1 Corinthians 1:2
Verse
Context
Greetings from Paul and Sosthenes
1Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,2To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Church of God which is at Corinth - This Church was planted by the apostle himself about a.d. 52, as we learn from Act 18:1 (note), etc. Sanctified in Christ Jesus - Ἡγιασμενοις, Separated from the corruptions of their place and age. Called to be saints - Κλητοις ἁγιοις, Constituted saints, or invited to become such; this was the design of the Gospel, for Jesus Christ came to save men from their sins. With all that in every place, etc. - All who profess Christianity, both in Corinth, Ephesus, and other parts of Greece or Asia Minor; and by this we see that the apostle intended that this epistle should be a general property of the universal Church of Christ; though there are several matters in it that are suited to the state of the Corinthians only. Both theirs and ours - That is, Jesus Christ is the common Lord and Savior of all. He is the exclusive property of no one Church, or people, or nation. Calling on or invoking the name of the Lord Jesus, was the proper distinguishing mark of a Christian. In those times of apostolic light and purity no man attempted to invoke God but in the name of Jesus Christ; this is what genuine Christians still mean when they ask any thing from God for Christ's Sake.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the church of God--He calls it so notwithstanding its many blots. Fanatics and sectaries vainly think to anticipate the final sifting of the wheat and tares (Mat 13:27-30). It is a dangerous temptation to think there is no church where there is not apparent perfect purity. He who thinks so, must at last separate from all others and think himself the only holy man in the world, or establish a peculiar sect with a few hypocrites. It was enough for Paul in recognizing the Corinthians as a church, that he saw among them evangelical doctrine, baptism, and the Lord's Supper" [CALVIN]. It was the Church of God, not of this or of that favorite leader [CHRYSOSTOM]. at Corinth--a church at dissolute Corinth--what a paradox of grace! sanctified--consecrated, or set apart as holy to God in (by union with) Christ Jesus. In the Greek there are no words "to them that are"; translate simply, "men sanctified." called to be saints--rather, "called saints"; saints by calling: applied by Paul to all professing members of the Church. As "sanctified in Christ" implies the fountain sources of holiness, the believer's original sanctification in Christ (Co1 6:11; Heb 10:10, Heb 10:14; Pe1 1:2) in the purposes of God's grace, so "called saints" refers to their actual call (Rom 8:30), and the end of that call that they should be holy (Pe1 1:15). with all that in every place call upon . . . Christ--The Epistle is intended for these also, as well as for the Corinthians. The true CATHOLIC CHURCH (a term first used by IGNATIUS [Epistle to the SmyrÃ&brvbrans, 8]): not consisting of those who call themselves from Paul, Cephas, or any other eminent leader (Co1 1:12), but of all, wherever they be, who call on Jesus as their Saviour in sincerity (compare Ti2 2:22). Still a general unity of discipline and doctrine in the several churches is implied in Co1 4:17; Co1 7:17; 11-16; 14-33, 36. The worship due to God is here attributed to Jesus (compare Joe 2:32; Mat 4:10; Act 9:14). both theirs and ours--"in every place which is their home . . . and our home also"; this is added to include the Christians throughout Achaia, not residing in Corinth, the capital (Co2 1:1). Paul feels the home of his converts to be also his own. Compare a similar phrase in Rom 16:13 [CONYBEARE and HOWSON]. "Ours" refers to Paul and Sosthenes, and the Corinthians' home [ALFORD]. BEZA better explains, "Both their Lord and our Lord." All believers have one and the same Lord (Co1 8:6; Eph 4:5); a virtual reproof of the divisions of the Corinthians, as if Christ were divided (Co1 1:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Unto the church of God which is at Corinth,.... This epistle is inscribed to the saints at Corinth; who are described by their being "the church of God", a particular congregated church; a number of persons gathered out of the world, and joined together in holy fellowship, carrying on the worship of God together, and walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord; a very high character this, to be called the church of God, which is the pillar and ground of truth: and it may be observed, that this is here given to a people, among whom were many irregularities, errors, disorders, and divisions; which shows, that a church of God is not to be unchurched for everything that is amiss in them: they are further described by the place of their abode, Corinth, the "metropolis" of Achaia; a very large and opulent city, a place of great trade and commerce, and famous both for its wealth and wisdom; but not so famous for anything as this, that there was a church of Christ in it; of the city of Corinth; see Gill on Act 18:1; and