The Message of the Cross

1 Corinthians 2:9 ESV

But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him”—

1 Corinthians 2:10 ESV

these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.

Q: What are the “these things” revealed by the Holy Spirit?

1. Consider the CULTURE of the Corinthians (the recipients of this letter).

1 Corinthians 1:11–13 ESV

For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarreling among you, my brothers. What I mean is that each one of you says, “I follow Paul,” or “I follow Apollos,” or “I follow Cephas,” or “I follow Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?

2. Consider the CONTEXT of our passage - (1:17)

1 Corinthians 1:17 ESV

For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.

I. The Message of the Cross is the OPPOSITE of what MEN CONSIDER to be TRUE WISDOM! – (1:18-25)

II. The PEOPLE of the Cross are not always the SHARPEST KNIVES in the DRAWER! – (1:26-31)

III. The MESSENGER of the Cross is NEVER to be the FOCUS! – (2:1-5)

Paul reminded them of his APPROACH – (vv.1-2)

Paul reminded them of his ATTITUDE – (vv.3-4)

Philippians 3:3 ESV

For we are the circumcision, who worship by the Spirit of God and glory in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh—

Paul reminded them of his AIM - (v.5)

The POINT: The MESSENGER of the CROSS is NEVER to be the FOCUS!

IV. The Wisdom of the Cross is part of the Father’s ETERNAL PLAN! – (2:6-8)

V. The Message of the Cross is REVEALED by the HOLY SPIRIT! - (2:9-16)

REVELATION - (vv.9-12)

Isaiah 64:4 ESV

From of old no one has heard or perceived by the ear, no eye has seen a God besides you, who acts for those who wait for him.

INSPIRATION - (v.13)

ILLUMINATION - (vv.14-16)