In the Apostle Paul's two letters to Corinth can be found advice for many modern situations that affect beleivers in the Lord Jesus Christ. First Centruy Corinth, withs is rampant worldiness is the direct counterpart of

twenty first century western society. The liberty of the Corinthians who lived in those far off days was of the same stamp of that which is valued by modern society - the freedom to choose, the freedom to indulge in self-gratification, the freedom to express individuality. The effect of the teachings of the gospel upon this worldly and self centered society was bound to create tensions, and the apostle's measured and sound advice, based often on the Old Testament scriptires, was designed to help individuals from many different backgrounds draw together to serve their new Master.

As well as providing advice for individuals about how to live godly lives within a godless society, the two letters are full of Biblical wisdom to apply to many ecclesial situations. Breaking of bread meetings were being disrupted, worldly methods were being used to deal with spiritual problems, rather than brethren and sisters combining their efforts to produce unity, the ecclesia was being pulled apart. At each turn, the apostle drew his readers back to God's word and the example of the Lord Jesus; he encouraged them to apply these in their personal lives, and when they met together.

In the midst of a society where human achievement was elevated, the message of these two letters was designed to impress this one great truth: "no flesh should glory in God's presence". May the readers of this book learn the same lesson.