Paul looks forward to his third visit. Paul encourages church discipline which hopefully will lead to repentance and forgiveness and re-joining the church. He challenges his readers to consider their own behaviour and morality and to repent humbly. Restoration is important.

Paul teaches that Christians have an intimate relationship with Christ which he compares to engagement and marriage made possible by the Holy Spirit dwelling in the Christian. He strongly opposed those who taught that people could earn their salvation by adhering to rules. He outlined his sufferings for the gospel and their benefit.

Paul teaches about what happens to a Christian immediately after death. He compares our life now to living in a tent whereas our future home is permanent. To die is to be immediately in God’s presence. We are assured of this by the Holy Spirit in us.

Paul explains that the old covenant has been replaced by the new covenant in Jesus. The Law of Moses with its rules and priesthood was given for that time and only for Jews. The new covenant is for all and is based on a new relationship with God as its foundation through the work of the Holy Spirit.

Paul explains the reason for the delay in his visit. He uses an image of a Roman victory procession to show how Christians are part of God’s Kingdom. He compares his ministry and motivation to that of the false teachers who have gone to Corinth.

Paul clarified his travel plans and his desire to visit the church and overcome the relationship difficulty he was experiencing with the church. He emphasised that in contrast God always keeps his promises and is faithful which he had taught them through the scriptures.

Paul opens his letter by greeting the church at Corinth and explaining that the letter is in response to a letter from Chloe expressing concern for the church. Problems with leadership and baptism are addressed in this episode.

Paul explains that the cross is foolish to those who do not believe. Jews look for signs and Greeks look for wisdom but God offers a relationship with Him that will transform them.

The ‘big plan’ of God is revealed, as is the ‘mystery’ of how all the nations will be blessed through the Jewish nation. Paul introduces the work of the person of the Holy Spirit to lead and guide us through our lives.

Paul explains that the only foundation a church should be built upon is the gospel of Jesus. There can be false teaching which is the responsibility of the leaders of the church. If what they have built is wrong it will be destroyed; if it is good they will receive a reward.