Paolo servo di Dio e padre dei Corinzi in 1Cor 1-4

The purpose of this article is to examine the role of the apostolic ministry of Paul in 1 Cor 1-4. For many commentators, the central theme of these four chapters is the Apostle's exhortation to unity, addressed to the Corinthians. However, Paul's reasoning shows how, underlying the divisions in the community, there is an incorrect vision of the apostle's role which is based on human wisdom. For this reason he describes the evangelizers as ministers and servants of God for the good of the believers.

This paper shows that the point of reference for the community is primarily Paul's apostolic mission and his example of adherence to the logic of the cross. Paul exhorts the Corinthians to be his imitators, inasmuch as he is the "father" of the community, given that he generated them with the proclamation of the Gospel. This interpretation of Paul's apostolic ministry, developed in 1 Cor 1-4, may also be considered a key to interpreting the entire letter.