of the church; see Gill on Act 18:8. The members of it in general, for it cannot be thought to hold good of every individual, are said to be sanctified in Christ Jesus; not by baptism, for they were sanctified before that; but were set apart, or chosen in Christ from all eternity, to grace here, and glory hereafter; justified by the blood and righteousness of Christ, in which sense the word "sanctified" is sometimes used; and to whom Christ was made "sanctification" and righteousness; and in consequence of which they were sanctified by his Spirit in his name, out of that fulness of grace and holiness which is in him: wherefore it follows, called to be saints; for though they were chosen to holiness in Christ, and through sanctification of the Spirit unto salvation, yet before calling were unholy; though Christ had given himself for them to sanctify and purify them, yet whilst uncalled were impure; they fell in Adam, and became both guilty and filthy through his transgression; and by their first birth were unholy and unclean, and were so in their lives and conversations; nor are any holy by natural descent: these were not born saints, nor made so by their own free will, but were become such through the powerful grace of God in the effectual calling; in which not only desires after holiness, but principles of holiness were wrought in them; and by which they were called to the practice of external holiness, or to live an holy life and conversation. And this epistle is not only inscribed to these saints at Corinth, but to them, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord; as in Corinth, so in any part of Achaia, of which Corinth was the chief city. Invocation of the name of Christ not only respects prayer to him, but includes the whole of religious worship: see Rom 10:13; and this being given to Christ, and perforated in his name, is a very considerable proof of his true and proper deity; and the Ethiopic version here styles him, "God, our Lord Jesus Christ"; for none but God is to be invoked; nor can any but a divine person, one that is truly and properly God, without idolatry, be regarded as the object of religious worship and adoration. The phrase both theirs and ours, either, as some think, refers to "every place" and so read the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions; and the sense is, that the apostle inscribes his epistle to all that call upon the name of Christ, whether in Judea or in the Gentile world, in the place where the apostle was, or the Corinthians were, or any of the other saints in Achaia were; signifying, that invocation of God is not confined to any particular place, but that men may now lift up holy hands prayer to God everywhere; or rather it refers to "our Lord", and shows that Christ is the common Lord of his people, whom they all invoke, and by whom they are called, and therefore ought to love one another.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:2 The church is comprised of those who are called by God to be his own holy people, those who belong to him and are dedicated to him. They have been made holy by means of Christ Jesus—God has set them apart for himself through the saving work of his Son and their faith relationship to him.
1 Corinthians 1:2
Greetings from Paul and Sosthenes
1Paul, called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and our brother Sosthenes,2To the church of God in Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, together with all those everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Bible Analysis of Man) Man's Body Mortal
By Willie Mullan2.4K53:38Bible Analysis Of ManJHN 15:41CO 1:21CO 3:11CO 6:151CO 6:18In this sermon, the preacher describes the situation of the apostle Paul who was imprisoned in a dark and damp Roman cell, chained to a soldier. Despite his circumstances, Paul rejoiced and saw his imprisonment as an opportunity to share the gospel with the soldier. The sermon then transitions to a discussion on the analysis of man according to the Bible. The preacher explores various aspects of man, including his conscience, understanding, memory, and imagination, highlighting how sin has affected each of these areas. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the mortal nature of man's body and the consequences of sin, urging listeners to avoid destructive behaviors and instead honor God with their bodies.
Becoming What You Are
By Manley Beasley2.2K28:46Self-ImagePSA 139:16JHN 19:28JHN 21:22ROM 8:281CO 1:2EPH 2:10PHP 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of facing the issue of victory in our lives. He refers to Psalms 139:16, which speaks about God knowing and writing the days of our lives before they even come to be. The preacher also mentions Ephesians 2:10, highlighting the need to experience this truth. He then connects these verses to the crucifixion of Jesus, specifically John 19:28-30, where Jesus declares "it is finished" before giving up his life. The preacher encourages listeners to recognize themselves as overcomers and to live a life of submission to God's will.
