Fellowship of Fools (1:18-2:5)

v. 17 I believe Paul came to understand that people aren't often argued or impressed into the kingdom. This can be seen from a study of the phrase 'reasoned in the synagogue' in Acts 17-18. The positive results of this tactic had declined by the time Paul went to Corinth. And so he simply preached Christ crucified to them. He no longer relied on fancy rhetoric or sparkly persuasion, but preached the offensive cross.

v. 18-21 The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing.
Isaiah 29:14
Isaiah 33:18
Wisdom never got us to God
God initiates
You win them to what you win them with (if you win them with the latest intellectual argument, you could lose them to the same)

Jews seek signs (power)
Greeks seek wisdom
Paul preached Christ crucified and the result is true wisdom and true power

v. 26 Most Christians come to Christ at a low-point

v. 27-28 The goal of God is still to get us all

Here there is no boasting
ie. I was given a special sign!
ie. I was smart enough to understand God

2:2 Paul's valuable lesson
Are we trying to win people by being the most impressive show in town?
Or are we preaching Christ crucified and letting the lost emerge as found?

Michael Card: God's Own Fool.