Looking Ahead: Q's for Gathering 1/18

GATHERING: Q'S from next Sunday January 18

Exalting Jesus through a foolish message (Will Rutt)

Text: I Corinthians 1:10-25

Context: Paul begins his concerns with the Corinthian church, divisions answered by the foolish message of the cross. Paul is kind to love them while boldly addressing their sins.

1. Relationship: Whether parents or coach or otherwise - who is someone who encouraged you before discipline/rebuke and it worked well - how can we model that?

2. Text: Read I Corinthians 1:10-25. Don't rush. What stands out?

3. Paul is not only comfortable but courageous about both praising the good AND calling out the bad (see 3:1-3, 5:1, 6:7-8). Why is this so important for us as believers? Why is it rarely practiced? Why is it hard for you (personally) to hear?

4. V10-17: Why was the church dividing, and what was Paul's solution? We often say, "the solution to division is not unity - it's maturity." Why is this true?

5. When you've been in a divisive situation, that is resolved with unity - what helped make that happen?

6. V21: Paul contrast God's wisdom with the world's wisdom. How would you define each? (hint - see V22-3) Can you think of an illustration of each?

7. Growth: What is a key application you take from this passage / message?

8. Prayer