1 Corinthians 1

Paul is writing to a church in conflict. It is obvious from his two letters to the church in Corinth that he can get frustrated with them. Corinth is a seaport and a very modern city with wealth and all the vices that go with too much money. Paul calls himself an apostle as he greats the faithful. As he often does, Paul gives thanks for his fellow Christians. He reminds them of their ability to think and the various gifts they display (he will deal with both issues later.) He realizes that life in community is always a challenges but he encourages the church to call on God for help. God always delivers.
Now to the issues. There is division in the church. Unity (which mean all embrace the same vision) and not uniformity (which means everyone acts alike) is a problem. Factions have arisen. Faith is in Christ and not in a human being who may have baptized you our lead you to faith. Here lie the dangers of leaders so charismatic that the Gospel is forgotten. Divided people are powerless. Stick with the Cross as a rallying point and not personalities. The Cross is eternal, people are not that consistent.
True wisdom (Greeks like wisdom) comes from embracing the foolishness (die to live) of the Cross. Miraculous sings and clever thought do not save a person (get them through life.) The Cross shaped life, in all its seemingly foolish ways, holds real power. Real influence and status come not from rank or the ability to draw a crowd. True status comes from the ability to reflect God though a life dedicated to Christ and shown in Cross-shaped living.