Divisions within the Corinthian Community: Theological Parties

• Main Author: Veronika Ponikarovskaya
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: St. Philaret’s Christian Orthodox Institute 2011-02-01
• Series: Вестник Свято-Филаретовского института
• Subjects: early corinthians; rhetoric; theological parties; christ-centeredness; первое послание к коринфянам; риторика; богословские партии; христоцентричность; библеистика; biblical studies
• Online Access: https://psmb-neos-resources.hb.bizmrg.com/target/sfi/6a2b695c097cd8c9b1ae2775b67aecc8bad14144/Vyp.4_V.Ponikarovskaja.pdf

In ancient philosophy, the role of a teacher was traditionally emphasized. Under the influence of this tradition, Corinthian Christians thought it essential to follow the line of a particular authoritative apostle. This led to creation of divisions within the Community: “Paul’s party” insisted on the law-free gospel, “Cephas’ party” was more traditionally Jewish; “Apollos’ party” was fascinated by Hellenistic Jewish wisdom. Insisting on their adherence to the “proper” authority, the Corinthians also sought to elevate their own status. Paul suggests a value reorientation – God’s wisdom and glory instead of human wisdom and glory – and adherence to the “party of Christ”. This is a radical Christ-centeredness, which relativizes the importance of any human teacher.