When a conservative visitor from America asked in disbelief why a church would need a ‘rock guitar’, the quick-witted pastor replied that in Polish it sounds like a guitar you can play all year round. This anecdote opens a reflection on the age-old question: how much of the surrounding world can a Christian embrace, and what should be rejected. In 1 Corinthians 11, writing about head coverings and the Lord’s Supper, Paul offers surprisingly practical guidance: ask whether your behavior helps others come to God or stands in their way. Listen before you next face such a choice.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Paul explains that in the Corinthians' day a married woman's head covering meant roughly what a wedding ring means today. According to the sermon, what did removing it communicate, and why did Paul see that as a problem?
- What was the Lord's Supper like in Corinth that Paul calls it eating in an unworthy manner (1 Corinthians 11:17-34)? What did it reveal about relationships between the rich and the poor?
- The sermon describes two kinds of worldly norms: those worth keeping for the sake of others and those to reject because they destroy community. What examples of each do you see around you today?
- When in doubt about clothing, music or hairstyles, the speaker suggests one question: will this help or hinder others in coming to God, and will it strengthen the community? How does that question change the way you see Christian freedom?
- The story from the train, where two Christian strangers share a sandwich and an orange, shows what communion really is. What moves you most in that scene, and what does it teach you about the Lord's Supper?
- What freedom or habit could you give up this week so that you don't hinder someone from hearing the gospel or leave someone in your community overlooked?
