#UnfilteredChurch: Lessons from Corinth about the Cross

In this sermon, Pastor Chris Gregg of First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana, delves into 1 Corinthians 1, addressing the challenges faced by the church in Corinth and drawing parallels to modern believers. The sermon, part of the "#Unfiltered Church" series, focuses on the unifying power of the cross and the church's mission to be salt and light in a diverse and divided world.

Topics Discussed

• Corinth's Context: Corinth, a bustling "Crossroads of Greece," was a diverse, chaotic city, much like Indiana’s nickname, "The Crossroads of America." This diversity led to divisions within the church (1 Corinthians 1:10).
• The Church’s Mission: The church is called to be on mission, embodying the Great Commission to "Guide People Home" and act as a "City on a Hill" (Matthew 5:14). Pastor Gregg emphasizes the risks of absorption (losing distinctiveness by blending into culture) and isolation (withdrawing from the world).
• Division in Corinth: The church was divided over different leaders, causing disunity. Paul appeals for unity in mind and purpose (1 Corinthians 1:10).
• The Message of the Cross: The cross, seen as foolish by Jews (seeking signs) and Greeks (seeking wisdom), is the power and wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). It unifies believers despite cultural expectations.
• God’s Grace and Weakness: God chooses the weak and foolish to shame the strong (1 Corinthians 1:26-31). Grace, unique to Christianity, empowers believers to live dependently on God, finding strength in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-11).
• Practical Application: Believers are urged to respond with compassion, not judgment, meeting people where they are. The cross overshadows sin and failure, offering justification, sanctification, and liberation.

Additional Notes

• The sermon draws from First Christian Church’s mission to lead people into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ, emphasizing outreach and community.
• Pastor Gregg highlights the cultural relevance of Corinth’s challenges, encouraging modern believers to avoid absorbing secular culture or isolating from it.
• The message aligns with the church’s vision to be a welcoming community that guides people home to God.

Links and Contact Information

• Church Website: fccbrazil.org
• Sermon Series: Learn more about the #Unfiltered Church series on the church’s sermons page.
• Social Media:
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• Contact: Reach out at [e-mail] or call [phone] for more information.

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