Verse
Context
The Message of the Cross
17For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with words of wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the preaching of the cross - Ὁ λογος γαρ ὁ του σταυρου, The doctrine of the cross; or the doctrine that is of or concerning the cross; that is, the doctrine that proclaims salvation to a lost world through the crucifixion of Christ. Is to them that perish foolishness - There are, properly speaking, but two classes of men known where the Gospel is preached: απολλυμενοι, the unbelievers and gainsayers, who are perishing; and σοζομενοι, the obedient believers, who are in a state of salvation. To those who will continue in the first state, the preaching of salvation through the merit of a crucified Savior is folly. To those who believe this doctrine of Christ crucified is the power of God to their salvation; it is divinely efficacious to deliver them from all the power, guilt, and pollution of sin.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
preaching, &c.--literally, "the word," or speech as to the cross; in contrast to the "wisdom of words" (so called), Co1 1:17. them that perish--rather, "them that are perishing," namely, by preferring human "wisdom of words" to the doctrine of the "cross of Christ." It is not the final state that is referred to; but, "them that are in the way of perishing." So also in Co2 2:15-16. us which are saved--In the Greek the collocation is more modest, "to them that are being saved (that are in the way of salvation) as," that is, to which class we belong. power of God--which includes in it that it is the wisdom of God" (Co1 1:24). God's powerful instrument of salvation; the highest exhibition of God's power (Rom 1:16). What seems to the world "weakness" in God's plan of salvation (Co1 1:25), and in its mode of delivery by His apostle (Co1 2:3) is really His mighty "power." What seems "foolishness" because wanting man's "wisdom of words" (Co1 1:17), is really the highest "wisdom of God" (Co1 1:24).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the preaching of the cross,.... Not of the Christian's cross, which he is to take up and bear for the sake of Christ; though this is a doctrine taught by Christ, and his apostles, and found to be true by the saints in all ages; and is what is had in great aversion and contempt, being very disagreeable to the natural man: but of the cross of Christ, the doctrine of salvation by a crucified Christ; or the doctrine of peace and reconciliation by the blood of his cross, and of righteousness, pardon, atonement, and satisfaction by the offering up of himself upon it as a sacrifice for sin, is here intended; and which is foolishness in the esteem of many; and that because man's wisdom has no hand either in forming the scheme of it, or in the discovery of it to the sons of men; and besides, being revealed, it is very disagreeable to the carnal reason of man. This way of preaching is very impolite and unfashionable, and therefore despised; it is a doctrine which is not received by the wise and learned, but has been in all ages loaded with reproach, stigmatized either as a novel or licentious doctrine, and attended with persecution; though the only doctrine God owns for conversion, which administers comfort to distressed souls, and is food for the faith of believers; yea, it is a display of the highest wisdom; is what angels approve of, and desire to look into; is wiser than the wisdom of men; it has made foolish the wisdom of this world, and is what is only able to make a man wise unto salvation; and yet this doctrine is accounted foolish, yea foolishness itself; but to whom is it so? to them that perish. All mankind are in a lost and perishing condition, by reason of sin, and want of righteousness. There are some who shall not perish; the Father has chose them unto salvation, the Son has redeemed them, and the Spirit sanctifies them; but there are others who do perish in their sins; wicked and ungodly men, Carried away with their own lusts and blinded by Satan, the god of this world: these are they that are lost, to whom the Gospel is hid, and who judge it foolishness; but their judgment of it is not to be regarded, being no more capable to judge of the glory and wisdom of the Gospel, than a blind man is of colours: but unto us which are saved; who are chosen in Christ unto salvation; whose persons and grace are secured in Christ, and in the everlasting covenant; for whom Christ has wrought out salvation; and to whom it is applied by the Spirit of God; and who are kept unto the full enjoyment of it by divine grace: to thest is the power of God; organically or instrumentally; it being the means of quickening them when dead in sin, of enlightening their dark minds, of unstopping their deaf ears, of softening their hard hearts, and of enemies making them friends to God, Christ, and his people: and it is likewise so declaratively, there being a wonderful display of the power of God in the ministration of it; as may be seen when observed who were the first preachers of it, men of no figure in life, of no education, illiterate mechanics, very mean and abject; into these earthen vessels were put the treasure of the Gospel, that the excellency of the power might