(John) Christ's Confessed Deity
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:01:57Christ's DeityMAT 27:46LUK 2:49JHN 1:1JHN 10:281CO 1:21CO 3:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of God manifesting in flesh. He refers to the verse "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God" and explains that Christ is contesting his deity by stating that he and the Father are one in purpose and power. The preacher also mentions that God manifests in flesh can die, as seen in the crucifixion of Jesus. He emphasizes the sacrifice of Jesus as the Lamb of God and the Savior of all who believe. The sermon includes references to biblical verses such as John 10:28 and 1 Corinthians 2:8.
Holiness
By J. Sidlow Baxter1.0K44:43HolinessMAT 6:33ROM 8:291CO 1:2EPH 1:41TH 4:7HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker begins by recounting a story of a mischievous child who caused a disaster by playing with two important bottles on his mother's tablecloth. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of holiness in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that true sanctification is a priority concern for Christians and that it is necessary for pleasing God. The speaker focuses on Ephesians 1:4, highlighting the significance of the verb "he hath chosen" and explaining its implications in Greek grammar.
Church Live Re-Visited: Session One - Part 3
By Ron Bailey1.0K21:20EXO 24:8MAT 16:18ACT 7:38ROM 10:131CO 1:2EPH 3:14HEB 9:14This sermon delves into Paul's perception of the Church in 1 Corinthians, emphasizing the concept of sanctification and being called out for a purpose. It explores the idea of Christians calling upon the name of the Lord, receiving God's grace, and functioning together as a church. The universal application of Paul's message to all churches is highlighted, along with the importance of fellowship and understanding the true meaning of 'church'. The sermon also touches on the historical context of the word 'ecclesia' and its significance in the Old Testament and the establishment of the new covenant church through Jesus Christ.
(Through the Bible) 1 Corinthians - Part 1
By Zac Poonen54856:491CO 1:21CO 5:11CO 6:121CO 10:31This sermon delves into Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, addressing the functioning of the local church and the influence of the spirit of the city of Corinth on the church. It emphasizes the need for the church to influence society positively and believers to appreciate one another. The sermon also highlights the importance of discipline in dealing with sin within the church, the significance of selecting profitable actions over lawful ones, and the need to glorify God in both spirit and body.
The Love of God
By G.W. North12754:29Love Of GodEXO 25:37MAT 6:331CO 1:2REV 1:1In this sermon, the preacher describes a vision of Jesus as seen by John in the book of Revelation. Jesus is depicted as standing among seven golden candlesticks, with a garment down to his feet and a golden girdle around his waist. His head and hair are white like wool, and his eyes are described as fiery. His feet are compared to brass that has been burned in a furnace. Jesus' voice is said to sound like many waters, and he holds seven stars in his right hand. Out of his mouth comes a sharp, two-edged sword, and his countenance shines like the sun. The preacher emphasizes the importance of believing in Jesus and turning away from sin, and encourages listeners to come to Jesus with love and purpose. The sermon concludes with a reference to John's letter to the seven churches in Asia, where Jesus is described as the faithful witness who was dead but is now alive.
Victory Over the World
By Watchman Nee0Faith and ExperienceVictory in ChristJHN 16:331CO 1:21CO 6:111CO 6:191CO 8:121JN 5:4Watchman Nee emphasizes that victory over the world is rooted in the accomplished work of Christ, who has already overcome the world. He explains that while God's facts are established by His works, our faith is essential to appropriate these truths in our lives. The experience of victory is not achieved through human effort but through acknowledging and claiming the grace God has provided. Nee illustrates this with the example of the Corinthian church, which, despite being sanctified in Christ, failed to live out that reality due to a lack of faith. Ultimately, the Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in transforming God's facts into personal experiences for believers.
