Sermon Discussion Questions
1. In verses 1–2, why does Paul deliberately avoid employing carefully crafted speeches and intellectual appeal? What does he endorse in its place?
2. In verse 3, why might Paul have felt “fear and trembling”? See Acts 18:5–13.
3. In verses 4–5, instead of entertaining speeches with insightful observations, Paul says his words were a demonstration of the Spirit and of power. What did he mean?
Is he referring to signs and wonders? Spiritual gifts like tongues and prophecy? What evidence does he give of the power of the Spirit in his message?
4. What are some examples in contemporary American Christianity of movements that are trying to win people to Christ by employing clever marketing appeal? What should we be watching for, and guarding against, in our church?