What about the wisdom he was talking about in 2:6? Does he ever explain it? Why or why not?

1 Cor 4

What happens to food if you don't eat it?

What happens to you if you don't eat?

Was it a matter of not eating, or not swallowing or not digesting? According to the principle of growth we've seen how would one grow the fastest--eat lots. What beliefs might cause one to hoard food? Money? How must one treat the riches of Christ in order to receive more? Can you hoard such riches? What happens to them if you do? What about being kings, reaching the top? How do you keep from growing static? humble yourself, and God will lift you up, but if you think you are at the top, He cannot lift you any higher. This is the "kingdom" of God, it is built on humility, not self-aggrandizement.

How would you feel if you were there in Corinth when this was read?

In the light of the hunger principle, why is Paul so harsh with them and sarcastic? according to verse 14? Is he angry and trying to get revenge or humiliate them?

To warn them.

What are some other things Paul talks about here that were hindering their spiritual growth?

Arrogance, talking without power,

What does he suggest is the way to get beyond these limitations?

Imitate him--in context what list of things does this imitation refer to?

When cursed, bless; consider yourself honored if dishonored; be weak to be strong; foolish to be wise; when slandered, answer kindly;

What advantage does he suggest becoming weak has given him? Power, those who talk of being strong and wise cannot withstand the power of weakness? Why not?

1 Cor 5:

What principle of spiritual growth is coming out here? How do we know this is connected with their spiritual growth? BOASTING! They were boasting about how wise and mature they were, but this is evidence that they are not!

1 Cor 6: More evidence that they are immature, lawsuits!

Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit? What is his message? Is he warning them that since they are the wicked, they won't be in heaven? What is the kingdom of God? (love, humility) So is he talking about punishments and rewards? What motivation does he give for being pure? You are the dwelling place of God. You are not your own. You were bought with a price. Honor the God in your body.

(readers' theater: "The Visitor".)

Paul knows these people. He knows they were converted in their hearts, he assumes their sincerity and does not question their overall motives, but keeps driving them back to the reasons they were converted. God is good! and their gratitude as reasons for obedience, not fear of punishment and reward.