Paul tackles a case of incest in the Corinthian church. He explains the need to deal with sin within the church. Jesus had taught how to put church discipline into action. The man in Corinth needed to be put out of the church although there would always a way back into the church.

In Corinth, members of the church were in dispute with each other and instead of resolving the issues with the help of church leaders, they were taking the argument to the law courts.

Paul addresses several questions about marriage and divorce that have been raised by the delegation from the church in Corinth. He explains that marriage is a commitment for Christians and divorce can only happen for those whose partner has either been unfaithful sexually, or as an unbeliever asked for the divorce.

Paul continues to answer specific questions about relationships. He encourages both marriage and singleness. He states that where a choice is possible, Christians should marry Christians.

Paul answers specific questions from the Corinthian church about pagan worship and the culture that surrounded it. The importance of Christians being separate to the pagan culture around them was, and is, important for the benefit of all.

Paul addresses cultural problems that arise in the Corinthian church. Head covering was a symbol of marriage, and the length of hair was important to that culture. Paul refers to Genesis 2 as a basis for understanding Christian marriage.

Paul speaks about the presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives and that He gives gifts to individuals to use to build up the church. Some of the gifts are listed here.

As part of his teaching about the gifts of the Spirit, Paul uses the imagery of the church being like a human body in which all parts work together and are equally important.

Although often used in marriage services and to encourage Christian love, Paul is concerned about the motives for using the gifts of the Spirit. This love is self-sacrificing and serving others.