1 Corinthians 1:26-31

Introduction:

1. This series will focus on some of the lesser-known names in the Bible to highlight the significance of every member of this body.

2. We tend to get caught up in the “big things” people do in the church and the “big personalities” involved in the doing of those things.

3. This sadly devalues the indispensable contributions of those working behind the scenes.

Discussion:

I. Misplaced Glory

A. Being wowed by flashy things is not unique to our place and time.

B. Note some of the issues Paul raised in 1 Corinthians.

1. They argued over who baptized them, glorifying men over God (1:10-12; 3:1-4).

2. The appeal of grandiosity obscured the gospel (1:18-20; cf. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4).

3. It appears the wealthy used the Lord’s Supper to flaunt their wealth (11:18-22).

4. The Corinthians even misused spiritual gifts in pursuit of notoriety (14:5-25).

II. Consider Your Calling

A. Solving this misplaced glory demands rearranging our perception of what is truly grand.

B. Jesus came to turn the whole order upside-down.

1. The first shall be last, He said (Matthew 19:30; 20:16; Mark 10:31; Luke 13:30).

2. Likewise, greatness is achieved in servitude (Matthew 20:26; Luke 22:26; Philippians 2:5-8).

3. Paul employed the same logic in addressing the Corinthians (1:26-2:5; 3:5-9; 14:26).

III. Many Members but One Body

A. Paul powerfully proved the indispensability of every member of the body (12:12-31a).

1. He began with the equality of station in Christ (12:12-13).

2. Then he turned to the diverse gifts employed to meet diverse needs (12:14-17).

3. Finally, he concluded with the indispensable value of every part as the body is dysfunctional in the absence of any one of its members (12:18-31a).

B. From 12:31b-13:13, he showed love is the greatest gift within the body.

Conclusion:

1. The aim of this series is to encourage those who may think little of their contribution.

2. This body cannot function properly without every single one of its members because God arranged the body in just such fashion (12:18, 22-24).

Further Food for Thought

1. Have you ever felt like your contributions were insignificant?

2. Worse yet, have you ever been guilty of thinking another’s contributions were insignificant?

3. How can we collectively make sure no one falls into either of these snares of the devil?