love to someone, and have them turn around and give nothing back in return... except a cold shoulder or rejection. In chapter twelve of Second Corinthians, the apostle Paul draws our attention to his love for the church at Corinth. While he loved more and more, they gave less and less in return

In this episode, Mark and Cindy continue their verse-by-verse study of 1 Corinthians 1:10–19, where Paul confronts the divisions that had arisen among believers in Corinth. They examine God's call for unity, the danger of elevating human leaders above Christ, the purpose of baptism and gospel preaching, and the contrast between worldly wisdom and the power of the cross. Through biblical commentary and practical application, this discussion challenges listeners to pursue humility, reject factionalism, and place their confidence not in human eloquence or philosophy, but in the saving message of Jesus Christ crucified.

It seems there was a time when men settled their differences face-to-face, man-to-man, and--unlike today--going to court was usually a final option. Yet, in the Corinthian church, Christians were taking their disputes to court to let the world decide the outcome. Join Dr. James Boice on The Bible Study Hour as he looks at Paul's third admonition to the church at Corinth. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/581/29?v=20251111

Dive into the rich history of the early Church with Fr. Assisi Saldanha, C.Ss.R., in this enlightening episode of Who's Who in the Bible. Journey to the vibrant, ancient city of Corinth to explore the complex relationship between St. Paul and the Corinthian community.This session masterfully breaks down Paul's primary concerns, including the challenges of internal division, moral struggles, the proper use of spiritual gifts, and the profound mystery of the resurrection. Whether you are seeking historical context or spiritual depth, Fr. Assisi offers practical insights into these essential Pauline teachings. Don't miss out on this captivating series—join us today to deepen your understanding of the faith and be inspired by these foundational biblical narratives!

If someone only did a shallow, superficial reading of the first four books of the New Testament, (the Gospels), they would certainly walk away knowing that Jesus did not come to earth looking for perfect people.  The lives of those closest to Jesus during His earthly ministry, were pretty much all “hot messes”! When the Apostle Paul wrote his first letter to Christians in the city of Corinth, he resolutely and tenaciously pointed out this reality in their lives too! “Brothers and sisters, consider what you were when God called you to be Christians. Not many of you were wise from a human point of view. You were not in powerful positions or in the upper social classes. But God chose what the world considers nonsense to put wise people to shame. God chose what the world considers weak to put what is strong to shame. God chose what the world considers ordinary and what it despises—what it considers to be nothing—in order to destroy what it considers to be something… You are partners with Christ Jesus because of God.”                                                1 Corinthians 1:26–31 (GW) “Don't you know that wicked people won't inherit God's kingdom? Stop deceiving yourselves! People who continue to commit sexual sins, who worship false gods, those who commit adultery, homosexuals, or thieves, those who are greedy or drunk, who use abusive language, or who rob people will not inherit God's kingdom. That's what some of you were!”                     1 Corinthians 6:9–11 (GW) Hebrews 13:8 declares that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”  This means He is still seeking imperfect people! Join us as we explore why an “unwritten rule” at Riverbluff is “NO PERFECT PEOPLE ALLOWED”! Pastor Joe Still ____________________________________ Connect with us: Website: http://www.riverbluff.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RiverbluffChurch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riverbluffchs/ How can we pray for you? http://www.riverbluff.org/help/prayer-request Give to the Kingdom work of Riverbluff Church: http://www.riverbluff.org/give

This is a reading for meditation of selected teachings/sayings of the Desert Mothers, taken from 'Apophthegmata Patrum' (Sayings of the Desert Fathers & Mothers) translated by Benedicta Ward; and Philokia: compiled in the eighteenth century by Macarius of Corinth (1731-1805). The teachings spoken here are from the Mothers - Amma Theodora, Amma Syncletica and Amma Sarah.The Desert Mothers lived primarily in the fourth and fifth centuries, withdrawing to the arid regions of the eastern Mediterranean at a time when Christianity had become legally protected and increasingly institutionalized. Like their male counterparts, they sought the desert as a place of stripping away — a landscape where distractions fell silent and the soul was exposed before God.Some lived in loose monastic communities; others inhabited abandoned tombs, caves, or simple mud-brick cells. Their days were shaped by prayer, fasting, manual labor, and long periods of silence. Water was scarce, food minimal, and illness common. The desert was not romantic — it was a place of bodily weakness and spiritual testing.They were called ammas, meaning “mothers,” a title that conveyed both intimacy and authority. This was not sentimental language. To be an amma was to be recognized as someone whose life had been tested and whose counsel could be trusted.