Continued
By Harmon A. Baldwin0JHN 16:27JHN 17:3ACT 15:81CO 1:22CO 7:1GAL 5:16EPH 5:251TH 4:31JN 1:7Harmon A. Baldwin discusses the presence of carnality in justified souls in the New Testament era, emphasizing that even the disciples before Pentecost lived under the Mosaic dispensation and were justified by meeting the requirements of their time. Jesus affirmed the disciples' faith and love, indicating their justification, yet their carnal traits like desire for greatness, spirit of retaliation, and unbelief persisted. Baldwin highlights the need for sanctification and heart purity, as seen in Jesus' prayer for the disciples and their cleansing on Pentecost, along with Paul's exhortation to seek entire sanctification.
The Local Church Defined
By William MacDonald0The Nature of the Local ChurchUnity in the Church1CO 1:2EPH 4:4William MacDonald defines the local church as a community of believers gathered in Christ's name, emphasizing that true churches are not merely defined by rigid requirements but by their spiritual condition and unity in Christ. He argues that the local church should reflect the universal Church, embodying truths such as the oneness of the body, Christ as the head, and the role of the Holy Spirit. MacDonald stresses the importance of love and grace in maintaining unity among believers, warning against the divisive nature of denominationalism. He calls for a church that represents Christ faithfully, avoiding sectarianism and promoting genuine fellowship among all Christians. Ultimately, the local church's mission is to testify to the unity and holiness of the body of Christ.
The Cross and the New Man
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Cross of ChristTransformationGEN 5:1MAT 24:22ROM 7:18ROM 8:20ROM 11:321CO 1:22CO 5:17GAL 2:20HEB 4:121PE 3:4T. Austin-Sparks explores the profound transformation that occurs through the Cross of Christ, emphasizing the dual nature of humanity as both fallen and redeemed. He outlines the original design of man, the impact of the Fall, and the necessity of recognizing our sinful state to embrace the new life offered through Christ's sacrifice. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding the Cross not just as a means of forgiveness but as the pathway to becoming a new creation in Christ. Sparks warns against the dangers of living from the 'natural man' and stresses that true spiritual maturity comes from a deep realization of the Cross's implications in our lives. Ultimately, he calls believers to a crisis of faith that leads to the ascendency of the new man and a life governed by the Spirit.
The Spirit of Glory (John 17:1)
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 17:11CO 1:2GAL 2:20EPH 2:6PHP 2:71TH 2:121PE 2:241PE 4:141PE 5:101JN 3:8T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the work of the ministry, focusing on the glory that comes from Christ's completed work and His glorification. Christ's humility, dependence, and voluntary acceptance of weakness and shame paved the way for His glorification, becoming the source and ground of glory for believers. The Mediator of glory, the Holy Spirit, rests upon believers, leading them on the pathway to glory through suffering and a faith-filled attitude towards trials.
Jehovah-Jesus, the Lover, Husband, and Glorifier of His Church
By Thomas Bradbury0ISA 56:5JHN 3:16JHN 17:19JHN 17:231CO 1:2EPH 2:4EPH 5:25HEB 10:171PE 1:22Thomas Bradbury preaches on the profound love of Christ for the Church, emphasizing how husbands should love their wives sacrificially, as Christ loved the Church and gave Himself for it. The epistle of Ephesians is highlighted as a revelation of the fellowship and privileges of God's family, showcasing the spiritual union and high calling of believers in Christ. The sermon delves into the sanctification and cleansing work of Christ through the Word, aiming to present the Church as a glorious and spotless bride, holy and without blemish, reflecting the perfection and beauty of Christ.
1 Corinthians 1 Notting Hill
By John Nelson Darby0Lordship Of ChristThe Church vs. ProfessionACT 2:361CO 1:21CO 1:8EPH 4:4PHP 2:101TH 5:232TI 2:191PE 2:9JUD 1:4John Nelson Darby emphasizes the distinction between the true Church and the broader profession of Christianity in his sermon on 1 Corinthians 1. He highlights that while all who call upon the name of Jesus are treated as Christians, there is a critical difference between being part of the Church, called saints, and merely professing faith. Darby points out that the Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthians as the Church of God, acknowledging their gifts while also preparing to correct their errors. He stresses the importance of recognizing Christ's Lordship and the responsibility that comes with being part of the Church, especially in light of the challenges faced by the early Christians. The sermon serves as a reminder of the need for discernment in the faith community and the ongoing relevance of these principles today.
