1 Corinthians 1 · Grade 4
The Power of the Cross
Read and Think
Paul had started the church in Corinth. In this letter he begins with thanks. God had enriched them in speech and knowledge, and they lacked no gift while they waited for Jesus to return. Paul reminds them that God is faithful, and He would keep them strong to the end.
Then Paul turns to a problem. People from Chloe's household told him there were contentions in the church. Groups were forming around favorite teachers. Paul asked whether Christ is divided or whether Paul was crucified for them. Unity comes from belonging to Christ, not from following a human leader.
Greeks seek after wisdom (1:22), and many people thought a crucified Savior made no sense. Paul says the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are dying, but it is the power of God to those who are being saved. God chose the foolish, weak, and lowly things of the world so that no one could boast before Him. Anyone who boasts should boast in the Lord.
Show What You Know
Who told Paul about the quarrels?
What were the groups forming around?
Why did many people think the cross was foolish?
Why did God choose weak and lowly things?
Word Bank Fill-In
Use the word bank to fill in each blank.
- had enriched them in speech and knowledge, and they lacked no gift while they waited for Jesus to return.
- Greeks seek after (1:22), and many people thought a crucified Savior made no sense.
- God chose the foolish, weak, and lowly things of the so that no one could boast before Him.
Think About It
Paul wanted the church to be united. What can you do to help your church family get along?
God chose weak and lowly things to show His power. How does that encourage you when you feel small?
Memory Verse
“For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are dying, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
1 Corinthians 1:18 (WEB)
Copy It
Prayer
Dear God, thank You for being faithful to me. Help me . Amen.
Take It Home
For families: talk about these together.
- What is a saint in Paul's letter?
- How can you help your church stay united?
Scripture: World English Bible, public domain, eBible.org. © 2026 The Daily Rooted. Free to print and copy for church and home use; not for resale. Original line art.