1 Corinthians 2:6-16
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
Paul says he did not come with eloquent or lofty wisdom (1 Cor. 1:17; 2:1), yet he also says he proclaims "wisdom" (2:6). What is the wisdom Paul imparts, and how does it differ from the wisdom of "this age"? Why is that distinction so important?
Compare the wisdom of this age with the wisdom of God throughout 1 Corinthians 2:6-16. How does Paul describe each one? Where does each one come from? What is the outcome of trusting each one? Why do these contrasts matter for Christians today?
According to verses 7-10, why did the rulers of this age fail to recognize and understand God's wisdom? Why is the wisdom of God not understood by natural human intelligence, philosophy, education, or effort alone (1 Cor 1:21, 29, & 2:10)? What does the word “revealed” in verse 10 teach us about God?
What has God graciously given believers so they can know and understand Him (1 Cor 2:10 & 12)?
Read John 14:26, John 16:13-15, and Ephesians 1:17-18. What do these passages teach about the ministry of the Holy Spirit? According to these verses, how does the Spirit help believers know Christ, understand Scripture, and grow into spiritual maturity?
Today, people often describe someone as "spiritual" because they are emotional, mystical, sincere, or interested in spiritual experiences. How does Paul define true spirituality in this passage? How does the gospel reshape our understanding of what it means to be a truly "spiritual" person?
How is having the mind of Christ different from simply gaining more biblical knowledge? How should possessing Christ's mind shape the way we think, make decisions, and respond to everyday life?
Looking back over verses 6-16, what truths about the Holy Spirit encourage you the most? How does understanding His ongoing work give you confidence, hope, and assurance as you seek to follow Christ?
Where are you most tempted to rely on the wisdom of this world instead of God's revealed wisdom? What would it look like this week to trust the Spirit more fully as you read Scripture, make decisions, or face difficult circumstances?