appear to be of God, and not man; as also the doctrine they preached, a crucified Christ, disagreeable to the wisdom of men; the manner in which they spread it, not by force of arms, by carnal weapons, but spiritual ones; moreover, the opposition they met with from rabbins, philosophers, princes, kings, and emperors, and all the states and powers of the world; and yet in how short a time, maugre all opposition, did they carry the Gospel throughout the whole world, to the conversion of millions of souls, and the planting of churches everywhere; and which Gospel has continued and increased, notwithstanding the efforts of persecutors and false teachers, and all the power and artifice of men and devils; all which can be attributed to nothing else but the mighty power of God: add to this, that the Gospel is the power of God in the esteem of the saints, who know it to be so by inward experience; they have felt the power of it on their hearts; it has wrought effectually in them, and therefore they are the best judges, and are capable of giving the best account of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:18-31 Paul contrasts eloquence and human wisdom, which were highly valued by some of the Corinthians, with the foolish message of the cross—the expression of God’s wisdom. The followers of Apollos, in particular (see 1:12), were probably attracted by his rhetorical abilities and intellectual approach to ministry (see Acts 18:24-28). In contrast, Paul emphasizes that the real power lies in the simple message of the cross of Christ. 1:18 The message that God is saving the world through a condemned criminal is foolish to unbelievers, for their eyes are blinded to the truth (2 Cor 4:4). For believers, whose eyes have been opened by God, the message of the cross has the ring of truth to it, and they know its power to convict the human heart (see 1 Cor 1:23-24; Rom 1:16). Unbelievers, still in their sin, are headed for destruction, for ultimate condemnation. Believers, whose sins have been forgiven, are being saved: They are on their way to eternal life and glory.
The Message of the Cross
17For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with words of wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.18For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. 19For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Gods Love
By Corrie Ten Boom26K47:12Character Of GodJOL 2:28MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 5:51CO 1:181CO 2:91CO 14:8In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of being introduced in Alaska and compares it to the power of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes the importance of not standing in the way of the Holy Spirit and the need for a great blessing. The speaker then discusses the significance of God's love in extinguishing the flames of the world and encourages the audience to act in God's love, as miracles will happen in their lives. He concludes by highlighting the enduring qualities of faith, hope, and love, with love being the greatest. The speaker also briefly mentions his time as a prisoner in a concentration camp during World War II.
And They Crucified Him
By Art Katz17K00:00ISA 6:5MAT 16:24ACT 4:131CO 1:181CO 2:22CO 4:10GAL 2:20PHP 3:10HEB 12:2JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to embrace the suffering and humility exemplified by the early church in the book of Acts. It challenges believers to confront the avoidance of pain, self-indulgence, compromise of truth, and the lack of correction within the church. The speaker calls for a return to the centrality of the cross and the power of the resurrection, urging a transformation from a comfortable religiosity to a radical, sacrificial faith that stands out in the world.
Spiritual Treason
By A.W. Tozer16K35:39New ExperiencesROM 12:21CO 1:18COL 1:151TH 5:212TI 3:161PE 1:221JN 4:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses seven tests that can help believers evaluate the impact of their faith on various aspects of their lives. These tests include examining one's attitude towards God, Christ, the scriptures, self, other Christians, the world, and sin. The speaker encourages the audience to persevere in their faith and to continually seek a deeper love for God and a greater understanding of the scriptures. He also emphasizes the importance of discernment and testing the spirits to ensure that any doctrine, blessing, or experience aligns with God's truth as revealed in the Bible.
(Biographies) Charles Spurgeon
By John Piper7.4K1:13:42PSA 22:1PSA 46:7PSA 119:160ISA 55:11MAT 27:46ROM 10:171CO 1:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of perseverance in preaching, even in the face of adversity and criticism. He encourages preachers to have a long-term perspective, recognizing that their afflictions are temporary and that God will ultimately triumph. The speaker also highlights the need to have a strong sense of identity and not be paralyzed by external criticism or internal self-doubt. He shares personal experiences of depression and how it unexpectedly gave power to his ministry. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of staying steadfast in preaching the word of God, regardless of the challenges faced.
