Introducing the 2026-2027 PW/Horizons Bible Study By Rhonda Mawhood Lee Suggestions for Leaders by Sarah Leer United Through Christ, Bound to Each Other Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians Although First Corinthians contains familiar theology and passages we easily recognize-like the words of institution for the Lord's Supper and the meditation on love-readers often don't realize that Paul wrote this letter to a church in conflict. Paul founded the congregation in Corinth around the year 50 and later moved to Ephesus, a few hundred miles away. From there Paul wrote a letter to the Corinthians trying to help settle their disputes. He saw that the church was lacking in love, and their conflicts were betraying God's saving act in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. The church in Corinth was diverse, and it was easy for factions to form. In his letter, Paul called his siblings in faith to a loving unity rooted in the reality that Jesus Christ had been crucified and resurrected for everyone. Christians throughout the ages have recognized the Holy Spirit's influence on Paul's words of unity and love, especially during times of conflict. Paul wrote at a time when Christians expected Jesus' imminent return, and he challenged all to be ready when that day came. Today the church is still waiting, still affirming that Jesus will return, and still proclaiming that this world has already been transformed by God's life-giving love. This Bible study challenges us to trust in Christ's saving love and to demonstrate that love by the way we live.
So excited to unveil my next publication, coming next spring: the #Horizons #BibleStudy. Many thanks to Presbyterian Women for inviting me to write this! #FirstCorinthians was such a rich letter to study; I hope other Christians of many denominations find this work helpful.🕯
