Here is Christ as the sole foundation for salvation, life, sanctification and eternity. Here also is the local church as God's dwelling place, and the assurance that all things are ours, and precious, whether our present lives, the world, or death, for we are Christ's

How to assess and regard preachers - here are the apostle's standards. The problem of cliques, their causes and cure; also the simple, reasonable lifestyle of God's servants demanded by the apostolic example, and the contrast seen today in 'celebrity' preachers.

Paul warns against being 'puffed up', vaunting earthly accomplishments or gifts, and being satisfied and overconfident. Consider Gospel workers, says Paul, their humility, selflessness, sacrifice, and acceptance of persecution. Live for spiritual and eternal aims, striving for sanctification and witness - whatever the cost.

Preachers at Corinth had thrown aside apostolic authority and failed to address many vital matters (listed here). Paul gives a binding command to follow the 'pattern church' of the scriptures, so neglected today. A full and faithful ministry will be given converting and edifying power.

This message shows that Paul is to be keenly imitated in doctrine, conduct, and church policy - all three. Here are the proof-passages showing that a precise pattern is given for churches in the New Testament. Also, proof that Christ has already taught all Paul's major doctrines

We look in every passage of the Word for a doctrine, a duty, a reproof, an encouragement, a promise and a view of Christ. All are here, especially how the Lord's loving discipline is exercised, and how His power and blessing rules in a believer's life.

Church discipline is seen to have several aims including the honour of Christ, the purity, witness and protection of the church, and the restoration of the offender. Here, also, is the meaning of Christ our passover, and the beauty of Christian conduct, especially in marriage

Paul shows the shame when believer takes believer before a secular court, contradicting their calling and mutual love. Then he describes sins never to be committed by believers; the threefold basis of true conversion; and the rules of Christian liberty

The Spirit takes possession of the soul purchased of Christ, making it an inner sanctuary. It is the place of communion with God, where assurance and comfort are bestowed, and divine stirrings are felt. How careful we must be to preserve the purity of both body and soul!

A key word has slipped out of some modern translations - the marital debt of benevolence, meaning goodwill and kind benefits. Here are seven debts each has to the other in Christian marriage, a sevenfold bond and blessing to the crowning earthly friendship of life's journey, are we paying what is 'due'?