1. A reminder of Israel's past (1-11)

Paul reminded the Corinthian believers of the tragic history of Israel. God had led them out of bondage in Egypt through the wilderness. He had provided food and water for them. He kept them safe. But God's people Israel were in continual rebellion against him. They engaged in sexual immorality and in idolatry even as God dwelled with them. Paul meant these things as a warning to the Corinthians. They had received the culmination of the ages in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

2. God will provide a way out (12,13)

Paul gave another warning, but then a promise that gives God's people hope. The Corinthians were proud that they were standing firm. But no one is immune from temptation all the time. We are all human, with sinful desires we cannot control on our own. But God is faithful! Even in the midst of temptation, God gives us a way out. He will not give us temptations we can't bear. Through his grace, he has given us the gospel of the forgiveness of our sins.


Application: Help me not to be proud, but to humbly rely on you and your gospel when I am tempted.
One Word: God is faithful.