1 Corinthians 4:6-21
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
1 Corinthians 4:6-21
1. Paul warns the Corinthians not to “go beyond what is written” or become “puffed up” against one another (v. 6). Where are you tempted to become overly confident in your own opinions or judgments? How does submitting to God’s Word cultivate humility?
2. Why are pride and arrogance so damaging to the church? How do they affect our relationship with others?
3. Paul asks, “What do you have that you did not receive?” (v. 7). What are you most tempted to take credit for or boast in?
4. How does remembering that everything is received by grace destroy the root of our pride and change the way we view ourselves and others?
5. If grace produces gratitude, what might a lack of gratitude reveal about our hearts? How can practicing gratitude help you fight pride?
6. In verses 8–13, Paul contrasts the Corinthians’ desire for wisdom, strength, and honor with the apostles’ willingness to be weak, dishonored, and sacrificial for the sake of Christ. What makes the apostles willing to suffer and sacrifice so much for people who seemingly don’t care or appreciate it? What do we learn from them about following Jesus (cf. Phil 1:29-30)?
7. Paul warns the Corinthians as his “beloved children” (vv. 14–15). How does knowing someone loves you and is committed to your good affect the way you receive correction?
8. Paul urges the Corinthians to imitate him and his “ways in Christ” (vv. 16–17; cf. 11:1). Why is that not a prideful invitation? Who is Paul ultimately calling them to imitate?
9. Who has shown you what it looks like to follow Jesus with humility, sacrifice, endurance, and love? What have you learned from their example—and who might be learning to follow Jesus by watching you?
10. Paul says the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power (v. 20). What evidence of the gospel’s transforming power should be visible in a Christian’s life? Where do you want to see more of that transformation in your own life?
11. Where is pride most evident in your life right now, and how does remembering that everything you have is grace call you to think or live differently this week?
