In this message from 1 Corinthians 1:18–2:5, Gareth unpacks how the cross of Christ—though seen as foolish or weak by the world—is in fact the wisdom and power of God. Paul’s simple gospel message confounded the proud city of Corinth, just as it still does in our city today. We are reminded that our salvation rests not on human effort or intellect, but on God’s grace alone—and this humbles us into worship and bold proclamation.

Related Topics: Grace, The Gospel, Worship | More Messages from Gareth Bowley | Download Audio

From Series: "Gospel Life"

The gospel isn’t just what we believe—it’s what shapes how we live. 1 Corinthians calls us to let Jesus transform every part of our lives, both as a church and as individuals. 1 Corinthians is a letter for messy people in a messy world—it's an honest picture of what happens when imperfect people try to follow Jesus. It is the real gospel being worked out among real people in real life. The church in Corinth believed the gospel, but they hadn’t yet let it shape every part of their lives. They had division in the church, confusion about sexuality and relationships, misuse of spiritual gifts, arrogance, and apathy toward sin. This is a letter as relevant to us in 2025 in Stellenbosch, South Africa as it was to the church in Corinth. Throughout 1 Corinthians Paul is clear that the gospel isn’t just the entry point to Christianity; it’s the pattern for all of life. Through the cross and resurrection, Jesus redefines what power looks like, what love looks like, what maturity looks like, and what it means to be truly spiritual. As we preach through 1 Corinthians we want the gospel to reshape how the people of One Hope Church live in community, how we understand our bodies, how we worship and so much more. It is an invitation to us as a family of God to apply the grace of the gospel to all areas of our lives.