SERIES: ADDRESSING THE ISSUES (1 OF 4)

NOTE: This sermon is part 1 and 2 of a 9 part sermon series. Two sermons outlines are included in this download.

PREVIEWS:

Part 1: Divisions in the Church
Series: Addressing The Issues
Stuart Briscoe
1 Corinthians 1:1-4:21

In his introduction, Paul outlines his high view of the church, (e.g. "church of God," "sanctified," "called," "brothers") but he knows all is not well at Corinth. Performance is falling short of profession. Divisiveness in the fellowship is a particular problem. How he deals with it is important.

I. Admit the Problem. 1:10-17

A. The seriousness of the problem.
1. "No doubt there have to be differences." 11:19; 12:4-6

2. "There are quarrels." 1:11

3. "That there be no divisions." 1:10

B. The symptoms of the problem.
1. The profession of principle. (Prejudice, preference?)
a. Traditionalism-Paul?

b. Intellectualism-Apollos?

c. Conservatism-Cephas?

d. Elitism-Christ?

2. The promotion of personality.

3. The possibility of parties. "I follow…"

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Part 2: Church Discipline
Series: Addressing The Issues
Stuart Briscoe
1 Corinthians 5:1-13

"Church discipline" is not in the top ten of most people's favorite topics! It conjures up unpleasant thoughts. But let's see what Paul said about it.

I. Behavior that Deserves Condemnation. vv. 1-5

A. Immoral behavior in the church. v. 1
1. "Porneia"-sin to Jews and Christians-fact of life to ancients.

2. But even pagans drew the line at this behavior!

B. Improper response by the church. v. 2
1. A display of arrogance.
a. Exaggerated "liberty."

b. "Puffed up" knowledge.

2. An absence of grieving.
a. Inadequate grasp of the holiness of God.

b. Insufficient insight into the sinfulness of sin.

3. A failure to act.
a. For the name of Christ.

b. For the sake of the fellowship.