Jul 23, 2023
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
So far, in this early section of 1 Corinthians, Paul has noted that the gospel of Christ, the message of the cross, is utter foolishness to people who are perishing. Next, he says that the people of God are also considered foolish by the people who are perishing. Now, he notes that the messenger of the gospel is considered foolish by the people who are perishing.
The upshot of this discussion is that God is honored because salvation is from Him and to Him … "that no human being might boast in the presence of God" (1 Cor 1:29). Of himself, Paul says, "my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power" (1 Cor 2:3).
Again, as he has done repeatedly in these paragraphs, Paul lauds the glory of God. He wants the Corinthians, and us, to know that our salvation rests completely on the person of God and not on any human power … "so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God" (1 Cor 2:5).
At the center of salvation and true life is the person and work of Jesus Christ. "I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (1 Cor 2:2). This is the heart of the Christian message and the heart of life itself. Let us rest, and hope and live in communion with Christ.