In Japan, loudly slurping your soup is a compliment, while at a Greek wedding people… spit at the bride, the same gesture can mean completely different things in different cultures. From this amusing observation the sermon leads into 1 Corinthians 11, where Paul writes about head coverings and the Lord’s Supper, about the signs by which Christians, often unknowingly, speak to the world about their faith. For we ourselves are a sign that can point others toward Christ or lead them astray. Listen and ask yourself which way your life is pointing.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Paul explains that in that culture a married woman's covered head was a sign of faithfulness to her husband. What signal were believers in Corinth sending by uncovering their heads, and why could it keep others from Jesus?
- According to 1 Corinthians 11:17-34, what was happening in Corinth at the Lord's Supper, and why does Paul call it eating in an unworthy manner?
- The sermon shows that eating unworthily is not about being good enough, because the Supper is for sinners. How does that change the way you approach the Lord's Supper?
- A missionary to China learned the language, dressed in Chinese clothes and dyed his hair to share the gospel. Where is the line between being sensitive to culture and giving in to what in it needs to change?
- The Lord's Supper was called the most countercultural sign, because at this table there is no division between rich and poor or between nations. What divisions do you see among believers today, and how can we cross them?
- A pastor in the sermon asked: why should I pray for God to remove the only source of light from this dark place? Which direction is your behavior at work, school or home pointing others this week?
