1 Corinthians 1:18-25
Q.1. How do people respond to the word of the Cross? How can we account for the lack of eminent believers? Why do many people find it hard to make sense of the gospel? – (1 Cor.1:18-25)
The word of the Cross divides the world into two groups– For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing … but to us who are being saved it is the power of God (1 Cor.1:18). Scholars cannot figure the gospel out by reason alone because it is counter-intuitive and requires honesty and humility. Paul asked – Where is the wise man? Where is the scribe? Where is the debater of this age? Has not God made foolish the wisdom of the world? (1 Cor.1:20). They say – ‘If something is too good to be true then it probably is not true. Surely salvation cannot be a free gift’. Paul responded – For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not come to know God, God was well-pleased through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe (1 Cor.1:21). Though Christ came with innumerable signs, the Jews still wanted more (see 1 Cor.1:22-23 c.f. Mt.16:1-4). They mocked Jesus and claimed they would believe in Him if He came down from the cross (see Mt.27:39-43). The Greeks loved debating about philosophy and beliefs (see Acts 17:21, 32). Such people fail to recognise the limitations of human wisdom and power, compared with God’s omniscience and omnipotence (see 1 Cor.1:25). Nevertheless – to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God (1 Cor.1:24).