Last night we were looking at 1 Corinthians 1 and the message of the cross. It was really encouraging to be reminded that the cross is the only way of salvation, that it is God's wisdom revealed and that it is not for the clever or noble or rich. But it is for those whom God calls.
But I think what struck me in particular was verse 17 "For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, less the cross of Christ be emptied of its power." Preaching the gospel is not about human wisdom, about our eloquence or abilities it is about faithfully proclaiming the gospel as best we can and God calling and working in people.
The message of 1 Corinthians is a reminder that we don't need charismatic or brilliant leaders and preachers but those who will faithfully "preach Christ crucified". It is a call not to let worldly views of leadership leach into the church, as the church at Corinth had.
How often do you explain the gospel, or take a friend to hear the gospel explained and come away thinking, how come they don't get it? How can they not see it! Well 1 Corinthians 1 reminds us that "the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing". A crucified Messiah was an impossibility for Jews and an absurdity for Greeks, but it is God's message of salvation, it is God's wisdom revealed. So we shouldn't be surprised that people don't get it, unless God is working in their lives already.
What a fantastic encouragement as we seek to share the great news of Jesus birth, life, death, resurrection and its meaning with those we live and work alongside, in weakness, fear, and trembling. The cross "is the power of God" and as we pray and share that message God Will work in those he has called through his Spirit and his power.
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