A. Appeal for Unity (1:10-17)

Paul does not explicitly say that the Corinthians are divided, only that there are quarrels among them. Their need for restoration to unity implies its absence. Apparently the Corinthians gave special allegiance to the leader who baptized them (1:14-17), as in the mystery religions. Paul’s goal was less to destroy all factions than to end factionalism. Furthermore, the contrast between baptism and preaching should not be overemphasized; the real contrast is between the humbling message of the Cross and the arrogance of wisdom.