This short book is an exposition of 1 Corinthians 1-4, focusing particularly on Christian leadership. Stott breaks the four chapters into five sections. The first is on the “ambiguity” of the church – the church is a painful paradox – what it claims to be is not what it seems to be. It is holy yet becoming holy, one yet divided. With regards to holiness he warns of the opposite dangers of perfectionism (failing to appreciate that there will always be sinners in any church) and defeatism (giving up opposing sin and tolerating it in the church).
The second section takes on the theme of power through weakness. Stott explains how the only power of the church is found in Jesus, in the cross and in the Spirit. He warns of the corrupting desire for power, and calls us to examine our motives even when we pray for power – why do we want it? The gospel demonstrates power through weakness, and so should the church. It is important then that leaders exemplify this principle and reject worldly models of leadership.
The third section is on the Spirit and the Scripture. He speaks of the twin gifts of our salvation and the Spirit, before explaining the relationship between the Spirit and the Bible. The Spirit not only inspired the Bible, but illuminates us as we read. He takes some time to clarify what is meant and what is not meant by “verbal inspiration” of Scripture.
The fourth chapter explores various pictures of the church – a field, a building, a temple. A higher view of the church will actually result in a lower view of leaders – as we understand that it is God who gives the growth.
The fifth and final chapter deals directly with the topic of leadership, and calls for loving, gentle and humble leadership as opposed to the autocratic models too often found in churches.
As with all John Stott’s books, this one is marked by careful exegesis and reverent submission to the Word of God. As usual he is humble, gracious, thought-provoking and insightful in his teaching. It could be read in a few hours, and would be useful as a guide for anyone preaching or studying their way through the first four chapters of 1 Corinthians.