The Cross Is Still Needed

“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. 18 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:17, 18

He had preached what he, at the time no doubt, thought was a powerful sermon. He met them on their own ground, philosophy with philosophy, even using poetry from their own. He had poured out his soul using logic, eloquence, sophistication. With oratory skills none could refute, he had exposed the fallacies of their religion, contrasting their truth with God’s truth.

But, except for a very few, the hearts of the people weren’t touched. What a tragedy that they didn’t understand the Message or choose to accept Him who sent it. Instead, at Mars’ Hill, the people had been focused on the messenger. His giftedness at oratory, something highly regarded by the men of Athens, and the foolishness of his message.

In Corinth, Paul pondered this evangelistic presentation and the results, and determined his future course of action: “For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” 1 Corinthians 2:2

He would preach Christ and Him crucified, he had learned from his own personal experience that only when a sinner beholds the love of the Father as seen in the sacrifice of His Son will there be a desire to yield to divine influence. Only then can a change of heart take place and Christ become all in all.

In some respects the world hasn’t changed much has it? Skepticism, human logic and social ills still prevail. People can still focus on the humanness of the messenger while missing a divine message. The need for the gospel hasn’t changed either. John Doe still needs to see and hear the story of God’s love. He needs to know God intimately, and know why Jesus died for him. What a friend he will find. What a joy will flood his soul.

Have you determined to know Jesus intimately, and to help others do the same? Maranatha

Pastor Mike Wise