The verse 1 Corinthians 1:1 in the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible reads: "Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother."

This verse marks the beginning of the first letter of Paul to the Corinthians, and it serves as both an introduction to the letter and a declaration of Paul's authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ. The verse highlights Paul's understanding of his role as an apostle, and it sets the tone for the entire letter by emphasizing his authority and the divine nature of his calling.

The first part of the verse, "Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God," immediately establishes Paul's authority in the eyes of the Corinthians. Paul is not just claiming to be an apostle; he is emphasizing that his calling to this role comes directly from Jesus Christ and is in accordance with the will of God. This underscores the divine nature of Paul's authority and reinforces the idea that he speaks with the backing of both Jesus and God.

The verse then goes on to mention Sosthenes, who is described as "our brother." Sosthenes was a prominent figure in the Corinthian church, and his inclusion in the greeting may have served to add weight to the authority of Paul's message. It also highlights the communal nature of the early Christian church, where believers were seen as part of a larger spiritual family.

The themes present in this verse include the authority of the apostles, the divine calling of those who serve in leadership roles within the church, and the importance of unity and community among believers. Paul's reference to his calling as an apostle through the will of God serves as a reminder to the Corinthians that his message is not his own, but rather comes from a higher authority, and it is an important theme that will be developed further throughout the letter.

The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance. The Corinthian church was a community that was struggling with divisions and conflicts, and Paul's letter addresses these issues. By asserting his authority as an apostle right from the beginning, Paul is setting the stage for the things he is about to address in the rest of the letter. He is establishing himself as a figure of leadership and guidance for the Corinthians, and he is asserting that his message comes directly from Jesus Christ and is in accordance with the will of God.

The symbolism in this verse lies in the titles and positions mentioned. Paul's role as an apostle carries great weight and authority within the early Christian church, and his reference to being "called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God" is symbolic of the divine authority that underpins his message. This language establishes a hierarchy and a clear line of spiritual authority, with Jesus Christ at the top, followed by God, and then Paul as the chosen vessel to deliver their message.

In conclusion, 1 Corinthians 1:1 in the KJV is a foundational verse that sets the tone for the entire letter and establishes Paul's authority as an apostle of Jesus Christ. It serves to remind the Corinthians of the divine calling and authority that underpins Paul's message, and it lays the groundwork for the themes of leadership, unity, and divine authority that will be further developed in the letter. The verse is significant not only for its immediate context but also for its broader implications about the nature of authority and leadership within the Christian church.