ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.
Listen "The Corinthian Complex: The Powerful Foolishness of the Cross - 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 - Chris Richards- January 12, 2025"
Episode Synopsis
In this sermon, Chris Richards explores the theme of "The Powerful Foolishness of the Cross" based on 1 Corinthians 1:18-31. He begins by introducing the main idea that the cross of Christ serves as both a foolish and powerful cure for the aches of our hearts.
Chris reflects on the earlier message about being made complete in Christ, addressing the rivalries and divisions within the Corinthian church. He emphasizes the church's inclination to follow different personalities rather than uniting under Christ, ultimately leading to confusion.
He reads from 1 Corinthians, highlighting how the cross is viewed differently: for some, it is a symbol of foolishness, while for others, it represents the power of God. Chris elaborates on the historical context of the cross, describing it as a tool of crucifixion—an instrument of humiliation and suffering, yet a powerful symbol of redemption.
The sermon identifies two mentalities that challenge the message of the cross: legalism, which emphasizes being good enough to be saved, and relativism, which suggests that one is already good enough as they are. Richards emphasizes that true salvation comes not from personal effort but through the work of Christ.
He then discusses the inclusivity of the cross, which invites all, including the least, lame, and loveless, into a relationship with God. He stresses that followers of Jesus naturally talk about the cross and what it represents.
Finally, Chris acknowledges the complexity of life that can make it difficult to see the beauty of the cross, but he encourages the congregation to embrace its transformative power. He concludes by inviting the congregation to engage in a moment of reflection, contemplating their relationship with the cross and how it impacts their lives, emphasizing the hope and life it brings to believers.
Chris reflects on the earlier message about being made complete in Christ, addressing the rivalries and divisions within the Corinthian church. He emphasizes the church's inclination to follow different personalities rather than uniting under Christ, ultimately leading to confusion.
He reads from 1 Corinthians, highlighting how the cross is viewed differently: for some, it is a symbol of foolishness, while for others, it represents the power of God. Chris elaborates on the historical context of the cross, describing it as a tool of crucifixion—an instrument of humiliation and suffering, yet a powerful symbol of redemption.
The sermon identifies two mentalities that challenge the message of the cross: legalism, which emphasizes being good enough to be saved, and relativism, which suggests that one is already good enough as they are. Richards emphasizes that true salvation comes not from personal effort but through the work of Christ.
He then discusses the inclusivity of the cross, which invites all, including the least, lame, and loveless, into a relationship with God. He stresses that followers of Jesus naturally talk about the cross and what it represents.
Finally, Chris acknowledges the complexity of life that can make it difficult to see the beauty of the cross, but he encourages the congregation to embrace its transformative power. He concludes by inviting the congregation to engage in a moment of reflection, contemplating their relationship with the cross and how it impacts their lives, emphasizing the hope and life it brings to believers.
In God we trust