Christ Crucified
By C.H. Spurgeon5.5K55:02MAT 10:32LUK 19:5ACT 9:4ROM 1:161CO 1:181CO 2:2EPH 1:13In this sermon, the preacher describes two contrasting scenes. The first scene depicts a martyr being bound to a stake and burned alive. Despite the intense pain and suffering, the martyr remains steadfast in his faith, proclaiming his belief in the resurrection and the glory that awaits him in heaven. The preacher emphasizes the power of the gospel and the strength it gives to believers in times of persecution. In the second scene, a young girl lies on her deathbed, her body ravaged by illness. However, she radiates a peaceful smile, indicating her assurance of eternal life and the presence of an angel. The preacher calls upon the audience to reflect on their motives for attending the sermon and urges them to seek the wisdom and power found in the gospel.
They Have Done Away With the Cross
By David Wilkerson5.1K51:39MAT 6:33JHN 10:1JHN 14:6ROM 6:231CO 1:18GAL 6:141JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker addresses the rise of a new generation of ministers who are focused on building large complexes that offer various amenities and entertainment. While these ministers may be intelligent and capable, their emphasis on non-threatening, contemporary approaches and coping with life's problems does not align with the heart of God. The speaker emphasizes that God's patience with such approaches should not be mistaken for approval. The core message of the sermon is that salvation and entry into heaven can only be attained through Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the cross. The speaker highlights the sin-sick state of society and the invitation of Jesus to find rest and freedom from the chains of sin.
My Own Resurrection
By Francis Chan4.6K33:17PRO 30:8MAT 10:39MAT 13:44LUK 9:23LUK 23:34ACT 2:38ROM 5:81CO 1:18REV 1:17This sermon emphasizes the power of God, particularly focusing on the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the transformative impact it can have on individuals. It delves into the concept of surrendering to Jesus, highlighting the contrast between those who find the power of God compelling and those who struggle with the idea of surrender and judgment. The speaker shares personal stories and biblical references to illustrate the profound change that comes with accepting Jesus and experiencing His forgiveness and love.
(Biographies) Athanasius
By John Piper4.6K1:21:05ROM 12:21CO 1:181CO 9:222CO 4:42TI 1:7HEB 13:71PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of proclaiming the gospel in a way that challenges and transforms people's understanding. He cautions against simply presenting the basic truths of Christianity without addressing the fallen human mind's limitations. The speaker highlights several key principles, including God's sovereignty over all things, the accountability of all people before Him, and the inability of humans to come to Christ on their own. He also emphasizes the need to defend and explain doctrine for the sake of the gospel and to aim at creating biblical categories of thought that may not be readily understood by the current generation.
Audio Sermon: Last Days Deception
By David Wilkerson4.6K27:50EZK 33:7MAT 7:15ACT 13:2ROM 6:61CO 1:181CO 2:42CO 11:4GAL 1:8PHP 3:182TI 4:3This sermon emphasizes the dangers of the gospel of accommodation, which adapts and adjusts the message of the Gospel to suit the desires and weaknesses of sinful men. It warns against the propagation of a convenient gospel that avoids confronting sin and the true message of the cross, focusing on pleasing people rather than God. The speaker highlights the importance of preaching the full Gospel, including repentance, self-denial, and the offense of the cross, without compromising to attract a larger audience or for personal gain.
Forsaking God
By B.H. Clendennen4.4K48:57RebellionEXO 20:3PSA 119:11PRO 1:7HOS 4:6MAT 6:331CO 1:18JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having knowledge and understanding of God's Word. He quotes Hosea 4:6, which states that God's people are disturbed for lack of knowledge. The preacher warns against rejecting knowledge and forgetting the law of God, as it can lead to negative consequences, even affecting future generations. He shares a personal experience of being convicted by the Holy Spirit for watching inappropriate content and emphasizes the need for sensitivity to God's voice and the importance of allowing Him to probe deep into our spirits.
