1 Corinthians 1:10–31

Summary

When we seek human power in ministry, we ape the world. But in the message of the cross, we are humbled and God’s work is exalted.

The Problem: Divisions in the Church, Following Human Leaders (vv. 10–17)

The Answer: God’s Method in Ministry (vv. 18–31)

The Message of the Cross Befuddles Human Attempts to Know God (vv. 18–24)

• This is by design (v. 19).
• This is evidenced by the absence of some people (v. 20).
• Jews want signs to evaluate; Greeks want philosophy to contemplate (v. 22).
• It comes in a form they cannot accept (v. 23).

The Message of the Cross Makes Brilliant God’s Work in Those who Believe (vv. 24–25).

• Those whom God calls see Him as powerful and embrace the cross as God’s master stroke (v. 24).
• They show God’s wisdom and power are greater than man’s petty foolishness (v. 25).

The Message of the Cross Illustrates Our Humbleness (vv. 26–31).

• God shames the things our hearts often crave. Why would we pursue ministry according to those things that God’s Gospel nullifies?
• We are humbled; God’s work is exalted through his message.