From 1 Corinthians 1:18-31
A little bit of context is helpful for these verses. Corinth and other cities that had been influenced by Greek culture had an emphasis on philosophy, wisdom, and debate. As a result, the attitude towards these things could be described as idolatry. This created problems because the way God instructs His community to act, the way that Jesus Christ accomplished everything that He did do not conform to how fallen humanity conceives wisdom. So Paul warns and encourages the Corinthians with these words, reminding them that “the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” In a little bit of a shift, Paul then reminds the Corinthians that they came from humble beginnings as a way for God to humble the wise, the strong, and the proud.
These truths still resonate for us. I don’t know how accurate it is to say that our world elevates wisdom – that’s highly debatable. What our modern world does seem to idolize at times is information, intelligence, and debate. As with the Corinthians, the way God works and the way He calls us to live can conflict with these values. We can receive the same encouragement, remembering “the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” So we stay humble and focus on the cross.
Focus on God
We are reminded in these verses that God graciously elevates us beyond what we used to be.
Function in Our Lives
We are encouraged to not idolize wisdom or intelligence.
Topics to Pray About
- Thank God for wisdom and intelligence that brings you closer to Him.
- Confess to God the times where you elevate your own understanding above the Word of God.
- Ask God to bless His people with faithful wisdom.
In His Service,
J. LeBorious