The
Corinthian church contained some Jews, but more Gentiles, and the apostle had
to contend with the superstition of the one, and the sinful conduct of the
other. The peace of this church was disturbed by false teachers, who undermined
the influence of the apostle. Two parties were the result; one contending
earnestly for the Jewish ceremonies, the other indulging in excesses contrary
to the gospel, to which they were especially led by the luxury and the sins
which prevailed around them. This epistle was written to rebuke some disorderly
conduct, of which the apostle had been apprized, and to give advice as to some
points whereon his judgment was requested by the Corinthians. Thus the scope
was twofold. 1. To apply suitable remedies to the disorders and abuses which
prevailed among them. 2. To give satisfactory answers on all the points upon
which his advice had been desired. The address, and Christian mildness, yet
firmness, with which the apostle writes, and goes on from general truths
directly to oppose the errors and evil conduct of the Corinthians, is very
remarkable. He states the truth and the will of God, as to various matters,
with great force of argument and animation of style.
Excerpt from:
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible
Matthew Henry (1662 - 1714)
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