1 Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 2 Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours: 3 Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:1-3 KJV)
Greetings
We have here the apostle’s preface to his letter, in which we see both the sender and the recipients clearly identified, as was the custom at the time.
This letter is from Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles, to the church in Corinth, which he had planted. Some among them questioned his apostleship (1 Corinthians 9:1-2) and criticized his person and ministry (2 Corinthians 10:10). Faithful ministers are not exempt from contempt. Paul begins by asserting his calling: “Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God.” He didn’t appoint himself but was divinely commissioned.
This was necessary, especially when false teachers were undermining him and influencing the people. Paul includes Sosthenes, a fellow minister, in the greeting—likely a Corinthian by birth, formerly a synagogue ruler and later a convert—perhaps to show goodwill and strengthen connection with the church. Paul still speaks in his own name throughout the letter, maintaining his apostolic authority, while also showing humility and care for the people he served.
The letter is addressed to the church of God in Corinth, “sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints.” All Christians are sanctified in Christ by being dedicated to Him through baptism and are called to live holy lives. If they fail to be holy, it is their own fault. Christianity aims to sanctify us in Christ, who gave Himself to redeem us from all sin and purify a people eager to do good (Titus 2:14). Paul also includes “all who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,” recognizing them as fellow believers. Christians are known by their dependence on prayer and their confession of Christ’s name. Wherever believers are found, we should share in mutual concern and fellowship with them.
Paul blesses them with, “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” As a messenger of the gospel, he brings peace. This blessing includes God’s favor and reconciliation. Under the Old Testament, the blessing was, “The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:26). Through the gospel, we are shown that peace with God comes through Christ. Grace comes first, then peace. God reconciles us through Christ before granting us peace.