Who does 1 Corinthians 1:2 include when it says 'called to be saints'?
The phrase includes the whole assembly of believers: everyone at Corinth, everyone in the surrounding area, and all who call upon the name of Jesus Christ, extending right down to believers at this present day and time. Thus it is not limited to the original recipients.
Les explains that 1 Corinthians 1:2 gives a graphic description of every believer—everyone at Corinth, everyone in the area around Corinth, and even right on down to us at this day and time. This overall description is of the assembly of believers who are called saints and to all those who call upon the name of Jesus Christ. The surrounding verses continue with grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, and Paul thanks God for the grace given by Jesus Christ. Les also notes that few professing Christians comprehend the grace of God, often viewing God as a demanding lawgiver, while the vilest sinner remains the object of God’s love and attention because of His grace. The congregation was carnal, not spiritual giants.
Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours:
More Questions
Who is 1 Corinthians 1:2 written to, and does it include believers today?
Paul's greeting in verse 2 addresses not only the believers at Corinth and the surrounding area but also believers today, described as the assembly of believers who are called saints and all those who call upon the name of Jesus Christ.
Does 1 Corinthians 1:2 describe believers today or only the church at Corinth?
Paul's description in 1 Corinthians 1:2 is not limited to the original readers; it still covers the assembly of believers today — those called saints and all who call upon the name of Jesus Christ.