Author: Bryan Gibson

Weekly Bulletin
March 28, 2021

Summary Of 1 Corinthians 1-4
by Bryan Gibson
The Problem: “Divisions” or “Contentions” Among the Brethren (1:10-12; 3:3)
The Cause: Preacheritis, Exalting Men Instead of Jesus Christ (1:12; 3:21), Putting Man’s Wisdom Above God’s Wisdom
The Holy Spirit, through Paul, makes the following points to help correct this problem:
God’s grace was given to you by Jesus Christ; it’s through Him you’ve been enriched; it’s His testimony that was confirmed in you; it’s through Him you’ve been given gifts; it’s Him you’re eagerly waiting to return; it’s Him who can establish you until He returns; the fellowship into which you have been called is in Him (1:4-9).
“Is Christ divided?” (1:13). Of course not! Many members but ONE body (12:12-13).
“Was Paul (or any other man) crucified for you?” (1:13). So why would you who “call on the name of Jesus Christ” (1:2) start calling on the names of men?
“Were you baptized in the name of Paul (or any other man)?” (1:13). Of course not, because you were baptized in the name of Christ, your allegiance is to Him (1:14-17).
Although regarded as foolish by many, only the cross of Christ has the power to save, not the wisdom of men (1:18-29). What man considers wise, God has proven to be foolish.
Bottom line, your salvation is centered in Jesus Christ—He is God's power and God's wisdom; He is your righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. “He who glories (boasts), let him glory (boast) in the Lord” (1:18-25, 30-31).
Your “faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God,” because that’s exactly what I preached to you” (2:1-5). “Jesus Christ and Him crucified”—that was the focus of my message.
In fact, the very words we speak were revealed to us by the Holy Spirit (2:6-13).
The way you exalt men, the way you cause “envy, strife, and divisions”—you’re acting very immature (carnal). Quit thinking like “mere men” and start thinking spiritually, start thinking like servants of Christ (3:1-4).
Regard those who teach you simply as “ministers through whom you believed” (not in whom you believed) (3:5).
God’s fellow workers, that’s what teachers are—one man plants, another man waters, but God gives the increase. “You are God’s field, you are God’s building” (3:6-9).
Why limit yourself by saying, “I am of Paul,” or, “I am of Cephas”? You belong to Christ and therefore all things are yours (3:21-23).
“Servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God” (4:1)—that’s how you should regard those who preach the gospel.
Before you exalt even the apostles, before you put us on display, think about how “God has displayed us,” think about the very humbling circumstances in which He has put us (4:9-13).

Contact Information
	P.O. Box 680872 / Prattville, AL 36067
	(334) 365-5887 / (334) 868-0801
	prattmont@gmail.com / prattmontchurchofchrist.org

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The Prattmont Church of Christ is just what the name suggests, a church that belongs to Christ. We are not a denomination; we are simply a group of Christians trying very hard to practice the teachings of our Head, Jesus Christ. The New Testament offers a complete pattern for what each local church should be like—its organization, its worship, its work, etc. We are committed to following that pattern. We cordially invite you to attend our services. We would also welcome any comments or questions about this bulletin.

TIMES OF SERVICES:
(temporary during pandemic)
Sunday
Bible Classes………...9 A.M.
Worship 10:00 A.M.
Wednesday:
Bible Study 7:00 P.M.