Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

Wiser than Man's Wisdom Read 1 Corinthians 1:18–2:5 For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength. 1 Corinthians 1:25 We often forget that to the world the Gospel of Christ is foolish, weak and powerless. Paul reminds us not to add human ‘wisdom’ to improve the acceptability of the cross. The truth is that the cross stands in stark contrast to human wisdom. Firstly, the Gospel’s message is of a crucified Christ-Messiah (v 23). This contradicts human wisdom. Secondly, the Gospel’s recipients seem to be foolish people called to be God’s kingdom-citizens (v 26). Finally, the Gospel’s preacher – Paul, was also a picture of a weakling trembling in fear (v 3). We may try to soften the apparent foolishness of the Gospel, but God will not be so easily boxed-in. God’s love for such undeserving weak people as we are is the true scandal and a stumbling block to those who think of themselves as righteous with no need of forgiveness. Michael Card writes “When we in our weakness believed we were strong, He became helpless to show we were wrong.” To those who know they are undeserving, unlovable and un-saveable, this is the Gospel indeed. The preaching of the cross of Christ precludes all human boasting, and it alone has the power to set ragamuffins like us free. We are called to follow God’s Christ. Many see us as foolish to place our faith in Christ. But we rejoice in Christ, the Power of God and the Wisdom of God.