Jul 10, 2023
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
The first issue in the Corinthian church to which Paul addresses himself is the problem of divisions, borne out of personal pride. To challenge that problem, Paul elevates Christ and His work. Once Jesus is contemplated deeply, humility is the inevitable result.
In 1 Corinthians 1:18-25, Paul contrasts two views of the cross of Christ … the human assessment and the divine assessment. Humanly speaking the cross of Christ is either narrow and extreme, from a religious standpoint … or unnecessary and foolish, from a secular standpoint (1 Cor 1:22,23).
From the viewpoint of God (the only viewpoint that ultimately matters) and those who hope in Christ, the cross is the means of God displaying His power to change the rebellious human heart into a humble heart of trusting God.
In His infinite wisdom, God has devised a plan of salvation that exalts Him and humbles the proud human heart. The decisivefactor in someone becoming a Christian is the individual call of God to that person. Regarding God's salvation, Paul uses some form of the word 'call' four times (1 Cor 1:2,9,24,26). God has designed His salvation this way "so that no human being might boast in the presence of God" (1 Cor 1:29). Let us bow before our God in deep humility and utter wonder that He would call our name.