Please take advantage of our 1st Corinthians 12-14 Tool Kit with additional resources for further learning.

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.

• How much should our understanding of this text be restricted to the specific context of Corinth and the Corinthian church in Paul’s day? Why? 
• Is there any relationship to this text and Paul’s words in 11:1-16? How? 
• Jesus clearly promoted and blessed women in His earthly ministry, beyond what would have been culturally acceptable at the time. How might Paul seem to depart from this example with this text and others, like 1 Timothy 2:9-15? Does Paul really differ from Jesus? 
• How might the roles of Phoebe in Romans 16:1 and Priscilla in Acts 18:26-28 help us more fully understand Paul’s stance on gifted women in leadership? (The first is a deaconess/servant and the second is clearly a teacher)
• How can women - to which any of the gifts of the Holy Spirit are fully available - be promoted to full flourishing in the local church? To what roles in the local church might they be restricted? Why? (With biblical explanation)

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.