Love Builds Up: Introduction (David Lyon)

Launching our new focus for Autumn-Winter, we consider the background, context and purpose of Paul’s first epistle to the church in Corinth, before looking in a bit more detail at how the apostle begins his letter (1 Corinthians 1:1-9).  Here we see that he starts by reminding the church who they really are - "God’s church in Corinth" - men and women called-out of the culture of the city in order to live-out a radically different life and lifestyle.  They are God’s planting in that place - a charismatic Kingdom community, set in the midst of a culture that lives for itself.  With its many parallels to our 21st Century challenges and opportunities, we see that - like us - they really matter, and have all that they need as they stand-up for Jesus Christ and prepare the way for His return!  Paul’s great longing is to see this church grow strong and fulfil their destiny, and he has much to say that will help us do the same!...