When the Cross and Culture Collide

“When the Cross and the Culture Collide”

1 Corinthians 1:10-31

Introduction: Comparing Corinth with Southern California - Both are built on a culture of self-promotion and obtaining wealth; Both have a lot of young adults who have come to make their mark in their career; Both had a culture of sexuality and pluralism;

I. Self-promoting schisms in the church are contrary to the cross (v. 10-17)

a. The common occurrence of church splits around charismatic leaders

b. Paul’s reaction is not to defend the “Paul party.”

II. Understanding the gospel is not based on intellect (v. 18-25)

a. The scandal of the cross à a method of execution reserved for terrorists and the worst offenders to Roman law

III. Our calling is for the benefit of others as well as ourselves (v. 26-31)

a. Why is the arrogance of the Corinthians so important for Paul to confront?

Questions for prayer and reflection

When someone else gets credit for something you did, how do you react?  Does it matter whether it happens at work, home or church? Why?

How have you seen the church used as a way to gain prestige, power, and influence that might otherwise be lacking from one’s life? 

Verse 31 says that our boasting should be “in the Lord.”  What do you think Paul meant by this?