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.

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 explained his method of reaching all the people he met in his mission to the Gentiles. He identified with them so he could preach the gospel to them. Paul described the Christian life as a race with a prize at the end - eternal life.

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.

Paul is concerned to correct the practice of using the gifts unhelpfully that existed in the Corinthian church. He highlights here the gifts of prophecy, speaking in tongues and the interpretation of tongues.

Paul gives a practical framework to encourage orderly worship that incorporates the unplanned interaction of god through the gifts of prophecy and speaking in tongues.

Paul particularly mentions Timothy and Epaphroditus among his team of workers. They had important supporting roles for his ministry.

Early Church worship is explained. The need to live out the Christian life every day is encouraged, including being ‘blameless’ and not arguing.

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’s teaching on marriage was challenging to the Christians in Ephesus. The husband must imitate Christ and his servant leadership. The wife could then respect and submit to that leadership.