Session 3: Acts 18-20 & 1-2 Corinthians

February 13, 2026

Session 3 Pre-Work

Please complete the following before Class #3 Feb 16th (Plan on about 45–60 minutes total.)

Scripture Reading

    • Acts 18:1–17 – The founding of the church in Corinth
    • 1 Corinthians 4 – Paul’s view of apostleship, power, and the “way of the cross”
Reflection questions:
    • What pressures or challenges does Paul face when he first arrives in Corinth?
    • What kind of “power” or “authority” does Paul claim—and what kind does he reject?

Video

Watch: BibleProject — “2 Corinthians Overview”

As you watch, listen for:

    • How Paul defines true apostleship
    • Why suffering, weakness, and endurance matter in Paul’s ministry

Textbook Reading

Introducing Paul — Michael F. Bird

    • Chapter 5: “The Royal Announcement”

As you read, focus on:

    • Paul’s understanding of the gospel as a royal proclamation, not self-help advice
    • How the message of the crucified Messiah reshapes ideas of power and success

Final Note

Come ready to wrestle with this question: Why would a church in a success-driven city struggle to embrace a crucified King—and why might we?