Final Instructions

1 Corinthians 16

Study 16

 

What is the reputation of the apostle Paul as his name comes up in conversation today?  Some consider him a crusty theologian.  Others think he had only a subservient place for women in the church.  Now that you have come to the end of Paul’s letter to a church with great problems, how does he impress you as a person?  Would you like to have him visit your church?  In this chapter look beyond the apostle’s doctrine to his relationships with a variety of people.

 

  1. When you give money, do you prefer to plan ahead or to give spontaneously, and why?

 

 

 

 

Read 1 Corinthians 16.

 

  1. What procedure does Paul give regarding the collection of funds for God’s people (verses 1-4)?

 

 

 

 

  1. What principle of giving is suggested in verse 2a?  How should we apply it today?

 

 

 

 

  1. How do Paul’s plans in verses 5-7 reflect his concern for the Corinthians?

 

 

 

 

  1. Can you share from your won experience in the service of Christ the combination of opportunity and opposition that Paul faced in Ephesus (verses 8-9)?

 

 

 

 

  1. How do the apostle’s instructions about Timothy’s visit reflect his attitude toward the younger colleague in verses 10-11?

 

 

 

  1. In verse 12, what light does Paul’s comment about Apollos shed on the way the apostle’s authority was exercised and received by others?

 

 

 

 

  1. Put in your own words each command in verses 13-14.  Which one specifically applies to a current situation in your own life?

 

 

 

 

  1. What kind of ministry do you think Stephanas and the other men had to Paul (verses 15-18)?

 

 

 

 

How should we follow their example in our attitude toward people in Christian ministries today?

 

 

 

 

  1. How would you describe the tone of the greetings conveyed to the Corinthians in verses 19-21?  Why do you think Paul speaks so strongly in verse 22?

 

 

 

 

  1. In what practical ways can we experience and share the grace and love of the Lord Jesus Christ?  Give some examples from your own experience.

 

 

 

 

  1. Think back over this letter of Paul’s.  What one teaching has most challenged and helped you?  Summarize it in a sentence.  Share your comments and then pray together, asking God to reinforce these truths as you live them out.