The Churches Founded by the Apostles
By Watchman Nee0Local vs. Universal ChurchUnity in the ChurchMAT 16:18MAT 18:17ACT 14:231CO 1:21CO 4:171CO 10:321CO 11:161CO 16:11TH 2:14REV 2:1Watchman Nee emphasizes the distinction between the universal Church and local churches, explaining that while the Church is one body, the apostles established separate churches based on locality. He clarifies that the term 'church' refers to the assembly of believers in a specific place, and that the division into local churches is divinely ordained to reflect the physical gathering of believers. Nee warns against the dangers of sectarianism and the importance of maintaining the local character of churches, asserting that each church should be independent yet spiritually connected to others. He concludes that the only scriptural basis for church division is geographical locality, and that true unity in Christ transcends physical boundaries.
Passages in Which Each Name [Of Jesus] Occurs - Part 1
By John Nelson Darby0The Authority of ChristThe Name of JesusROM 1:11CO 1:2PHP 2:11HEB 13:81JN 4:2John Nelson Darby emphasizes the significance of the name of Jesus Christ throughout the New Testament, illustrating how various apostles and writers refer to Him in their letters. He highlights the multifaceted roles of Jesus, including His position as Savior, Lord, and the foundation of faith, and how these titles reflect His divine authority and relationship with believers. The sermon serves as a reminder of the centrality of Jesus in the Christian faith and the importance of acknowledging His lordship in our lives.
Do the Scriptures Teach a Second Blessing?
By Samuel Chadwick01CO 1:22CO 7:1GAL 5:171TH 5:231JN 1:7Samuel Chadwick emphasizes the challenge of proving the doctrine of a Second Blessing from the Bible compared to ecclesiastical declarations and theological definitions. He highlights the importance of seeking truth firsthand and the difficulty in formulating doctrines solely based on isolated texts. Chadwick stresses that the Second Blessing is not confined to a single text but is woven throughout the entire Bible, requiring a comprehensive understanding of all Scriptures. He underscores the necessity of personal faith and spiritual discernment in grasping divine truths, ultimately leading to sanctification and obedience to God's commandments.
Benediction to Corinthians
By Clement of Rome0ROM 15:331CO 1:2JUD 1:25REV 1:6Clement of Rome sends messengers Claudius Ephebus, Valerius Bito, and Fortunatus to the Corinthians, urging them to bring back news of peace and harmony among the believers. He expresses a deep longing for the restoration of good order in the community, desiring to rejoice in their unity. Clement concludes with a prayer for the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ to be with all who are called by God, giving glory, honor, power, majesty, and eternal dominion to Him forever.
Hebrews 12:25-29
By D.S. Warner0MAT 3:12LUK 3:17JHN 17:6JHN 17:20ACT 2:42ACT 20:281CO 1:21CO 1:101TI 3:15D.S. Warner preaches about the importance of thorough sanctification and the need to remove denominational divisions within the church. He emphasizes that true holiness destroys denominations and that personal consecration and faith are essential to purging the sin of division. Warner urges individuals to reject sectarianism, adhere only to the one church founded by Christ, and seek visible unity as prayed for by Jesus. He warns against the evils of party spirit, rivalry, and contention caused by denominationalism, stressing that the church must return to its original unity to exhibit God's love and truth to the world.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Catharer! - Part 2
By Leonard Verduin0MAT 13:24MAT 18:15JHN 17:141CO 1:21CO 5:61CO 5:111CO 5:132TH 3:62PE 2:13Leonard Verduin discusses the historical conflict between two delineations of the Church: one emphasizing personal faith as the basis for a confessional Church, and the other focusing on including all in a given locality. The Restitutionists in Hesse believed in a Church of regenerate Christians born again by the Word of God and the Holy Spirit, while Protestant pastors emphasized the importance of the pure preaching of the Word and administration of Sacraments. The debate over Church marks and discipline led to a divergence in views on Church membership and conductual patterns, with the Restitutionists advocating for a Church of believers with inner renewal and discipline, contrasting the inclusive Church concept of the sacralists.
