In this powerful sermon delivered on June 22, 2025, at First Christian Church in Brazil, Indiana, Pastor Chris Gregg dives into the transformative message of 1 Corinthians 2:1-16. Addressing a world filled with division—whether over global events like the recent bombing of Iran or local rivalries like Cubs vs. Cardinals fans—Pastor Chris emphasizes that Jesus Christ is the only one big enough to unite us. Drawing from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church, he highlights the simplicity and power of the gospel, urging believers to focus on the message of the cross rather than worldly wisdom.

Key Topics Discussed

Unity Through Jesus: Pastor Chris discusses how countless issues, big and small, can divide us, but Jesus is the unifying force for believers (00:01:04 - 00:01:52).

The Message of the Cross: Paul’s approach to sharing the gospel was not through persuasive speech but through the power of God, a model for all Christians (00:04:22 - 00:05:34).

God’s Hidden Wisdom: The sermon explores the “mysterion” (mystery) of God’s plan, revealed through the Holy Spirit to those who believe (00:07:00 - 00:09:06).

Spiritual vs. Natural Understanding: Pastor Chris explains why some reject the gospel, not due to comprehension but because they deem it worthless without the Spirit’s revelation (00:15:33 - 00:19:02).

Living as Ambassadors: All believers are called to share their faith, valuing the cross through their lives to spark curiosity in others (00:19:30 - 00:22:04).

Prayer and Intimacy with God: The sermon closes with a call to pray fervently for those far from God and to seek God’s specific guidance through prayer and His Word (00:21:00 - 00:25:30).

Useful Timestamps

00:01:04: Introduction to division in the world and the church.

00:04:22: Reading of 1 Corinthians 2:1-16.

00:07:00: Explanation of the “mystery” (mysterion) of God’s wisdom.

00:15:33: Contrast between worldly and godly wisdom.

00:19:30: Call to value the message of the cross in daily life.

00:24:18: Closing prayer for believers and those far from God.

Additional Notes

This sermon is part of a series on the book of First Corinthians, addressing the challenges faced by the early church in Corinth—a community Pastor Chris describes as “really messed up” yet relevant to modern congregations. The message is both an encouragement for believers to deepen their relationship with God and a heartfelt invitation for those exploring faith to encounter Jesus. For those interested in further study, Pastor Chris references Isaiah 64:4 and the parable of the hidden treasure in Matthew 13:44.

Connect with First Christian Church

Website: fccbrazil.org

Social Media: Follow us on all platforms @fccbrazil (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook)

Contact: Reach out via email at info@fccbrazil.org or call (812) 446-1111 for more information or to connect with our community.

Recommended Resources

Bible Gateway for exploring scripture references.

YouVersion Bible App for daily Bible reading plans, including First Corinthians.

Join us next week for the continuation of our First Corinthians series, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear the unifying message of Jesus Christ!

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:
  • Facebook
  • YouTube
• Contact: Reach out at office@fccbrazil.org or call (812) 446-2214 for more information.

Follow First Christian Church on social media for updates on services, events, and more inspiring content!

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Worship Uncoiled is our main worship service for students grades 6-12. Worship Uncoiled meets on Sunday nights from 6:00-8:00 and includes a full meal, a game, prizes, a time of worship, a short practical lesson and a time of small groups. We would love to have you join us. Feel free to contact our student minister, CJ Muston (CJMuston@FCCBrazil) with any questions.