Athey Creek | Audio Podcast

In 2 Corinthians 6-7, Paul reminds the church of their role as ambassadors for Christ and shares how his own trials and troubles empowered him for his ministry. He goes on to explain that while speaking the truth in love through his previous letter was difficult, it ultimately produced genuine repentance and restoration, bringing Paul great joy as he received the good report from Titus.

In 2 Corinthians 7:8-10, Paul explains that while he regretted causing the Corinthians sorrow through a painful letter, he was also glad because it caused them to repent and change their behavior. So just what does repentance truly mean, and how does it differ from mere regret? As we look at examples from both the Old and New Testaments, we learn whose repentance was sincere, see the outcomes of their acknowledgment of sin, and discover why love is the key.

In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul presents a series of “we” statements that describe the confidence believers have in their future hope, their calling to good works that please the Lord, and the motivation they should have to share Christ with others. Compelled by his love for Christ, Paul encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective and faithfully carry the message of reconciliation to the world.

In 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Paul warns the Corinthian church against allowing the values and narratives of the world to shape their theology. Sadly, this struggle remains as relevant today as it was then. As we study this passage, we see how Paul’s call to avoid mixing the world with the church echoes throughout Scripture, why this matters in God’s economy, and where believers are most vulnerable to allowing contrary worldviews to creep in.

In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul encourages the Corinthian church to faithfully shine the light of Jesus with sincerity and boldness so that the eyes of those living in spiritual blindness may be opened. Using his own suffering as an example, Paul shows how God brings life through affliction, provides inward renewal despite outward trouble, and calls believers to maintain an eternal perspective amid suffering.

Almost everyone will wonder at some point, “What makes me valuable?” In 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul answers this as he reveals who we truly are apart from Christ, what God desires to do with our lives as we submit to His shaping, and how the light of Christ within us gives purpose, endurance, and lasting value in trials and tribulation.

In 2 Corinthians 3, Paul reminds the Corinthian church that his credentials for ministry come from God and the evidence is found in their transformed lives and spiritual fruit. He goes on to contrast the law with the Spirit, showing how their glory manifests differently over time and how the New Covenant brings life, freedom, and an ever-increasing radiance as believers are transformed into the likeness of Christ.

As Paul explains to the church at Corinth why he wrote a painful letter rather than visiting them in person in 2 Corinthians 2, we see that his defense reflects a loving and compassionate approach to ministry. Through his example, Paul teaches us how to speak truth in love, why forgiveness is essential when repentance is genuine, and how following God’s Word in faith leads to a triumphal victory in Christ.

As we begin Paul’s follow-up letter to the Corinthians, we find that not much has changed within their church, as they continue to question Paul’s authority, openly rebel, and level criticisms against him. Yet, he responds as lovingly as possible in 2 Corinthians 1 by reminding them of God’s love, demonstrating his own sincerity in writing to them, and explaining why their accusations lack substance.

When the Corinthian church accuses Paul of changing his travel plans, he seizes the opportunity to remind them of the faithfulness of God’s promises. As we study his teaching in 2 Corinthians 1:20, we learn about the conditions of God’s promises, how to tap into the fullness of their benefits, and why they are entirely trustworthy.

As we wrap up 2025, we also bring our study of Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church to a close by reflecting on his final words in 1 Corinthians 16. From guidance on giving and ministry to personal plans and final exhortations for Christian living, Paul leaves the church with a reminder of God’s grace and love that we can carry with us into the new year.

In one of the most theologically significant chapters in the Bible, Paul lays out the Gospel message by declaring that salvation is only possible through Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection – a concept that the Corinthian church still struggled to grasp. As we study his message in 1 Corinthians 15, we learn about the power and absolute necessity of the resurrection, see why it is one of the most provable events in history, and discover what it means for us as we face our own death.

Paul introduces a new topic to the church at Corinth in 1 Corinthians 15:50-53 by speaking of a future event known as the Rapture – a subject that continues to cause great debate, confusion, and controversy to this day. As we explore this topic, we clarify what the Rapture entails, address key questions and disagreements surrounding it, and examine how it is supported throughout Scripture.

Church services in Corinth had devolved into chaos with people speaking in tongues without interpretation, talking over one another, and abandoning any sense of order. As Paul steps in to correct these practices in 1 Corinthians 14, we learn why structure in worship is essential and how we can ensure our own churches operate in a manner that benefits the body of Christ and reaches unbelievers.

As one of the most famous, poetic, and frequently quoted passages in the Bible, 1 Corinthians 13 teaches us about the greatest spiritual gift believers can pursue. As we delve deeper into “The Love Chapter,” we learn what this truly means, how we can put it into practice, and who our ultimate example is to follow.

Paul begins his teaching on spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12 by explaining the diverse ways God works through His people to bring unity and order within the church. As we study this passage, we learn about the Holy Spirit’s role in distributing the gifts, define the ones Paul lists, and examine some of the differing viewpoints that arise in the church today.

