1 Corinthians 1:18-24
“For Jews demand signs and Greeks desire wisdom, but we proclaim Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles,” vss. 22-23
For centuries Christian apologists and theologians have written books and published scholarly articles in an effort to present the gospel message in an orderly and systematic way. Much of their writing and reasoning has been masterfully done and has brought satisfaction to countless readers. But still skeptics remain–some of them deeply committed followers of Jesus. Their common response is “this just doesn’t make any sense!” And they’re right! As Paul indicates, the core teaching of Christianity, that the Christ was crucified, is a stumbling block for some and foolishness to others. It doesn’t make sense! Think of it! The one sent by God to be the messiah, the savior of the world, was executed for a capital crime. He died an ignominious death in isolation, abandoned by most of his followers, and the object of derision and scorn. Whoever heard of such a messiah? No wonder Paul had a problem convincing anyone to become a disciple…it was a foolish message. But Paul and others kept on proclaiming the crucified messiah and in the process discovered a power that transformed the world. In our time, some would like to just focus on the teachings of Jesus and forget about the folly of the cross. But it just doesn’t work! Without a crucified messiah, the gospel has no power! Whether we like it or not!
Thought for the Day: How do I try to make sense of the gospel?
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