SABBATH SCHOOL LESSON 1 – 3rd QUARTER 2026
PAUL'S MINISTRY IN CORINTH
June 27 – July 3, 2026
WELCOME
Welcome everyone to a new Sabbath School lesson and to the beginning of a new quarter!
During this quarter we will study 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians, two letters written by the apostle Paul. These books teach us how Christians should live in a world filled with problems, temptations, and challenges.
This week's lesson introduces us to the church in Corinth. Although this church had many problems, God did not abandon it. Instead, He sent Paul to teach, encourage, and correct the believers.
The same God who helped the church in Corinth is ready to help us today.
Memory Verse
"One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: 'Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city.'"(Acts 18:9–10)
Main Lesson
God calls ordinary people to do extraordinary work. When we trust Him, He gives us courage, wisdom, and strength to continue His mission.
SABBATH AFTERNOON
Introduction
Paul was one of the greatest missionaries in history.
To support himself, he worked as a tentmaker. During the day he made tents, and during his free time he preached about Jesus.
This teaches us that serving God does not mean avoiding work or daily responsibilities.
We can work, study, care for our families, and still share the love of Christ.
Practical Example
A teacher serves God by treating students with kindness.
A doctor serves God by caring for patients with compassion.
A shopkeeper serves God by being honest.
Every Christian can be a missionary wherever they are.
SUNDAY
Paul, an Apostle Called by God
Bible Reading
1 Corinthians 1:1
Romans 1:1
Galatians 1:1
Paul did not choose to become an apostle.
God chose him.
Before meeting Jesus, Paul persecuted Christians.
But after meeting Christ, his life completely changed.
God forgave him and gave him a new purpose.
What do we learn?
God calls ordinary people.
God forgives our past.
God can use anyone who is willing.
Practical Example
Someone who once struggled with addiction can become a powerful witness for Christ.
Someone who lived far from God can now help others find Him.
God specializes in changing lives.
MONDAY
From Athens to Corinth
Bible Reading
Acts 17:16–34
Acts 18:1–11
Before arriving in Corinth, Paul preached in Athens.
Athens was famous for philosophy and many false gods.
Even though many people disagreed with him, Paul continued preaching about Jesus.
Later he traveled to Corinth.
There he worked making tents while preaching every Sabbath.
When Silas and Timothy arrived, Paul devoted himself fully to preaching God's Word.
His message was simple:
Jesus Christ died for our sins.
What do we learn?
Not everyone will accept the gospel.
That should never stop us from sharing it.
Practical Example
People at school or work may laugh at our faith.
Instead of becoming angry, we should continue showing kindness and living according to God's principles.
Our actions often speak louder than our words.
TUESDAY
The City of Corinth
Bible Reading
Acts 18:1–3
1 Corinthians 5:9–11
1 Corinthians 8:4
Corinth was a rich and powerful city.
It had busy ports and successful businesses.
People from many nations lived there.
But it was also known for idolatry and sexual immorality.
Many people worshiped false gods instead of the true God.
Even in such a sinful city, God sent Paul to preach the gospel.
This reminds us that God loves everyone.
Jesus came to save sinners, not perfect people.
What do we learn?
God's love reaches every city and every person.
No place is too sinful for the gospel.
Practical Example
Today many cities struggle with crime, drugs, corruption, and violence.
God still sends Christians to bring hope to these communities.
WEDNESDAY
"I Have Many People in This City"
Bible Reading
Acts 18:4–10
Isaiah 55:11
Paul preached every Sabbath in the synagogue.
Some people believed.
Others rejected him and insulted him.
Yet God was already working.
Crispus, the synagogue leader, accepted Jesus.
His whole family was baptized.
Many other Corinthians also believed and were baptized.
After facing so much opposition, Paul became discouraged.
Then Jesus appeared to him in a vision and said:
"Do not be afraid. Keep speaking. I am with you."
Jesus also told Paul,
"I have many people in this city."
God already knew who would accept the gospel.
Paul simply had to remain faithful.
What do we learn?
We should never give up because of rejection.
God is always working behind the scenes.
Our responsibility is to share the gospel.
God is responsible for changing hearts.
Practical Example
A farmer plants seeds today.
He does not see immediate results.
But beneath the soil the seed is growing.
Sharing the gospel is the same.
Sometimes we do not see results immediately.
God works in people's hearts over time.
THURSDAY
Paul's Letters to the Corinthians
Bible Reading
1 Corinthians 1:11–13
1 Corinthians 7:1
1 Corinthians 14:37–40
2 Corinthians 13:10
After leaving Corinth, Paul received troubling news.
The church had many problems.
Members argued with one another.
Some lived immoral lives.
Others misunderstood marriage, worship, spiritual gifts, and the resurrection.
Instead of giving up on the church, Paul wrote letters to teach, encourage, and correct them.
His goal was to help believers become more like Christ.
What do we learn?
No church is perfect.
Churches are made up of imperfect people.
God uses His Word to correct and strengthen His people.
Practical Example
Every family experiences disagreements.
Healthy families solve problems through love, forgiveness, and communication.
The same is true in the church.
When we follow God's Word, unity becomes possible.
FRIDAY
Additional Study and Application
Paul discovered that philosophy and human wisdom could not save people.
He decided to focus on one message:
Jesus Christ and Him crucified.
The cross is the center of Christianity.
It shows God's love and His plan to save humanity.
At one point Paul wanted to leave Corinth.
But God encouraged him to stay.
Because Paul obeyed, a strong church was established there.
What have we learned this week?
✔ God calls ordinary people.
✔ Jesus must be the center of our lives.
✔ We should never give up because of difficulties.
✔ God is always with those who serve Him.
✔ The gospel transforms lives.
✔ No church is perfect, but God continues working through His people.
✔ God's Word is still the answer to today's problems.
Discussion Questions
1. Why did Paul almost leave Corinth?
Because he faced opposition, insults, and rejection.
2. How did God encourage him?
God said,
"Do not be afraid. I am with you."
3. Why did Paul write letters to the Corinthians?
To correct mistakes, answer questions, encourage believers, and strengthen the church.
4. Is there a perfect church?
No.
Every church is made up of imperfect people who are growing in Christ.
5. What should be the center of every Christian's life?
Jesus Christ.
Life Application
Our world today is very similar to Corinth.
There is violence, corruption, immorality, idolatry, dishonesty, and many people living without hope.
Yet God continues calling ordinary men and women to share His love.
Maybe you think your family will never change.
Maybe you believe your friends will never accept Jesus.
Remember God's promise to Paul:
"Do not be afraid... I am with you."
When we remain faithful, God will accomplish His work in His perfect time.
Key Verse to Remember
"Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. For I am with you."
Acts 18:9–10
Weekly Challenge
Pray every day for one person who does not know Jesus.
Look for an opportunity to show kindness and share God's love through your words and your actions.
Remember: Your job is to plant the seed. God makes it grow.
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