In verses 1-8, Paul asks the church at Corinth to take up a collection every Sunday. The funds are earmarked to go to Jerusalem to be dispersed to the needy.
In verses 15-26, we learn about some of the politics and growing pains in the early church.
Paul is accused of undermining the Jewish faith. Rather, his intent is to add Gentiles to the family of God-followers.
To demonstrate his continuing obedience to the Law, the Jerusalem leaders ask Paul to sponsor four Jewish men in fulfilling a temple vow.
Gentile believers are told just to follow four rules, about food and sex. No wonder some of our biggest religious controversies and confusion today surround food and sex.
Paul informs his supporters in Ephesus, in verses 17-23, that he plans to return to Jerusalem, despite clear warnings from the Holy Spirit that the political and religious authorities will punish him.