The Fire of God
By Art Katz4.0K1:22:28Fire Of GodJHN 14:6ACT 9:15ROM 11:291CO 1:18EPH 2:81TI 2:51PE 2:9In this sermon transcript, the speaker describes a series of university meetings where he preached the gospel. Despite facing opposition and being seen as a traitor by some, the speaker boldly proclaimed the message of Jesus Christ. The power of the Holy Spirit was evident as the speaker shared the gospel, leading to conversions and confrontations with those who opposed him. The speaker also mentions a specific incident where he was asked to debate a professor of comparative religion, and despite feeling inadequate, he experienced God's power and saw the impact of his message.
1 Peter 3:1
By A.W. Tozer3.8K15:54Wives and HusbandsMAT 22:37ROM 12:181CO 1:181TI 2:4HEB 10:252PE 3:9JUD 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preserving truth while showing love to both friends and enemies. He urges believers to build themselves up in their faith by reading the Bible, memorizing scripture, and seeking to know God personally. The preacher highlights the mercy of Jesus Christ, both on the cross and in receiving sinners, and encourages Christians to show compassion and fear in their efforts to bring others to Christ. He warns against false teachings and emphasizes the need to have a correct understanding of God and ourselves based on the study of the Bible.
Elijah (Time for Renewal Conference)
By Carter Conlon3.4K51:24ElijahPSA 23:1PRO 11:30MAT 6:33MAT 16:181CO 1:18JAS 1:51PE 2:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the introductory message of the gospel, which is to trust in God and believe that He will provide. He uses the story of Elijah and the widow as an example of someone who received this message and experienced miraculous provision. The preacher emphasizes the importance of treating the little things with care and recognizing the awesomeness of representing God. He also prays for the speaker who will deliver the next message and asks for an anointing and a powerful impact on the listeners.
The Street Meetings of God (Compilation)
By Compilations3.1K15:53CompilationISA 53:5MAT 3:3MAT 7:14LUK 9:23ROM 6:231CO 1:182CO 5:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the narrow path that leads to life and the importance of accepting Jesus as the savior. He highlights that salvation comes through the blood of Christ and encourages listeners to call upon the name of the Lord for a life-changing experience. The preacher also shares his personal journey of being deceived by the belief that good deeds alone can lead to heaven, emphasizing the need for faith in Christ. He urges people to reach out to those who are lost and dying without God, emphasizing the urgency of spreading the gospel. The sermon concludes with a plea for listeners to accept Jesus and for believers to awaken and rise up in their faith.
Worst Thing to Happen to a Preacher - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.8K10:21MAL 3:2MAT 16:24ACT 2:41CO 1:181CO 2:42CO 5:141TH 5:17JAS 5:16REV 3:16This sermon emphasizes the need for a revival of true, uncompromising Christianity, challenging the modern church to return to the radical commitment and power demonstrated by figures like Leonard Ravenhill and the Apostle Paul. It critiques the lukewarmness and lack of spiritual fervor in today's church, calling for a genuine encounter with the Holy Spirit to ignite a transformative fire that can impact the world. The speaker highlights the importance of personal devotion, prayer, and a deep care for the spiritual well-being of others, echoing the sacrificial dedication of early Christian leaders despite their hardships.
K-031 God Crucified
By Art Katz2.7K1:11:13Christ CrucifiedISA 53:5MAT 16:24LUK 9:23JHN 12:321CO 1:18GAL 2:20GAL 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the evidence of Jesus' crucifixion and the significance of the wounds he endured. The speaker mentions that experts and anatomists have examined a linen cloth that contains over 200 lash marks, which were made visible through a photographic negative created by coagulated blood. The wounds on Jesus' body, including lash marks, bleeding on the scalp, and other signs of torture, are seen as a testament to his love and sorrow. The speaker also reflects on personal experiences and encounters with individuals who reject or misunderstand the message of the cross. The sermon emphasizes the importance of embracing the cross of Jesus Christ and warns against compromising one's faith in the face of increasing temptation.
