1 Corinthians: Part 3

Sunday, February 15, 2026

Main Idea: A maturing church sees that true wisdom is found in the message of Christ crucified.   

Main Passage:  1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5

In light of the 3 points in the sermon, discuss how a maturing church notices and enjoys true wisdom. 

  • Point #1  The message of Christ crucified is true wisdom. (1:18-25)

    • In what ways does the message of the cross still seem ridiculous to people in our culture today? Where do we hear this perspective expressed? 

    • Before you were born again, how did you personally experience the gospel as foolishness?

    • After a new birth, how have you experienced God’s saving power at different points in your life?  

  • Point #2  God’s choice of the weak shows true wisdom. (1:26-31)

  • In what ways do you see yourself fitting into the category of “foolish, weak, or lowly”?  How does this perspective help change you into Christ’s crucified life? 

  • When are you tempted to boast about yourself or about someone else? How might vv. 26-31 help you make much of God instead of infinitely smaller things like yourself and others? 

  • Point #3  The preaching of Christ crucified is true wisdom. (2:1-5)

  • Where in your own life have you sensed fears and inadequacies when living out the faith or sharing the faith?  How might embracing this weakness actually open the door for God’s power to be more evident? 

  • What was the Apostle Paul’s ultimate goal in his ministry as seen in verse 5? 

  • Where in your life right now are you relying more on human wisdom or self-effort than on God’s power? What would it look like to shift that dependence upon God this week? 

Application

  • Teach the Bible in a way that makes much of God, not you.

    • How are you conveying the teachings of the Bible to others? In your talks with others, what clues tell you you’re glorifying God more than promoting yourself?

  • Study the Bible incessantly, passionately, delightfully, prayerfully, and let that study spill over into every aspect of life.

    • What is currently your discipline for prayer and Bible reading/studying? What one adjustment will you make to strengthen your devotion to God’s Word? 

    • In what area do you long for your Bible devotion to bring real change – and why?

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