Eschatology = “the study of last things”

Eschatology, as it is understood in the bible, is the movement toward the already-here/not-yet-come New Creational reign of Jesus, the Kingdom of God.

Point # 1: an exasperated rebuke (1-7)

• In light of eschatological realities, Corinthians should be able to settle their own disputes and be willing to suffer wrong.

Point # 2: an eschatological warning (8-10)

• Those whose lives are characterized by sin will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Point # 3: “And that is what some of you were . . .” (11)

• The Corinthians – though once their lives were characterized by sin – are now washed, sanctified and justified.

A few clarifying points:

• Paul is referring to civil matters in this text, not criminal. Paul does not permit Christians and their churches to avoid disclosing a crime to the God-ordained secular authorities (Romans 13:1-7).
• Paul understands that some things needing judgment or not considered improper outside the church (e.g., fornication, adultery, gossip, heresy).
• Paul does not forbid a Christian from filing a civil suit against a non-Christian – but then again, what is the heart motivation, eternal perspective, and eschatological understanding of the plaintiff? (Romans 13:1-7; Matthew 5:40).