The Historical Context of any passage of First Corinthians will be the historical background in which it was written. It is determined by knowing the facts about the city of Corinth, the people's cultural practices and attitudes etc.

This will give the historical background to the letter.

Along with the broad historical context you must know the specific context that occasioned the writing of the letter (i.e.. what were the Corinthian Church doing that prompted Paul to write such material under the inspiration of the Spirit ?).

So, in interpreting any portion of the letter, you must ask questions such as...

Does it mention any cultural practices of the people in that day and age that may differ from today ?

What is the pervading political, social and religious climate surrounding the Corinthian Christians that prompted Paul to so write ?

What are the specific things the Christians are doing that Paul comments on ?

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