Paul’s Jewish background and his use of scripture have been of enduring interest within New Testament scholarship. This study contributes to this discussion by examining the presence and function of scripture in I Cor. 1:18 - 3:23. The author examines the presence and function of scripture in the form of six citations, two allusions, and seven echoes within I Cor. 1:19 - 3:23. From the examination of the function of these texts, this work concludes that Paul’s use of scripture agrees with its original context and stands in line with a majority of early Jewish tradition. Moreover this study suggests that Paul’s use of scripture also helps to chart a way through a difficult section of his writing.