One of the problems Paul had to address in the Corinthian church was their limited understanding of how the body of Christ was meant to function together to form a healthy and unified church. In 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, he provides a spiritual anatomy lesson that helps us examine our own calling within the body of Christ and how we can contribute to keeping all members functioning as God intended.

The issues of head coverings, hairstyles, and gender roles seem just as controversial today as they were in the Corinthian church. As Paul addresses these concerns in 1 Corinthians 11:1-16, we learn how to discern the difference between tradition, culture, and Scriptural mandates, see God’s unique design and purpose for men and women, and are reminded that what we display outwardly often reflects what’s happening within our hearts.

Paul continues to address issues in the Corinthian church by confronting their improper behavior during communion. As he guides them on how to properly partake of the Lord’s Supper in 1 Corinthians 11:17-34, we learn the purpose behind this practice, how to approach it with reverence, and how to avoid the same mistakes the Corinthians were making.

Paul continues to help the Corinthian church understand the lines between legalism, liberty, and love in 1 Corinthians 10 by drawing upon examples from the Old Testament. As we look at the ways the Israelites erred while fleeing Egypt and journeying toward the Promised Land, we are warned to turn from immorality, idolatry, and ingratitude and instead pursue God’s glory and love others in all that we do.

In 1 Corinthians 10:31, Paul charges us to do everything for the glory of God. As we examine the reasons to heed his words, we see the benefits we are blessed with and the protection we receive when we honor Him instead of boasting in ourselves.

Paul tackles another controversy in the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 9 – and this time, he’s directly affected by their debate. As Paul explains why those in ministry should have the right to be financially supported, why he is willing to forgo wages from them, and what ultimately mattered most to him, we see a model for the modern-day church when it comes to compensating those serving in ministry.

The Corinthian church faced a major controversy about whether it was acceptable to eat meat sacrificed to idols, and Paul provides guidance on how they should handle it in 1 Corinthians 8. So why should we study an issue that was so specific to their situation, time, and culture? Because the principle behind it still applies, and Paul’s answer helps us navigate the many gray areas in our own society and discern what we should and shouldn’t do as Christians.

The Corinthian church had many questions about singleness, marriage, divorce, and remarriage, which Paul addresses in 1 Corinthians 7:10-40. As we listen to his answers, we step back to gain a comprehensive biblical understanding of God’s design for marital relationships and learn how to properly apply Scripture as we address these issues in our own day.

In 1 Corinthians 6:1-7:9, Paul continues to address the problems within the Corinthian church – many of which remain all too familiar among modern Christians. As he confronts matters such as lawsuits, sexual immorality, marriage and singleness, we see God’s design for how these should be handled and the consequences when we insist on doing things our own way.

Does Paul’s statement that “all things are lawful” in 1 Corinthians 6:12 mean we have the freedom to do whatever we want? While it might sound that way at first, as we unpack Paul’s argument, we discover what boundaries guard this statement, how this topic develops throughout Scripture, and how our liberty should be used to glorify God.

Paul begins to address the central issue of his letter in 1 Corinthians 5 as he directly confronts the serious problems within the Corinthian church. As he calls out a man willfully living in shocking sexual sin, Paul provides a blueprint for how the church should confront sin, when discipline is necessary, and how believers should respond to those living in blatant, unrepentant sin.

The Corinthian church had a serious problem with sexual immorality to the point that they were no longer even ashamed, but proud of it. Sadly, not much has changed since Paul had to confront them with the urgent command to “flee fornication” in 1 Corinthians 6:18. As we see why sexual immorality is so destructive, we discover how we can put Paul’s charge into action ourselves and how mercy and forgiveness can be found in the midst of sin.

In 1 Corinthians 4, Paul confronts some of the major issues within the Corinthian church as he seeks to correct their divisions over favorite leaders, their tendency to judge by wrong standards, and their prideful hearts. Through a blend of sarcasm, tenderness, and hard truth, Paul points them back to what God cares about and shows them how to view their leaders, their church, and their conduct towards others in light of the Gospel.

Paul’s sole focus was on faithfully carrying out what God had called him to do: preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As Paul shares his mindset about his mission in 1 Corinthians 4:1-2, we pause to examine what God has called us to do personally and whether we are fulfilling our ministry faithfully with the single purpose of pleasing God.

The church at Corinth thought they were wise because they were worldly, yet they were spiritually immature and failing to build upon the right foundation. As Paul seeks to correct these deficiencies in 1 Corinthians 3, he lays out a roadmap for how they can grow into maturity, build wisely, and bear eternal fruit by keeping Christ at the center.

Just as a physical house must be built on a solid foundation with sound materials, Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 3:9-15 that the same principles apply to how we live our lives. As we consider Paul’s life building plan, we see what is essential for a firm foundation, how to gain the wisdom to build with lasting materials, and why what we do in this life will matter so much in eternity.

