Paul’s first order of business in 1 Corinthians is to address the quarrels and divisions that were happening in the church. He points out just how foolish the arguments over which leader is best really are. He also calls them out for suggesting that there is a group that considers themselves the “real” Jesus followers in the church. When we allow our differences over theology and practice to take centre stage in the church, we displace the message and power of the empty cross with the emptiness of human wisdom.
