What does 1 Corinthians 1:1 mean?

Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 1 Corinthians 1:1

Explanation

The verse 1 Corinthians 1:1 serves as the opening salutation of the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church. This verse introduces the author of the letter, Paul himself, and specifies his role as an apostle. An apostle is one who is sent out and given authority to speak and act on behalf of someone else, in this case, Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that his calling as an apostle is not of his own accord or through human agency, but “through the will of God,” underlining divine authority and purpose behind his mission.

Additionally, Paul mentions Sosthenes as “our brother.” While not much is known about Sosthenes, his inclusion may suggest a co-authorship or support for Paul’s message to the Christian community in Corinth. The use of “our brother” also reflects the close-knit nature of the early Christian communities where members would refer to each other as siblings in a spiritual family.

Historical Context

The First Letter to the Corinthians was likely written by Paul in the mid-50s AD, from Ephesus during his third missionary journey. Corinth was a major city of Greece during the Roman Empire, known for its wealth, commerce, and diversity of people and religions. It was also infamous for its moral corruption. The church in Corinth was established by Paul during his second missionary journey but had encountered numerous issues, such as divisions among church members, immorality, and theological confusion.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, the verse underscores the concept of divine calling. Paul’s apostleship is not self-proclaimed but established by God’s will. This implies that ministry and spiritual leadership in the Christian context are not based on personal ambition but on God’s calling and empowerment.

Additionally, by acknowledging Sosthenes as a brother, Paul touches upon the theological idea of the universal family of believers, irrespective of their social or cultural backgrounds. This suggests an inherent equality and unity within the Christian faith.

Practical Applications

In terms of practical applications, this verse can inspire individuals to consider their own vocations and the importance of discerning and following God’s will in their lives. It teaches that occupations and roles, especially within the church, should be approached with the understanding that God has a purpose for each person’s life.

The mention of Sosthenes can encourage inclusivity and camaraderie within Christian communities and beyond. It can remind people of the importance of recognizing and respecting fellow believers as members of a broader spiritual family.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 4:11 (KJV): “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;”
• Romans 1:1 (KJV): “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,”
• Galatians 1:1 (KJV): “Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)”

Language Study

In the original Greek, “Paulos” refers to Paul, the author of the letter. “Apostolos” translates to “apostle” and refers to one who is sent out with authority. The phrase “diā thelēmatos Theou” means “through the will of God,” indicating divine initiative in Paul’s apostleship. “Sōsthenēs ho adelphos” identifies Sosthenes as “the brother,” implying a spiritual bond within the Christian community.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In various ancient cultures, there were concepts of individuals chosen by the divine for special purposes, like prophets or oracles. However, the Christian idea of apostleship as presented in 1 Corinthians is distinct in its emphasis on being called by the will of a monotheistic God, preaching a message centered on the gospel of Jesus Christ, and fostering a spiritual kinship among believers.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse itself does not directly relate to scientific perspectives. However, modern scholarship in fields such as sociology and psychology might explore the social dynamics of religious groups and what compels individuals to accept and follow religious leadership, as well as the psychological experience of feeling “called” to a specific life purpose.

commentaries

Various Biblical scholars have commented on 1 Corinthians 1:1. Many agree on the importance of Paul’s apostolic authority being rooted in God’s will, which set a precedent for validating authentic Christian ministry. They also acknowledge the communal aspect visible in the inclusion of Sosthenes, though his role in the Corinthian church is less certain. Commentaries may delve into the implications of apostolic teaching for church order, the resolution of doctrinal disputes, and ethical living according to early Christian expectations.