Sermon notes:
1. A fundamental problem in human relationships is pride. We learn it from the world and bring it into the church (and other relationships). (1 Cor 3:1-3)
2. The specific problem in 1 Corinthians 12 is that spiritual gifts became a source of pride. They were dividing the church instead of unifying it.
3. The solution is to exchange pride for Love. (1 Corinthians 13)
4. Love is not what you think it is. It’s not what the world tells you. It’s the opposite of pride.
a) Love does not react to others but instead offers mercy.
b) Love means not putting yourself first.
c) Love isn’t about winning disputes.
d) Love supports what is right and not what is wrong.
e) Love protects others and never gives up.
Review:
Looking back on last Sunday’s message and your notes, what was the most memorable part for you?
Follow-up Questions from Sunday:
Quick Review:
Looking back at your notes from this week’s teaching, was there anything you heard for the first time or that caught your attention, challenged, or confused you?
Icebreaker:
When have you ever felt that you were part of a unit where all the parts worked together for the common good?
Digging Deeper:
1. Pride is sometimes a positive value in today’s world. But the Biblical understanding of pride is often negative and destructive. Read Proverbs 8:13, 11:2, 16:18; Psalm 10:4; 1 John 2:16. What are some characteristics of pride (in the negative sense), based on these verses?
2. Read 1 Corinthians 3:1-3. Paul is frustrated with the Corinthians because he expects them to treat each other differently. What are some of the specific ways they are not treating each other well (see 1 Corinthians 5:1-2; 1 Corinthians 6:1-6; 1 Corinthians 8:9-12; 1 Corinthians 11:17-22)?
3. In 1 Corinthians 12, some in the church are acting prideful because they have the gift of tongues, and regard people who don’t have this gift as being less important than those who do. Read 1 Corinthians 12:4-11. Why isn’t possessing a specific spiritual gift something to take pride in, according to Paul? Now read verses. 21-26. What is the real purpose behind spiritual gifts?
4. In 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Paul argues that without love, spiritual gifts and Christian service are pointless. Why do you think this is?
5. Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 and substitute Jesus’ name for the word “love” and “he” for the word “it.” Now read it again and substitute your name. What are some practical ways you can make this true in your life and relationships as you grow in your faith?
Taking it Home:
What is one thing you can apply to your life from this message and how can this group remember you in prayer this week?