"Jesus christ... Both Their Lord and Ours"
By T. Austin-Sparks0Preparation for HeavenUnity in Christ1CO 1:2EPH 4:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ, highlighting that Jesus is both their Lord and ours, transcending divisions among Christians. He reflects on the significance of gathering together in love, reminding the congregation that the true essence of their fellowship is rooted in Christ's love. Sparks warns against the tendency to make Jesus smaller than He is, urging believers to focus on Christ rather than their differences. He encourages the audience to prepare for heaven by fostering love and unity among neighbors, as they will all share the same street in the New Jerusalem. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper commitment to making Christ central in their lives, both now and in the life to come.
Praising the Saints in Corinth
By Clement of Rome0PRO 31:101CO 1:21TI 3:2TIT 2:41PE 5:5Clement of Rome addresses the Church of God in Corinth, expressing regret for the delay in responding to their concerns due to recent calamities. He commends the Corinthians for their faith, virtue, godliness, hospitality, and knowledge, highlighting their obedience to God's commandments and respect for their leaders. Clement praises the Corinthians for their sober-mindedness, serious demeanor, and emphasis on living with blameless consciences and discretion.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Church of God which is at Corinth - This Church was planted by the apostle himself about a.d. 52, as we learn from Act 18:1 (note), etc. Sanctified in Christ Jesus - Ἡγιασμενοις, Separated from the corruptions of their place and age. Called to be saints - Κλητοις ἁγιοις, Constituted saints, or invited to become such; this was the design of the Gospel, for Jesus Christ came to save men from their sins. With all that in every place, etc. - All who profess Christianity, both in Corinth, Ephesus, and other parts of Greece or Asia Minor; and by this we see that the apostle intended that this epistle should be a general property of the universal Church of Christ; though there are several matters in it that are suited to the state of the Corinthians only. Both theirs and ours - That is, Jesus Christ is the common Lord and Savior of all. He is the exclusive property of no one Church, or people, or nation. Calling on or invoking the name of the Lord Jesus, was the proper distinguishing mark of a Christian. In those times of apostolic light and purity no man attempted to invoke God but in the name of Jesus Christ; this is what genuine Christians still mean when they ask any thing from God for Christ's Sake.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the church of God--He calls it so notwithstanding its many blots. Fanatics and sectaries vainly think to anticipate the final sifting of the wheat and tares (Mat 13:27-30). It is a dangerous temptation to think there is no church where there is not apparent perfect purity. He who thinks so, must at last separate from all others and think himself the only holy man in the world, or establish a peculiar sect with a few hypocrites. It was enough for Paul in recognizing the Corinthians as a church, that he saw among them evangelical doctrine, baptism, and the Lord's Supper" [CALVIN]. It was the Church of God, not of this or of that favorite leader [CHRYSOSTOM]. at Corinth--a church at dissolute Corinth--what a paradox of grace! sanctified--consecrated, or set apart as holy to God in (by union with) Christ Jesus. In the Greek there are no words "to them that are"; translate simply, "men sanctified." called to be saints--rather, "called saints"; saints by calling: applied by Paul to all professing members of the Church. As "sanctified in Christ" implies the fountain sources of holiness, the believer's original sanctification in Christ (Co1 6:11; Heb 10:10, Heb 10:14; Pe1 1:2) in the purposes of God's grace, so "called saints" refers to their actual call (Rom 8:30), and the end of that call that they should be holy (Pe1 1:15). with all that in every place call upon . . . Christ--The Epistle is intended for these also, as well as for the Corinthians. The true CATHOLIC CHURCH (a term first used by IGNATIUS [Epistle to the SmyrÃ&brvbrans, 8]): not consisting of those who call themselves from Paul, Cephas, or any other eminent leader (Co1 1:12), but of all, wherever they be, who call on Jesus as their Saviour in sincerity (compare Ti2 2:22). Still a general unity of discipline and doctrine in the several churches is implied in Co1 4:17; Co1 7:17; 11-16; 14-33, 36. The worship due to God is here attributed to Jesus (compare Joe 2:32; Mat 4:10; Act 9:14). both theirs and ours--"in every place which is their home . . . and our home also"; this is added to include the Christians throughout Achaia, not residing in Corinth, the capital (Co2 1:1). Paul feels the home of his converts to be also his own. Compare a similar phrase in Rom 16:13 [CONYBEARE and HOWSON]. "Ours" refers to Paul and Sosthenes, and the Corinthians' home [ALFORD]. BEZA better explains, "Both their Lord and our Lord." All believers have one and the same Lord (Co1 8:6; Eph 4:5); a virtual reproof of the divisions of the Corinthians, as if Christ were divided (Co1 1:13).