God has it all figured out. We don’t need to doubt that, yet we do at times, thinking we might have a better idea. God’s wisdom has no boundaries. Don’t you agree this is a powerful statement by Paul. “Since God in his wisdom saw to it that the world would never know him through human wisdom, he has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe.”
Paul wanted to remind the young church that God’s wisdom was what they should rely upon, even if they didn’t understand it. In that day, “wisdom” would have been ascribed to people having “exalted knowledge” and the ability to share that knowledge in a polished way. I think of “hoity-toity” circles of people with lots of head knowledge not truly enjoying life and looking down at people with less knowledge than them.
For people like that, what Jesus did on the cross must seem ridiculous. They would not understand at all, no matter who was delivering the message. God saves those who believe by using us and our “foolish preaching.”
“But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.” When we are called to salvation, we can see how the power and wisdom of God is found in Christ. People of that day were expecting their Messiah to be a mighty warrior like King David. Jesus was not what they were expecting. They had a hard time grasping how such a different kind of power and wisdom could possibly save them.
God wants to be in relationship with us and for us to know that he loves us. But we will never truly understand him using our own wisdom. God’s character is revealed to us in Jesus and through his word. Even still, we can’t begin to comprehend who God really is.
Despite our lack of understanding, we can still open our mouths and share what we know God is doing in our lives. We are the best expert in terms of our own faith journey. Our simple message may be exactly what someone else needs to believe in what Jesus did for us.
The gospel message is not a passing scheme or fad. It’s not meant as a “self-help” remedy. It is key to our salvation. Paul lets us know that accumulating knowledge is not the way. Jesus is the way. “God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; he made us pure and holy, and he freed us from sin.”
Take some time today to just reflect on how powerful and wise God is. I know we can’t fully comprehend but try. When we allow ourselves to imagine God’s majesty in terms of his power and wisdom, we may feel like our hearts are exploding with joy. God created everything for us to enjoy and care for. God is in control of so many things we cannot see. “If you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.” He loves you and me!
Let’s pray …
Father God, what a privilege it is to be loved by you. Your power and majesty astound me. I feel like my heart is overflowing with gratitude for what you have done for me. Help me to truly understand and embrace the wisdom of Christ. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
