Stady Guide In 1 Corinthians

“Studies in I Corinthians” by Paul D. Dugas is a detailed, chapter-by-chapter examination of the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth. The study begins by establishing the historical context: the city of Corinth’s wealth, learning, diverse population, and notorious immorality, particularly surrounding the temple of Venus (Aphrodite). It recounts Paul’s initial ministry there, the challenges he faced preaching “Christ crucified” to both Jews and wisdom-valuing Greeks, and the founding of the church.

The core of the book provides lesson-by-lesson commentary on 1 Corinthians, addressing the specific problems Paul sought to correct: divisions and factions glorying in men (Paul, Apollos, Cephas) rather than Christ; carnality and spiritual immaturity despite the presence of spiritual gifts; gross immorality (incest) and the church’s improper tolerance; believers suing each other in secular courts; issues surrounding marriage, divorce, and singleness; questions about eating meat sacrificed to idols; the regulation and purpose of spiritual gifts (especially tongues and prophecy) emphasizing love (Chapter 13) and order; proper conduct at the Lord’s Supper; and correcting the denial of the bodily resurrection. Throughout the study, Dugas interprets Paul’s instructions on Christian conduct, church discipline, holiness, the roles of men and women (including the significance of hair length), the nature of the ministry, and the ultimate hope found in the resurrection of Christ and believers. The commentary often draws parallels between the sins and challenges faced by Israel in the wilderness and the potential pitfalls for believers.