Paul encouraged the Christians in Corinth by writing, "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) In this series, we will be exploring how each of us are gifted to serve in God's kingdom. We will reflect on spiritual gifts. How do spiritual gifts enable us to join in the work of the Holy Spirit in the world? Guided by the two motifs: Prophet, Priest, and King and the 5-Fold Ministry Paul details in his letter to the Ephesians, we are invited to consider what spiritual gifts we identify with and how those gifts influence the way we join with the Spirit's kingdom work in the world today. This week, Casey Tygrett guides us through Paul's words about unity and spiritual gifts to the Church in Rome.

What happens when Christians start choosing sides?In this episode of Corinth Conversations, Dr. T. Michael W. Halcomb and Dr. Fredrick J. Long explore one of the earliest leadership crises in the church.Why were believers saying, "I follow Paul," "I follow Apollos," or "I follow Cephas"? Was this simply a disagreement—or something deeper?Together they unpack 1 Corinthians 1:12–13 and discuss church division, leadership, baptism, status, Christian celebrity culture, and why Paul's response remains surprisingly relevant today.

Dear friends,“Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up”. What a challenge Paul gives to us in the first verse of his answer to the Corinthians' question about food offered to idols.As we continue our discussion of this part of 1 Corinthians, I hope you will share with us the wonder of thinking lovingly about knowledge. For knowledge, especially the knowledge of God and his ways, is very important. But knowledge, like many good things, can be used for evil as well as for good. Without love, our knowledge will be used for our benefit instead of the benefit of others. And so we will fall under the condemnation of being puffed up instead of building others up.It is just so fascinating how Paul's discussions of particular problems in 1st century Corinth open up for us such permanently important topics.Yours,PhillipFreely available, supported by generosity.If you enjoy Two Ways News, why not lend us a hand? Consider joining our Supporters Club—friends who make it possible for us to keep producing this article/podcast. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.twoways.news/subscribe

Rev. Walt Marcum

Grow with us as we venture together through the correctional words that Paul delivers to the church in Corinth! Speaker: Pastor Alicia RamosSeries: WE ARE THE CHURCH Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:1-18www.risechurchid.org

Rev. Walt Marcum

It seems there was a time when men settled their differences face-to-face, man-to-man, and--unlike today--going to court was usually a final option. Yet, in the Corinthian church, Christians were taking their disputes to court to let the world decide the outcome. Join Dr. James Boice next time on The Bible Study Hour as he looks at Paul's third admonition to the church at Corinth. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/81/29?v=20251111

1 Corinthians 6:1-11 It seems there was a time when men settled their differences face-to-face, man-to-man, and--unlike today--going to court was usually a final option. Yet, in the Corinthian church, Christians were taking their disputes to court to let the world decide the outcome. Join Dr. James Boice on The Bible Study Hour as he looks at Paul's third admonition to the church at Corinth.

Pastor Troy Dobbs' sermon from Acts 18 focused on how God helps His people stay the course when they are weary, discouraged, or tempted to quit. After years of hardship, opposition, and exhausting travel, Paul arrived in Corinth worn down, yet God strengthened him through five key means: community (Aquila and Priscilla), timely encouragement (new believers coming to faith), divine assurance ("Do not be afraid, for I am with you"), unexpected provision (Gallio protecting the church), and a renewed sense of mission. The sermon emphasized that God often sustains us through relationships, small victories, His Word, and circumstances we never would have planned ourselves. Pastor Troy reminded the church not to overlook the importance of deep spiritual friendships and godly partnerships that help us endure difficult seasons. He also highlighted that God's work continues beyond any one person, as seen when leaders like Apollos carried forward the ministry Paul began. The central takeaway was that endurance in the Christian life comes from trusting that God's mission belongs to Him, not us — and He always provides what we need to keep moving forward.