Hell's Best Kept Secret (Mandarin)
By Ray Comfort2.4K55:43EvangelismMAT 5:3MRK 2:17LUK 10:25ROM 3:191CO 1:18JAS 2:10In this sermon, the speaker, Ray Comfort, shares his personal experience with evangelism in the 1970s. He noticed that a large percentage of those who made a decision to follow Christ eventually fell away from their faith. He attributes this to the modern evangelism approach that focuses on life enhancement rather than the true message of the gospel. Comfort uses the analogy of a parachute to illustrate the difference between a genuine response to the gospel and a superficial one. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the true motive for accepting Christ and the resulting transformation in one's life.
Regeneration vs Decisionism - Deeper Conference
By Paul Washer2.3K1:07:45EZK 37:1MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 1:161CO 1:182CO 4:7EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker addresses the prevailing belief in our society that all religious and moral views are equally valid, despite their contradictions. He argues that this pluralistic mindset only numbs people to the truth and prevents them from making a logical conclusion. The gospel, on the other hand, challenges this illogical stance and calls people to a genuine saving faith. The speaker then gives an example of a hypothetical situation in the first-century Roman Empire, where Christians were being persecuted, to emphasize the urgency and importance of sharing the gospel. He concludes by highlighting the necessity of God's power in preaching and evangelism, emphasizing that without His intervention, all our efforts are in vain. The sermon references the book of Romans and Ezekiel 37 to support its points.
Fren-02 Born From Above
By Art Katz2.3K1:17:00Born AgainMAT 6:33JHN 3:3ROM 1:16ROM 10:17ROM 11:11ROM 11:251CO 1:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the need to overcome resistance and fear in order to experience a transformation. They believe that something significant has happened in heaven, and it will be evident to others as well. The speaker mentions the importance of favoring Zion and the fulfillment of the Gentiles, leading to the deliverance of Israel from their transgressions. They also highlight the upcoming astonishing event at the end of the age, which is seen as God's final act of grace towards the nations. The sermon encourages listeners to be prepared and willing to labor and exert themselves for God's purposes.
The Battle Is for the Mind
By Josef Tson2.2K44:14MAT 6:33MAT 10:16MAT 16:24JHN 12:32JHN 20:21ROM 8:311CO 1:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the essence of communism and other satanic movements, which he identifies as being rooted in lies, hate, and violence. He shares a personal experience of being a Christian student in a communist regime and the need to come together to find arguments for Christ in order to combat indoctrination. The speaker also recounts a powerful story of being arrested and interrogated, where he boldly confronts his interrogator with the power of his faith and willingness to die for his beliefs. He concludes by asserting that even in death, his message will continue to spread and inspire others to follow God.
The Cross (Compilation)
By Compilations2.2K04:29CompilationMAT 16:24ROM 12:21CO 1:18GAL 6:14PHP 3:10COL 2:81JN 2:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of truly knowing God as He is, rather than creating a distorted image of Him based on our own desires and fantasies. The speaker suggests that many Christians have avoided the true message of the cross, which is essential for separating ourselves from the seductive and sinful world. The failure to embrace the cross has led to a woeful condition in the lives of believers and in the church as a whole. The speaker calls for a radical apprehension of God and a genuine understanding of the suffering and death of Jesus on the cross as the true reflection of God's image.
The Cross-Centered Church (Birmingham Conference)
By Gary Wilkerson2.1K29:44Cross of ChristMAT 6:33ACT 4:12ROM 1:161CO 1:181CO 2:21CO 15:3GAL 6:14In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his love for the church despite its chaos and conflicts. He ponders on how to bring about change and make the church work as God intends. The speaker emphasizes the importance of being steadfast in spirit and fixing one's heart on God. He also shares his experience at a conference where he learned about church design and reaching lost people, but felt overwhelmed by the task. The speaker ends by questioning why God gave him the desire for change without providing the necessary skills and vision to fulfill it.
