The term "1 Corinthians" refers to the First Epistle to the Corinthians, a book in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. This epistle was written by the Apostle Paul, with his co-author Sosthenes, to the Christian church in Corinth. It provides insight into the life and challenges of an early Christian community in a major ancient city. The letter addresses issues such as divisions within the church, moral conduct, questions about Christian teaching and practice, and offers guidance on unity, spirituality, and the resurrection of the body. Paul founded the church in Corinth around AD 50, and this letter was likely written during his stay in Ephesus, around AD 53-57, in response to reports of conflicts and moral problems within the Corinthian church. The letter emphasizes unity among believers, the importance of correct doctrine, and living a life reflective of Christian values. In content, 1 Corinthians deals with:
- Disorders and divisions within the community,
- Responses to questions raised by the Corinthians,
- Issues in liturgical assemblies,
- The resurrection,
- And concluding exhortations and greetings.
This letter is considered one of the key texts for understanding early Christian teaching, particularly on topics like the Eucharist and resurrection.
