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 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.

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 warns the church about people coming in and causing division by false teaching or false motives. More of his colleagues and friends are mentioned.

Jesus speaks into the Jewish culture of swearing oaths and opposes it. Christians should not need to add to their words. A yes is yes and a no is no.