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.

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 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.

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.

Paul challenges the Galatians to remember the gospel of justification by faith in Jesus that he preached to them. He reminds them of their forefather Abraham who came before Moses and had faith

Following the general statements of the last episode, Paul gives detailed teaching about the practicalities of serving God. It should be done with humility, faith and love. He lists several gifts of the Holy spirit to build up the church.