A fan who legally changed her name to Kanye West, an ear mailed to an actor as a gift, and a baby left on Dolly Parton’s doorstep, how far will people go when they idolize their stars? These stories open a sermon on the church in Corinth (1 Corinthians 3), where the culture of fans and celebrities crept in among believers: some belonged to Paul, others to Apollos, and the community was drowning in quarrels. You will also hear why a well-known American pastor fled from fame, and what remains of a church built on a leader’s charisma instead of on Christ. Listen and check who you are really applauding.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Paul calls the Corinthians worldly because some say "I follow Paul" and others "I follow Apollos." Why does he see jealousy and quarrels over teachers as a sign of spiritual immaturity?
- Paul describes the church as God's field, where one plants, another waters, but God gives the growth, and as a building on the only foundation, Jesus Christ. What do these images say about the role of leaders in the church?
- The sermon says there is no room in the church for competitors, only for co-workers. Where in a community of believers is it easiest for competition to replace cooperation, and what drives it?
- According to the sermon, there is a fine line between promoting Christ and promoting ourselves. How can you tell when someone, including you, crosses that line in ministry?
- A pastor in California heard people in the church lobby mention his name more often than the name of Jesus, and he chose to leave for a less spectacular ministry. Why is it so easy to admire people more than Christ?
- Returning from the Moon, astronaut James Irwin realized he was not a celebrity but a servant of God. What is one concrete way you can work together with others to build the church this week instead of seeking recognition for yourself?
