1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral & Missional Commentary, Michael J. Gorman. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. (ISBN: 9780802882660) 2025.

Summary: A theological, pastoral, and missional commentary designed for all wanting a careful exposition of the text.

The apostle Paul wrote more to the Corinthian church than any other. And that doesn’t include the correspondence we don’t have! Paul spent significant time with them on more than one visit. The problems arose in his absence. Rival factions contended, some loyal to him, others preferring other teachers. They had issues with immorality and questions about sexuality and marriage amid licentious Corinth. Their gatherings reflected their rivalries, from inequities at the Lord’s table to rivalries as to who was more spiritual. Finally, some denied the resurrection, which Paul considered the linchpin of belief. In 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses all these matters.

Michael J. Gorman, in 1 Corinthians: A Theological, Pastoral & Missional Commentary, articulates the structure of Paul’s letter, exposits the text, explaining its background, and identifying key themes and issues and their contemporary relevance. He argues that 1 Corinthians is, first of all, a theological text, centering on the cross and the Spirit. Paul’s aim is that the Corinthians become a cruciform charismatic community. Secondly, the letter is pastoral, seeking their ongoing transformation into Christlikeness. Thirdly, the text is missional. Throughout, we see Paul’s concern for unbelievers, whether those they meet in social relations, those in mixed marriages, or those visiting the assembled community. Paul sets before them his missional model of becoming all things to all men to save some.

Gorman emphasizes particularly the working out of cruciformity in Paul’s ministry and instruction. He describes this as an x-y-z pattern: “Although (x) not (y) but (z).” For example, in 1 Corinthians 9, Gorman observes this pattern:

• Although [x] as an apostle he has the right to financial support from those to whom he ministers,
• he has chosen not [y] to exercise that right
• but has rather [z] worked with his hands to support himself and not burden others–an act of love. (p.66)

A second theme Gorman notes is Paul’s “bi-focal vision.” Paul not only looks back to the cross and resurrection and what is already true but also forward to the coming of the Lord and living in light of his appearing.

Finally, Gorman observes Paul structuring the letter around the four marks of the church in the creed: one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. He outlines the letter as follows:

1. One: Chapters 1-4 — Unity Through the Wisdom and Power of the Cross
2. Holy: Chapters 5-7 — Addressing Moral Chaos: Holy Living Between the Cross and Parousia
3. Catholic: Chapters 8-14 — Addressing Liturgical Chaos: The Cross, Worship, and Salvation for All
4. Apostolic: Chapters 15-16 — The Apostolic Witness to the Resurrection of Christ and Believers, and Conclusion (including the ecumenical offering and Paul’s missional plans)

Each sub-section of the commentary consists of exposition of the text by sections. While not “verse-by-verse” I found Gorman thorough in his treatment, though not exhaustive. He offers frequent summaries. Then at the end of each sub-section, he offers Spiritual, Pastoral, Missional, and Theological Reflections. These consider the the contemporary relevance of the text. Then he offers Questions for Those Who Read, Preach, and Teach of a more applicatory nature. He then concludes with a bibliography For Further Reading with a mix of highly accessible to technical texts, which he notes. Typical of commentaries, he offers introductory material on Paul, including his itinerary, and background for the Corinthian correspondence.

I found the commentary highly accessible, reading it along with the biblical text since Gorman does not provide full texts in the commentary. I most appreciated his emphasis on the cruciform life and how this addressed the rivalries in Corinth and also in how it is the bedrock for the exercise of spiritual gifts in the church, summarized in 1 Corinthians 13. This is a great commentary to read for devotional purposes as well as a resource for teaching and preaching. The reading lists and bibliography serve as an introduction to scholarly study. I am glad to add this to my “go to” commentaries on this letter!

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Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for review.