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Unto the church of God which is at Corinth,.... This epistle is inscribed to the saints at Corinth; who are described by their being "the church of God", a particular congregated church; a number of persons gathered out of the world, and joined together in holy fellowship, carrying on the worship of God together, and walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord; a very high character this, to be called the church of God, which is the pillar and ground of truth: and it may be observed, that this is here given to a people, among whom were many irregularities, errors, disorders, and divisions; which shows, that a church of God is not to be unchurched for everything that is amiss in them: they are further described by the place of their abode, Corinth, the "metropolis" of Achaia; a very large and opulent city, a place of great trade and commerce, and famous both for its wealth and wisdom; but not so famous for anything as this, that there was a church of Christ in it; of the city of Corinth; see Gill on Act 18:1; and of the church; see Gill on Act 18:8. The members of it in general, for it cannot be thought to hold good of every individual, are said to be sanctified in Christ Jesus; not by baptism, for they were sanctified before that; but were set apart, or chosen in Christ from all eternity, to grace here, and glory hereafter; justified by the blood and righteousness of Christ, in which sense the word "sanctified" is sometimes used; and to whom Christ was made "sanctification" and righteousness; and in consequence of which they were sanctified by his Spirit in his name, out of that fulness of grace and holiness which is in him: wherefore it follows, called to be saints; for though they were chosen to holiness in Christ, and through sanctification of the Spirit unto salvation, yet before calling were unholy; though Christ had given himself for them to sanctify and purify them, yet whilst uncalled were impure; they fell in Adam, and became both guilty and filthy through his transgression; and by their first birth were unholy and unclean, and were so in their lives and conversations; nor are any holy by natural descent: these were not born saints, nor made so by their own free will, but were become such through the powerful grace of God in the effectual calling; in which not only desires after holiness, but principles of holiness were wrought in them; and by which they were called to the practice of external holiness, or to live an holy life and conversation. And this epistle is not only inscribed to these saints at Corinth, but to them, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord; as in Corinth, so in any part of Achaia, of which Corinth was the chief city. Invocation of the name of Christ not only respects prayer to him, but includes the whole of religious worship: see Rom 10:13; and this being given to Christ, and perforated in his name, is a very considerable proof of his true and proper deity; and the Ethiopic version here styles him, "God, our Lord Jesus Christ"; for none but God is to be invoked; nor can any but a divine person, one that is truly and properly God, without idolatry, be regarded as the object of religious worship and adoration. The phrase both theirs and ours, either, as some think, refers to "every place" and so read the Vulgate Latin, Syriac, and Arabic versions; and the sense is, that the apostle inscribes his epistle to all that call upon the name of Christ, whether in Judea or in the Gentile world, in the place where the apostle was, or the Corinthians were, or any of the other saints in Achaia were; signifying, that invocation of God is not confined to any particular place, but that men may now lift up holy hands prayer to God everywhere; or rather it refers to "our Lord", and shows that Christ is the common Lord of his people, whom they all invoke, and by whom they are called, and therefore ought to love one another.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:2 The church is comprised of those who are called by God to be his own holy people, those who belong to him and are dedicated to him. They have been made holy by means of Christ Jesus—God has set them apart for himself through the saving work of his Son and their faith relationship to him.