God's Planting and God's Building: Resolving Discord in 1 Corinthians 3: 5-17

This article explores the linked images of field and building in 1 Corinthians 3: 5-17, through which Paul seeks to overcome factions and divisions in the church at Corinth. Following a brief introductory discussion of the difference between simile and metaphor as figures of speech, the article examines how Paul's use of the images, established as metaphor, is grounded in a mutual appreciation of topography, history and culture. In this way Paul is able to draw his hearers back to their primary shared beginnings in the Gospel, and thus to rediscover their unity in Christ. By way of conclusion, some outcomes are suggested for Christian discipleship and ministry today.