How does 1 Corinthians 1:1 connect with other Pauline epistles' introductions? Setting the Stage with 1 Corinthians 1:1 “Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,” Shared Building Blocks in Paul’s Openings • Author’s name first—“Paul” • Stated authority—“apostle” (or “servant”/“prisoner”) • Divine origin—“by the will of God” or “by the command of God” • Central figure—“Christ Jesus” always featured • Co-sender or companion named when present • A congregation or individual addressed (appears in v. 2 of 1 Corinthians and most letters) These ingredients reappear so consistently that they form Paul’s signature seal, underscoring the Spirit-given unity of his letters. Quick Side-by-Side Glimpses • Romans 1:1 — “Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, and set apart for the gospel of God—” – “Called” echoes 1 Corinthians 1:1; both stress divine appointment. • 2 Corinthians 1:1 — “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother…” – Same “by the will of God,” but Timothy replaces Sosthenes. • Galatians 1:1 — “Paul, an apostle—sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father—” – Adds a clarifying clause defending apostolic authority. • Ephesians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; 2 Timothy 1:1 — each repeats “apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God.” • Philippians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1 — include multiple co-senders and identify Paul as “servant” instead of “apostle,” tailoring the tone to a healthy church family. • Philemon 1:1 — “Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus…” as a personal appeal, yet still puts Christ first. Why the Repetition Matters • Establishes God-given authority at the outset—readers know the words carry Christ’s own mandate. • Centers every fellowship on Jesus rather than Paul’s personality. • Highlights the continuity of revelation: the same Spirit guiding each congregation. • Models humility—Paul’s role is “called,” “set apart,” or even “prisoner,” not self-appointed. What’s Distinctive about 1 Corinthians 1:1 • Names Sosthenes—a Corinthian synagogue ruler turned believer (Acts 18:17). His inclusion bridges Paul’s authority with a familiar local voice, reinforcing credibility to a divided church. • Uses “called to be an apostle” instead of simply “apostle,” stressing God’s sovereign initiative, a truth the Corinthians needed to remember amid their fascination with human leaders (1 Corinthians 1:12). Living Lessons from the Introductions • Scripture’s openings aren’t formalities; they assert that every word that follows is God-breathed. • God still calls and assigns roles—our identity is received, not achieved. • Ministry is rarely solo work; Paul’s recurring co-senders remind believers to labor side by side. • Rehearsing Christ’s lordship at the start of every task keeps the gospel central and human pride at bay. |
    |