The Corinthian church had failed to grow in spiritual maturity and was embracing the world’s “wisdom” by adopting a worldview contrary to God’s Word. However, Paul provides the remedy in 1 Corinthians 2 by calling them to follow the wisdom of God, which comes through studying the Word, walking in the Spirit, and being rooted in the power of Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

Flashy stage productions, catchy viral soundbites, and attempts to stay relevant through pop culture are commonplace in many churches today. Though the methods were different in his day, Paul had to warn the Corinthian church in 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 about these same issues, reminding them that true faith is not built on spectacle, eloquence, or popularity, but on Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

After his initial greetings, Paul opens his letter to the church at Corinth by reminding them of God’s grace, the unity believers share, and the call to boast only in Christ. As we study Paul’s introduction in 1 Corinthians 1, the scene is set for us to see the challenges facing their church and how these same issues parallel the church in our own day.

First Corinthians 1:18–21 reminds us that the message of the cross seems foolish to the world, yet to those who believe it is the power and wisdom of God. This sharp contrast calls us to consider how we live out our faith, convey our convictions, and speak the truth in love to unbelievers.

Paul closes his letter to the Roman church by greeting notable believers and sharing final words of warning and encouragement. As we study this in Romans 16, we see who Paul highlights, what we can learn from their inclusion in this list, and join him in giving glory to God for His wonderful grace.

Knowing the Christians in Rome were about to face a time of great trouble, Paul offers them an encouraging reminder in Romans 16:17-20 to stand firm against evil, pursue what is good, and rest in the assurance of God’s ultimate final victory. As we continue to feel the effects of the horrific assassination of Charlie Kirk and experience our own evil days, may Paul’s words echo in our hearts and strengthen us to shine the light of Jesus in an ever-darkening world.

As Christians, we are called to love one another, build each other up in Christ, and glorify God in unity. In Romans 15, Paul expands on these commands and then begins to close his letter by showing how he has lived them out in his ministry and how he plans to continue doing so in his visit to Rome.

With countless religions, denominations, and beliefs, there are times when we must separate from those who deny essential doctrines or promote blatant false teaching. But when it comes to non-essentials, we are to put away quarrels, division, and hostility and instead choose to follow Paul's exhortation in Romans 15:5-7 to be like-minded in Christ, to love one another, and to glorify God as one.

Gray areas, non-essential doctrines, and lifestyle choices often stir up debate within the church today – sometimes leading to unnecessary conflict and division. In Romans 14, Paul gives us guidance for navigating these issues in accordance with the law, our liberty in Christ, and love for our Christian brothers and sisters.

The propensity to judge others — while not wanting to be judged ourselves — is just as prevalent today as it was in Paul’s day. In Romans 14:10-13, Paul addresses this issue by showing us why we should stop judging others, what we should actually be judging, and why our focus should be on the coming judgment that belongs to Jesus Christ alone.

Paul wraps up his checklist on how to live as Christians in Romans 12:12-13:14 by presenting practical behaviors we should display in our daily lives. From how we treat others and handle evil, to how we submit to authority, Paul’s words help us measure how we are reflecting Jesus Christ in a dark world.

After reminding us that time is of the essence, Paul urges us to wake up, cast off the works of darkness, and put on the light of Christ. As we study his practical and profound words in Romans 13:11-14, we learn what it looks like to resist the spiritual snooze button, walk in purity, and reflect the light of Christ in an increasingly dark world.

In Romans 12:9-12, Paul gives us a checklist of what it looks like to live as Christians. As we walk through his lineup of godly behaviors, we’re challenged to consider how well we are loving others, rejecting what is evil, and living in ways that reflect Jesus in our daily lives.

Evil is a real and destructive force in our lives, communities, and the world that we must overcome or risk being overcome by it. In Romans 12:21, Paul gives us the key to overcoming evil, and we learn specific tactics from Scripture to put this charge into action.

In Romans 12:3-8, Paul calls us to live with humility and remember that we are all part of the body of Christ. In this unity, God has uniquely gifted each of us to serve Him and one another. As we explore these verses, we discover what these gifts are, where they appear elsewhere in Scripture, and how God works through each one to build up His Church.

After firmly establishing what we must do to be saved, Paul turns to what we should do as a result. As we study Paul’s directive for daily Christian living in Romans 12:1-2, we see how to surrender every area of our lives to God, stand firm against the world’s pull toward sin, and rely on Him to give us what we need according to His perfect will.

Paul continues his argument in Romans 11 that God isn’t finished with the Jews by presenting evidence to make his case. As Paul speaks about the remnant, the grafting of branches, and the dispensations of the Jews and Gentiles, we’re reminded of God’s mercy and that His wisdom is far beyond our understanding.

Paul tells us in Romans 10:17 that faith comes by hearing the Word of God. But what does it really mean to have faith, and what does that look like in our everyday lives? As we study this verse, we discover the role faith plays in our salvation, how it should impact our daily walk with the Lord, and how we can cultivate it through God’s Word.