Question 1

Why does Paul say he is not writing to shame the Corinthians?

Accepted Answer

Paul explains that he is not trying to shame them, but to warn them as a loving father warns his children. They had become proud and divided, and his earlier words were sharp. Here he wants them to know his heart. He is not attacking them to crush them or embarrass them, but to wake them up to their sin so they can change. He sees them as his beloved children in the faith, so his correction comes from care, not from spite or a desire to put them down in front of others.

Question 2

What does Paul mean when he calls himself their spiritual father?

Accepted Answer

When Paul calls himself their father, he is not claiming to replace God. He is reminding them that God used him to bring them to faith in Christ when he first preached the gospel in their city. Many other teachers came later, but Paul was the one through whom they were first “begotten” in Christ. This means he has a special bond and responsibility toward them, like a parent to children. Because of this, he expects them to treat his words with respect and to remember how they first learned Christ.

Question 3

Why does Paul tell the Corinthians to be followers of him?

Accepted Answer

Paul asks them to follow his example because he himself is following Christ. He is not asking for blind loyalty to his personality. He wants them to imitate his way of life that centers on Jesus, the cross, humility, and faithful service. Their problem was chasing after flashy teachers and human wisdom. By saying “be followers of me,” he is calling them back to the simple, consistent pattern they first saw in him, as he lived and taught the same message of Christ in every place and every church.

Question 4

Why did Paul send Timothy to the church in Corinth?

Accepted Answer

Paul sent Timothy to remind the Corinthians of Paul’s ways in Christ. Timothy had worked closely with Paul and knew both his teaching and his lifestyle. Timothy was a trusted coworker, described as Paul’s beloved and faithful son in the Lord. His job was not to bring new ideas, but to call the church back to the message and example they had already received. This showed that Paul’s teaching was steady and the same everywhere, and it also prepared the church for Paul’s own planned visit later on.

Question 5

What does it mean that some in Corinth were puffed up?

Accepted Answer

When Paul says some were “puffed up,” he means they were full of pride. They were acting as if Paul would not come back, so they could go on boasting and causing division without being corrected. Their confidence was based on human status, smooth speech, and party spirit. Paul warns that their pride is empty. When he comes, he will not be impressed by clever words or appearances, but will look for real spiritual power and true change in people’s lives that comes from the gospel.

Question 6

What does Paul mean that the kingdom of God is not in word but in power?

Accepted Answer

Paul is saying that God’s kingdom is not proven by talk, arguments, or fancy speech, but by God’s real power at work. At first, this power showed itself in miracles, but it also shows in how the message changes hearts and lives. True teaching from God leads to repentance, holiness, love, and obedience. The proud teachers in Corinth could speak well, but Paul wants to see whether what they say actually brings people closer to God in a real way. Where the gospel truly reigns, God’s power can be seen, not just heard.

Question 7

Why does Paul ask if he should come with a rod or in love and meekness?

Accepted Answer

Paul is giving the Corinthians a choice about how his visit will go. “With a rod” is a picture of firm discipline, like a parent correcting stubborn children. If they keep on in pride and division, he will have to exercise his authority sharply for their good. But his desire is to come in love and a gentle spirit, enjoying them instead of rebuking them. In simple terms, he is saying, “Change your ways now, and my visit will be joyful, not painful.” Their response to his warning will shape how he comes.

Question 8

How does this passage show the balance of love and authority in church leaders?

Accepted Answer

This passage shows Paul speaking with deep love and real authority at the same time. He calls the believers his beloved children and writes to warn, not shame. He sends Timothy gently to remind them of the truth, yet also tells them plainly that, if needed, he will come with a rod of discipline. He is ready to be tender, but will not ignore sin. This shows that faithful leaders care about people’s hearts and also about right living, and they correct out of love, not to control or harm.

Question 9

How can believers today apply Paul’s words about following his example?

Accepted Answer

Believers today can apply Paul’s words by looking for leaders whose lives match the message of Christ and then imitating that Christlike pattern. This means valuing humility, faithfulness, and a focus on the cross over showy gifts or impressive speech. It also means letting the gospel shape both what we believe and how we live, not just our words. When we see a life that clearly follows Jesus, we can safely say, “I want to walk that same path,” always remembering that Christ himself is the final and perfect model.

1 Corinthians 4:14

I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.

Paul’s Fatherly Warning

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1 Corinthians 4:14

I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you.

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Paul’s Fatherly Warning

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