Wesley Wright Lighthouse Bible Church Sunday, June 14, 2026 2Co 8:16-24 Title: Providing for honest things in the sight of Lord and men Paul's representative to pick up the contribution from those in Corinth is a man named Titus. He and Paul were close: Tit 1:1-4, Gal 2:1-6 Titus had genuine love for the folks in the church at Corinth, and his readers were familiar with him. He went on his own accord to them with a unknown brother (2Co :16-19). We talked a great of about freewill giving in past weeks. Paul is concerned with the appearance of how his associates use the resources that people have provided (2Co 8:20-21). Paul understood how important it was that people recognize their work as aboveboard.... for full notes: http://www.lbible.org/index.php?proc=msg&sf=vw&tid=1794

The Good Work: Who is Titus? - Week TwoTitus 1:1-5 Pastor Christopher Ek This week we continue The Good Work, our summer series on the island of Crete. Last week we met the church. This week we meet the man Paul trusted with it. His name was Titus. Roman to the core. Tested in Jerusalem. Proven in Corinth. Trusted with one of the hardest assignments in the early church. His story is fascinating. www.bethanycovenant.com 

Click to watchWe find the word “church” over 100 times in the New Testament. We also find this word over 100 times in the Greek translation of the Old Testament. Paul addresses the Christians at Corinth in a way that helps us to understand who we are: “to the church of God that is in Corinth, to those  sanctified in Christ Jesus,  called to be saints together with all those who in every place  call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours” (1 Cor 1:2). We see that the church is the people of God, united through faith in Jesus, and called to make disciples everywhere. 

This sermon introduces 2 Corinthians by explaining the long, difficult relationship between Paul and the church in Corinth—a congregation marked by division, immorality, pride, celebrity culture, and resistance to Paul's authority. The pastor emphasizes that despite the church's many failures, Paul addresses them as "the church of God" and "saints," showing that God defines His people by their identity in Christ rather than by their current weaknesses and sins. The central application is that both personal sanctification and church renewal begin by believing what God says about us, allowing Him to transform us from the inside out into the holy people He has already declared us to be.

This sermon explores why the Christians at Corinth were stuck in their infancy stage of faith. Walking through 1 Corinthians 3, we discover the source of the Christian's immaturity, and the consequential divisions: their tendency to follow human teachers like Paul and Apollos instead of Christ himself. The message emphasizes that Jesus is the only true foundation, and that our works will one day be tested by God. Listeners are challenged to move from “milk to solid food” by confronting sin, rejecting worldly wisdom, and pursuing unified, mature devotion to Christ.

Speaker: Pastor Chris ChesleyScripture(s): 1 Corinthians 1:4-9

In this episode, Mark and Cindy begin an in-depth exploration of 1 Corinthians, discussing Paul's transformation from persecutor to apostle, the identity and calling of God's people and the rich grace believers have received through Jesus Christ. We examine the historical backdrop of Corinth, the meaning of sanctification and Christian fellowship, and the faithfulness of God in equipping, sustaining, and preparing His people for the return of Christ. Through verse-by-verse commentary and a few reflections from respected Bible scholars, this discussion highlights the believer's calling to holiness, gratitude, steadfast faith, and deeper communion with Jesus.

What was Paul's purpose in writing 2 Corinthians? Listen to this message to learn that it was the Apostle Paul's fourth letter to the church in Corinth and its purpose was to address them personally and comfort them. See that the Corinthians were mostly Gentiles and like their culture, many were sexually immoral and arrogant, liking oratory and philosophical wisdom. They had turned the Lord's Table into a drunken orgy. It was written in AD 50, based on Gallio's rule. Find out this Epistle was written after Paul's 3rd missionary journey.

In our last episode, Paul boasted about his works in order to show the church at Corinth that if boasting were a contest, he would win against his so-called competition, the super-apostles. In the end, however, he concluded that it was better to boast of his weaknesses. He continues where he left off, telling the church that the Lord gave him a “thorn in the flesh… a messenger of Satan to torment me so that I would not exalt myself.” It is when we are weak in the flesh, that we can be strong in Christ. He concludes this line of thinking by assuring the church that everything he has said was for building up the church and not as a defense. Finally, he ends with exhortations to test yourself to see if you are in the faith, and to rejoice. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

