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 teaches that church leadership was not like worldly leadership - it was one of servanthood. Paul was a spiritual father to the church at Corinth. He was very emotional at this point.

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.

In Corinth, Aphrodite - the goddess of fertility - was worshipped. Paul explained that to join with prostitutes would have a spiritual effect. As Christians, our bodies belong to the Lord.

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’s principle for Christian discipleship is to accept the circumstances you are in rather than seek to change them - even if they are difficult. God can use you in those circumstances. He applies this to relationships, circumcision and slavery.

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.