Anticipating that his instructions might not suit the Corinthians’ taste, Paul reminds them that they are not the only believers in the world. The gospel (the word of God
) has come to them from outside, and not to them only.
Clearly, this is an important point for Paul (see also 1 Corinthians 11:16; 1 Corinthians 14:33). A local church is not to be individualistic. God’s churches are to be united in the practice of their common faith.
36 Or was it from you that the word of God came? Or are you the only ones it has reached?