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 addresses cultural problems that arise in the Corinthian church. Head covering was a symbol of marriage, and the length of hair was important to that culture. Paul refers to Genesis 2 as a basis for understanding Christian marriage.

There were many divisions in the Corinthian church which became obvious at their celebration of the Lord’s Supper. Paul addressed this by referring back to how Jesus set up the sacrament of Communion.

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.

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 addresses an argument between two women in the church and encourages them to resolve the issue. Worship is highlighted. He mentions the need to meet conflict and anxiety with prayer.

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

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.

Paul continues to speak practically about how to live the Christian life. He encourages the believer to put off the old life and put on the new. Jesus is the supreme example - what would He do? Thanksgiving is a major part of spiritual warfare and living in the power of the Holy Spirit.