This sermon shows how Paul used repeated terms and themes to demonstrate how God chose unexpected people to shame the rebellious world’s system. The term for “chose” from the Greek is used three times in these verses with three purpose clauses. The purpose is to “shame” what is deemed desirable by those who believe in various versions of works. Ultimately God’s choices destroy the false values that are facing His judgment. These are “brought to nothing.” We show how this is in keeping with many Old Testament themes by citing a number of key passages. No one wanted a crucified Jewish Messiah. Every possible system of works produces boasting. But this type of boasting can never stand in the presence of God. Since every system the world has ever produced is based on merit and works, boasting is inevitable. But God has rendered such boasting futile, hopeless and utterly foolish. The only valid boast is what God has done for us, not what we think we can do for God.