1 Corinthians 1:12

What I mean is this: Individuals among you are saying, "I follow Paul," "I follow Apollos," "I follow Cephas," or "I follow Christ."

Study Bible

What I mean is this
This phrase serves as a clarifying statement from the Apostle Paul. In the Greek, "λέγω δὲ τοῦτο" (lego de touto) indicates a direct explanation or emphasis. Paul is addressing a specific issue within the Corinthian church, aiming to bring clarity and focus to the divisions that have arisen. Historically, Corinth was a diverse and cosmopolitan city, and the church reflected this diversity, which sometimes led to factionalism.

Individuals among you are saying
The Greek word "λέγει" (legei) implies ongoing action, suggesting that these declarations were not isolated incidents but a persistent issue. The phrase highlights the personal nature of the divisions, as it was individuals within the community who were aligning themselves with different leaders. This reflects the human tendency to seek identity and validation through association with prominent figures, a tendency that can detract from the unity in Christ.

'I follow Paul'
Paul was the founder of the Corinthian church and a pivotal figure in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. His teachings emphasized grace and the transformative power of the Gospel. The Greek word "Παύλου" (Paulou) signifies those who might have been drawn to his intellectual approach and theological depth.

'I follow Apollos'
Apollos was known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Scriptures (Acts 18:24). The Greek "Ἀπολλῶ" (Apollō) suggests a group attracted to his rhetorical skills and perhaps his Alexandrian background, which might have appealed to those who valued wisdom and eloquence.

'I follow Cephas'
Cephas, or Peter, was one of the original apostles and a leading figure in the early Jewish Christian community. The Greek "Κηφᾶ" (Kēpha) indicates those who might have been drawn to his authority and connection to the Jewish roots of the faith.

'I follow Christ.'
While this declaration seems the most appropriate, it is possible that even this group was using the name of Christ to assert superiority over others. The Greek "Χριστόν" (Christon) underscores the centrality of Christ in the faith, yet Paul’s concern is that even this allegiance can be misused to foster division rather than unity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who founded the church in Corinth and wrote this letter to address issues within the church, including divisions.

2. Apollos
A learned Jew from Alexandria, known for his eloquence and knowledge of the Scriptures. He was a prominent teacher in the early church and had a significant following in Corinth.

3. Cephas (Peter)
One of Jesus' original disciples and a leading figure in the early church. His Aramaic name, Cephas, means "rock."

4. Christ
The central figure of Christianity, whose teachings and sacrifice are the foundation of the faith. Some in Corinth claimed direct allegiance to Christ, possibly to assert spiritual superiority.

5. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and moral challenges. The church in Corinth faced issues of division, immorality, and confusion over spiritual gifts.

Teaching Points

Unity in Christ
The church should be united under Christ, not divided by allegiance to human leaders. Our identity is in Christ, not in any particular teacher or denomination.

Avoiding Factionalism
Division weakens the church's witness. Believers should focus on the core message of the Gospel rather than personal preferences or personalities.

Role of Leaders
Church leaders are servants of Christ, not figures to be idolized. Their role is to point others to Jesus, not to themselves.

Spiritual Maturity
True spiritual maturity is demonstrated by unity and love within the body of Christ, not by aligning with particular leaders or groups.

Christ as the Foundation
Our faith should be built on Christ alone, who is the cornerstone of the church. All teachings and practices should align with His teachings.

Bible Study Questions

1. What are some modern examples of divisions within the church that mirror the situation in Corinth, and how can we address them?

2. How can we ensure that our allegiance remains with Christ rather than becoming overly attached to a particular church leader or denomination?

3. In what ways can church leaders today emulate the servant leadership exemplified by Paul and Apollos?

4. How does understanding the role of Peter (Cephas) in the early church help us appreciate the diversity of leadership styles and gifts within the body of Christ?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed division in a church setting. What steps can be taken to promote healing and unity in such situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 18:24-28
Describes Apollos' ministry and his role in the early church, providing context for his influence in Corinth.

1 Corinthians 3:4-6
Paul further addresses the issue of divisions, emphasizing that both he and Apollos are merely servants through whom the Corinthians believed.

John 1:42
Jesus gives Simon the name Cephas, highlighting Peter's foundational role in the church.

Matthew 16:18
Jesus' declaration about building His church on the "rock," referring to Peter, which underscores Peter's significance.