Episode Synopsis:When Paul writes his letter to the church in Rome, he is still in Corinth, having made a difficult visit there to deal with the ongoing problems in the Corinthian church, which we addressed in Season Four (when we covered 2 Corinthians).  But things have improved in Corinth to the point that Paul is making plans to continue his Gentile mission.  Before that can happen, Paul must make the journey to Jerusalem to deliver the offering collected from the churches in Greece.  Having done that, Paul hopes to go on to Spain (at the opposite end of the Mediterranean Sea).  The midpoint between Jerusalem and Spain is the Italian peninsula and the city of Rome.  So Paul writes a letter of introduction to the church there, a letter which we now know as Paul's Epistle to the Romans. Paul is unquestionably the author of Romans.  His epistle was sent by messenger – a woman named Phoebe – from Corinth to Rome early in 57 CE.  In this letter, the apostle addresses a number of matters which we will discuss in great detail in future episodes.  But if we are to boil down the contents of Romans to a single word, that word would be “gospel.”  Paul does not say much about the church to which he is writing–he's never been there.  But we do know from the contents of this letter that like other churches of the Gentile mission, the Roman church was predominantly Gentile, though a number of Jews in Rome had come to faith in Jesus Christ.  And so Paul must explain how these two groups fit in God's larger plan and how they are to get along with each other despite their cultural and religious differences.  Paul does this by stressing that both Jews and Gentiles are reckoned righteous, reconciled to the same God through the work of the same Savior in the power of the Holy Spirit, and this through the preaching of the one gospel. Many Christians are familiar with the Book of Romans, but are likely far less familiar with the city, the situation there, and the recipients of this letter.  What was Rome like in the days of Paul?  What was it like to be an inhabitant of the city?  How did you live, and under what circumstances?  Where did you eat or work?  What was it like to live under the reign of Nero?  Life was brutal and cruel for many of the city's inhabitants, but luxurious by first-century standards for others.  Why were the Jews expelled twice from the city?  And how did the gospel first arrive in the capital of this powerful pagan empire?  It is an interesting story and I'll do my best to tell it.For show notes and other recommended materials located at the Riddleblog as mentioned during the Blessed Hope Podcast, click here:  https://www.kimriddlebarger.com/

As mentioned in previous episodes, the church at Corinth has been influenced by false teachers whom Paul calls “super-apostles.” They came to town with eloquent speeches, self-exaltation, pedigrees of varying kinds, and, unsurprisingly, requests for money. Paul is jealous for the church at Corinth as a husband would be jealous for his bride. He doesn't want the church at Corinth to be impressed with polished public speaking or crafty teachings that are inferior to the gospel. He knows that if Satan can appear as an angel of light, then it is certainly no surprise that his servants would disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Paul riffs on the idea of boasting by boasting about himself in jest, for if boasting is necessary Paul has these guys beat hands-down. :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org

1 Corinthians 1:1-9 with AJ Swoboda — This Sunday, AJ kicks off our new sermon series entitled "Called" by exploring the introduction to Paul's letter to the church in Corinth and what it means that God has called us to be holy people in our world today.

2 Corinthians 13:1-14 - Speaker: Lukus Counterman - In the book of 2 Corinthians, Paul has been trying to mend his relationship with the church of Corinth. They have ignored him, disregarded him, slandered him, and questioned him repeatedly. In the final chapter, he prays for restoration. He longs for the day when the broken are mended and the wounded are healed. May the Lord teach us and lead us as we too seek restoration in difficult relationships.

There's a church that might sound familiar to you. Members were dividing into rival camps built around celebrity pastors. A sex scandal had come to light, and many were simply dismissing it as irrelevant. Christians were suing fellow Christians in public court. The church had completely lost its witness to the outside world. Spiritual gifts were plentiful, but people were using them as status symbols to fuel pride and competition. Political and social divisions were tearing relationships apart. Some members were even openly questioning core Christian beliefs, including the resurrection of Jesus.Sound like a headline from this week? Perhaps a mega-church scandal you read about recently?This is actually the church at Corinth—2,000 years ago.__________Get more out of today's teaching by visiting our Church Online page for things like our community guide, a weekly devotional, and the teaching slides. EthosOH.com/churchonline

Paul encouraged the Christians in Corinth by writing, "There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good." (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) In this series, we will be exploring how each of us are gifted to serve in God's kingdom. We will reflect on spiritual gifts. How do spiritual gifts enable us to join in the work of the Holy Spirit in the world? Guided by the two motifs: Prophet, Priest, and King and the 5-Fold Ministry Paul details in his letter to the Ephesians, we are invited to consider what spiritual gifts we identify with and how those gifts influence the way we join with the Spirit's kingdom work in the world today. This week, Gail Donahue explores Paul's teaching on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:1-11.