Off the Shelf Sunday School--1 Corinthians

God Intercedes for Christians (1:18-31)

For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.” Where is the wise man? Where is the scholar? Where is the philosopher of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? For since the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to the Jews and foolishness to the Gentiles, but to those of us whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.

1.    There is nothing in the gospel that appeals to pride or logic. The idea that one person could suffer a humiliating death as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity seems impossible to those who are perishing. However, to those whom God has called and given the gift of faith, it is a precious and wonderous reality. Even angels marvel at the love of God and how he can transform wretched humans into glorious God-like beings. (Heb 2:9; 1 Pet 1:10-12)

2.    The wisdom and ways of God are far beyond human comprehension. Yet people question God and scoff at his methods of salvation. Paul says that the wisdom of man is foolishness to God. We have limited lives, abilities and perspective. Paul says that human knowledge and effort will never come close to understanding or reaching a condition comparable to God. What are some ways that scientists, philosophers and other, so called, wise men have questioned the existence of God? How does thinking according to human wisdom and without faith lead to hostility towards God and Christians?

3.    Critics of Christianity view belief in God as a weakness. They see it as a mental crutch that helps people through the trials of life. Some critics say that they will believe if God performs miracles as evidence that he exists. However, they ignore the miracle of this world, which scientists generally agree shows overwhelming evidence of a creator.

4.    God many times takes ordinary people and does extraordinary things. This is to show his power and mercy. It is also a picture of how he does not choose people for salvation based on their knowledge, wealth or status. Indeed, Jesus said that it is hard, but not impossible, for rich people to enter the kingdom of God. (Mt 19:23-24) What are some reasons why it is harder for a rich, popular or powerful person to be saved? (Mt 23:11-12)