The power of God

For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. – 1 Corinthians 1.17-19

Paul had one purpose in mind which he repeats over and over again – to preach the gospel. He didn’t claim to be wise. He didn’t claim to be special. If it was reliant on him and his ability it was make the cross ‘of none effect.’

The preaching of the cross seems like foolishness. It does seem a bit crazy when you think about it. How can it be a good thing for your leader to die on a cross?

We know that it is not foolishness. The power of God is seen in the power of the cross.  The cross is the power of God because the Son of God became sin for us.

This is the power of the cross. Christ became sin for us. Took the blame, bore the wrath – we stand forgiven at the cross.

The preaching of the cross is not crazy – it is not foolish. The cross defeated death. The preaching of the cross is our hope for eternity. It is wiser than anything the world has to offer. The cross brings peace in this  age and eternity.

Thank you for the cross Lord, and for the hope and security it provides. Help me be faithful in preaching the cross to those around me.