Rely on God's Power Though it is Foolish to the World
Scripture Passage: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 (NASB)
18 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. 19 For it is written,
“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise,
And the cleverness of the clever I will set aside.”
20 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? 21 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. 22 For indeed Jews ask for signs and Greeks search for wisdom; 23 but we preach Christ crucified, to Jews a stumbling block and to Gentiles foolishness, 24 but to those who are the called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.
SUMMARY
Paul writes about how Jesus’ act on the cross is the source of wisdom and power of God to those who believe. Earthly understanding doesn’t stand a chance against God. He makes the wisdom of the world foolish. The world through its wisdom didn’t come to know God, but it was the gospel that brought wisdom and power to those who believe.
MEDITATION & REFLECTION
Everything that Jesus did went against worldly understanding. To those who don’t understand the gospel, what Christ did on the cross seems foolish because worldly understanding cannot grasp God’s love and power. However, the gospel is such a powerful source of wisdom and victory. Just like the Jews and the Greeks, I fall into fear and ask for signs to prove God's power and search for understanding through secular knowledge. It’s hard to let go of my own understanding and trust in God especially during uncertain times. But verse 20 reminded me that God is more powerful and knowledgeable than the wisest, smartest person on earth. The power of the gospel surpasses all knowledge and understanding. Another verse that stood out to me was verse 25, “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” It may seem foolish explaining the gospel to people, especially intellectuals. Even I underestimate the power of God and the wisdom that comes from His word sometimes. I crumble when it comes to sharing the gospel with those who have such worldly knowledge. But God is pleased when I am bold and "foolish" for Him. Ultimately, the gospel is the only thing that will save man. No amount of worldly knowledge will ever come close.
APPLICATION
I choose to fully trust in God and hold onto what Jesus did on the cross. I may not be the wisest or most knowledgeable person in the world, but God gives me wisdom and understanding through His word. I realize that I tend to try and gain knowledge in order to feel like I have control and understanding over my life and over others. I will not fall into that fear but instead turn to God's wisdom and power. When I share the gospel, I will do so with confidence and not fear over being seen as foolish.
PRAYER
Dear Heavenly Father,
Your love surpasses all knowledge and understanding. You are so powerful, you make foolish the wisdom of the world. You overcome any debater, scholar, and wise man. Lord help me lean on you rather than my own understanding. Help me to live a life pleasing to you even though it may seem foolish to the world. I trust in you and the power of your gospel. I pray that you will use me as your mouthpiece as I teach others about you. I pray that I will be a light in this world. Give me boldness and understanding through you. I thank you for your word and the power that came through your son Jesus Christ. I pray all these things in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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