There is a huge need for godly wisdom today. In this week’s Connect podcast we dive into God’s Word to discover how to be wise and make better decisions as we continue our study of 1 Corinthians. In chapter 2, we’ll get into why we should keep the message of Jesus simple. We will also hear a powerful testimony from our friend, Shaun Fraley. Click the video about or the audio link below to listen in now.
Those in the church in Corinth knew Jesus’ love and the way to follow Him, but chose to live just like the world around them. So they started taking sides. They were choosing one leader over another. As a result, the church started dividing. Their relationships started breaking apart, and the people were out to get each other.
Instead of building bridges, they were building walls.
Paul knew he had a job to do to share the good news of Jesus. His effectiveness was slowed down because of the division in the church. So, in 1 Corinthians 2:1-5, he wrote to them:
When I first came to you, dear brothers and sisters, I didn’t use lofty words and impressive wisdom to tell you God’s secret plan. 2 For I decided that while I was with you I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified. 3 I came to you in weakness—timid and trembling. 4 And my message and my preaching were very plain. Rather than using clever and persuasive speeches, I relied only on the power of the Holy Spirit. 5 I did this so you would trust not in human wisdom but in the power of God.
At its heart, the gospel is very simple: Jesus gave his life for you. It’s not complicated. It’s all about grace. It’s all about Jesus.
Paul is saying, “It’s not about me, it’s about God and His power”
It’s easy for us to fall into the same trap today of Idol worship – We set people on pedestals because we can see them. God is invisible, and you can’t see Him. Especially with the influence of the internet, it’s easy for us to lift up Christian idols of celebrity.
When you look at Paul, you see God’s power at work through him.
We have a story. It’s the message of Jesus and it’s true and powerful. We have the story of Jesus and who He is and what He did.
If it’s complicated, it appeals to our sense of pride. Instead, people need to be more impressed with God and His grace. That’s the focused message that we must share with the world.