1 Corinthians 1:18 – Power of the Cross

“The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God.”  (1 Corinthians 1:18)

If you’ve ever felt alone in this world wondering why nobody else “gets it,” this is a great memory verse of encouragement. As Christians, the message of the cross is key to everything we believe and hold dear. If it wasn’t for the cross, our faith would be meaningless. Thankfully, we aren’t the foolish ones.

Context: Just a handful of verses into the first chapter, Paul is already dealing with big issues with the Corinthians. This verse opens the section in my Bible version called “The Wisdom of God.” This verse not only speaks of God’s wisdom but serves as a wake-up call for those far from God. Paul is urging his brothers and sisters in Corinth to pay attention to God and respect his sovereignty.

Nobody wants to be called foolish. We strive to do everything in our power to look smart or put together. Social media is a great example of that being a platform where people put on their best face when not sharing their epic failures to get attention. But foolishness aside, those people are headed for destruction according to Paul.

As Christians, we recognize that what happened on the cross and following was the power of God revealed. Jesus’ death and resurrection give us hope and promise salvation. That is certainly not a foolish gift at all. Yet do we ever take our future for granted?

We can only pray for those lost souls who think the cross is nonsense. They don’t understand. God has not revealed himself to them. That’s why we have the job we have. It’s up to us to introduce those people to the Jesus who died for us, help them see the majesty of the cross and grave. We are empowered to share when we spend time in God’s Word fueling our hearts and minds with God’s wisdom and not the popular thought of the day.

Are you feeling depleted? Are you needing a jolt of God’s wisdom to ignite your soul? Reflect on the power of the cross and the empty tomb. Remember that all of that was done for you.

Let’s pray. LORD, your wisdom has no bounds. You knew we would need a Savior. Your power was revealed on the cross and what happened three days later. Prepare my heart to receive you and recognize you for who you are. Equip me to complete your mission on earth by helping others understand you and follow you. Forgive me for times I fall short of your perfect plan for my life. LORD, help me keep my eyes focused on you, trusting in you and your power to see me through. In Jesus’ name. Amen.