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 explains the gospel which is for all as everyone is a slave to sin. The gospel transforms lives and changes the eternal destination of those who believe. Paul challenges all Christians to be concerned for those outside the Kingdom and to be God’s ambassadors.

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.

This is the earliest recorded account of the resurrection of Jesus, given by Peter to Paul and now given by Paul to the Corinthian church to give them hope. These are the historical facts.

Having outlined the historical fact of the resurrection, Paul now explains the importsnce of the resurrection for the Christian faith and how those who are saved will also be raised back to life.

This passage is known as the “Philippian Hymn'. Paul urges the believers to think about Jesus and to copy his example of humility and love.

The leadership of a church is very important. It includes apostles, pastors and teachers, evangelists and prophets. All are under the authority of the original Apostles through Scripture.

Paul introduces the reality of spiritual warfare that every Christian faces together with the resources that God provides to fight against the enemy. Roman soldiers are guarding him and he uses their armour to explain these resources.

Paul explains that salvation means that God’s Holy Spirit comes into your life bringing the same power that raised Jesus from the dead and placed him at the right hand of the Father with all that that implies.

Paul explains the serious situation of those who do not believe - they are dead, separated from God. He balances this with the good news of grace shown by Jesus' death on the cross. Faith is all that is required.