Please take advantage of our 1st Corinthians 5-7 Tool Kit containing a deep dive study on marriage, sexuality and gender, and additional resources for further learning, including a powerful feature film gifted to Reach just for this series.
Discussion Questions
Before discussing in Groups, DNAs, mentorship and other gospel conversations around First Corinthians, consider the three different sources of engaging questions described at the bottom of this page. This will help lead to inspiring conversation and discussion instead of simple ‘yes’ and ‘no’ answers.
- What does it specifically mean to “inherit the Kingdom of God?” What does it mean that in this text, inheritance is clearly based on works?
- The Old and New Testament reveal a critical distinction in two kinds of our inheritance. One can be called our “birth inheritance,” fully true for every believer, based on faith. See Galatians 3:22-4:7. The second can be called our “reward inheritance,” accessed by holiness, obedience and perseverance in good deeds. Read Colossians 3:22-25 and Galatians 5:19-21. To which kind of inheritance does this text belong? Why?
- Of the specific actions and attitudes listed, why do you suppose Paul chose to list these specific ones? All are seen in a negative light. All are implicitly characterized as sin. What do you personally make of the reference to homosexuality?
- Reread verse 11. Notice the verb tense: “Such were some of you…” Also in the past, as completed actions, are the ideas of washed, sanctified and justified. How does this text speak to what happened at the moment of salvation? What does it say about our identity in Christ?
- Can you see the trinity represented at the end of verse 11? How is the triune character of God (three persons in one essence; one God) relevant to Paul’s argument?
Discussion Format Suggestions
First, consider some simple, regular, thought-provoking opening questions to get the group discussions started. Try these on for fit:
- So, as we begin, where and How did you sense God’s Presence this week?
- What is the state of the key relationships in your life right now?
- What were your biggest challenges? Biggest blessings?
- What are you most grateful for right now?
Second, you can continue the discussion by honing in on the specific passage of First Corinthians that we’ve just studied on Sunday, or that you just read and studied together. You can engage some or all of the questions organized above for each of the passages. It’s always a good idea to read the particular passage again in the group discussion.
Thirdly, please feel free to add your own questions as a result of your study and prayer through First Corinthians. You are the leader. Lead. Shepherd your people closer to Jesus.