A king of the Chicago underworld was buried in a coffin built in the shape of a luxury Cadillac, wearing a pink suit, with a hundred-dollar bill tucked between his fingers. This story opens a reflection on 1 Corinthians 1 and on what truly gives a person worth: wealth, education, status, or something else entirely. Paul shows that God chose what the world considers foolish and weak, and the seemingly unwise message of the cross turns out to be His power. Listen and see what you are building your worth on.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- Paul writes that the message of the cross is a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Greeks (1 Corinthians 1:18-25). Why was it so hard for each group to accept?
- The Corinthians split into groups around Paul, Apollos and Peter, prizing eloquence and wisdom. What criteria do you most often use today to judge yourself and others?
- The sermon says we still chase new spiritual methods or extraordinary signs instead of the simple message of Christ crucified. Where do you notice that temptation in yourself?
- The gospel was compared to the tiny gun in the film that turns out to have enormous power. How do you experience the power of the simple truth of the cross in your life?
- God chose what the world sees as weak and lowly so that no one could boast before Him. What changes in you when you realize your worth does not depend on wealth, education or looks?
- The man buried in a Cadillac-shaped coffin with a banknote between his fingers reminds us we take none of it with us. How can you rest your sense of worth more on God's grace and love this week?
