1 Corinthians_1
Scripture
1 Corinthians 1:18
For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.
Observations - What does it say?
Paul opens this letter with a message on unity in the church. He discusses the things that distract and divide us, like who baptized us or who we first heard the gospel from. As he continues, he contrasts the separation of the church with the one message of the cross. He compares what we know as wisdom through Christ with the wisdom of the world.
Understanding - What does it mean?
As I sat in my biology class during my sophomore year of high school, I remember the teacher discussing the finer points of evolution and thinking, “None of this makes sense.” The look I got from her when I suggested the possibility of an intelligent designer and supernatural creation was something I will never forget. She responded to me in a way as to suggest that one might be inclined to believe this “theory,” but only if they had lost their sense of reason. Suggesting points of the Christian faith often brings similar looks.
It’s funny to think that almost 2000 years ago Christians were having similar issues to what we have today. The opposition that we see against the message of the cross is everywhere touting itself as wisdom. To be honest, it is those looks and opinions that often make me cower from sharing the message of God’s redeeming love with others. All too often I fear what others will think of me.Opposition to the message of the cross is something we should expect. If we were not going to face opposition God would not have told us to “put on the full armor of God, so that we can stand firm against the schemes of the devil.” (Ephesians 6:11) However, when we rely on Him, God gives us a spirit of power and discipline. (1 Timothy 1:7)
Life Application
Dear Lord, thank you for providing Your word to prepare me and sharpen me. Thank you for providing Your body to support me in sharing your message. Help me to keep my eyes on you when it comes time to tell someone of your love. No matter how “embarrassed” I may feel, I know that your love is worth it.
- Levi Thompson