The Seeker Friendly Movement: A Prophetic Warning
By David Wilkerson2.0K27:50EZK 33:7MAT 7:15ACT 13:21CO 1:181CO 1:232CO 11:4GAL 1:8PHP 3:18TIT 2:11This sermon emphasizes the danger of the gospel of accommodation, which adapts and adjusts the message of the Gospel to suit the desires and weaknesses of sinful men. It warns against the propagation of a convenient, seeker-friendly gospel that avoids confronting sin and the true message of the cross. The speaker highlights the importance of preaching the full Gospel, including repentance, self-denial, and the offense of the cross, rather than accommodating worldly pleasures and avoiding the call to true discipleship.
Depravity of Man
By Conrad Mbewe1.9K07:38PSA 51:10EZK 36:26JHN 6:44ACT 17:30ROM 10:171CO 1:182CO 5:17EPH 2:82PE 3:9This sermon emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity and the need for repentance in the face of God's demands. It highlights the importance of preaching repentance to those in rebellion, acknowledging that only through the grace of God can hearts be changed and souls be saved. The message conveys hope in God's ability to transform lives through the gospel, bringing sinners to genuine repentance and worship of Him.
The Glorious Ministration of the Spirit
By Carter Conlon1.8K47:17Holy SpiritMAT 6:331CO 1:181CO 2:41CO 2:161CO 3:62CO 3:32CO 3:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on Christ rather than being distracted by the charisma and self-promotion of human leaders. He warns against being drawn to those who seek to gain personal glory and take advantage of others. The preacher highlights the need to see beyond the veil and have a genuine encounter with God. He emphasizes that when we turn to the Lord, the veil is lifted, and we are able to see Christ clearly. The sermon concludes with the reminder that it is God who brings about transformation and growth, and it is through His presence that we experience true liberty and generosity.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For the preaching of the cross - Ὁ λογος γαρ ὁ του σταυρου, The doctrine of the cross; or the doctrine that is of or concerning the cross; that is, the doctrine that proclaims salvation to a lost world through the crucifixion of Christ. Is to them that perish foolishness - There are, properly speaking, but two classes of men known where the Gospel is preached: απολλυμενοι, the unbelievers and gainsayers, who are perishing; and σοζομενοι, the obedient believers, who are in a state of salvation. To those who will continue in the first state, the preaching of salvation through the merit of a crucified Savior is folly. To those who believe this doctrine of Christ crucified is the power of God to their salvation; it is divinely efficacious to deliver them from all the power, guilt, and pollution of sin.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
preaching, &c.--literally, "the word," or speech as to the cross; in contrast to the "wisdom of words" (so called), Co1 1:17. them that perish--rather, "them that are perishing," namely, by preferring human "wisdom of words" to the doctrine of the "cross of Christ." It is not the final state that is referred to; but, "them that are in the way of perishing." So also in Co2 2:15-16. us which are saved--In the Greek the collocation is more modest, "to them that are being saved (that are in the way of salvation) as," that is, to which class we belong. power of God--which includes in it that it is the wisdom of God" (Co1 1:24). God's powerful instrument of salvation; the highest exhibition of God's power (Rom 1:16). What seems to the world "weakness" in God's plan of salvation (Co1 1:25), and in its mode of delivery by His apostle (Co1 2:3) is really His mighty "power." What seems "foolishness" because wanting man's "wisdom of words" (Co1 1:17), is really the highest "wisdom of God" (Co1 1:24).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For the preaching of the cross,.... Not of the Christian's cross, which he is to take up and bear for the sake of Christ; though this is a doctrine taught by Christ, and his apostles, and found to be true by the saints in all ages; and is what is had in great aversion and contempt, being very disagreeable to the natural man: but of the cross of Christ, the doctrine of salvation by a crucified Christ; or the doctrine of peace and reconciliation by the blood of his cross, and of righteousness, pardon, atonement, and satisfaction by the offering up of himself upon it as a sacrifice for sin, is here intended; and which is foolishness in the esteem of many; and that because man's wisdom has no hand either in forming the scheme of it, or in the discovery of it to the sons of men; and besides, being revealed, it is very disagreeable to the carnal reason of man. This way of preaching is very impolite and unfashionable, and therefore despised; it is a doctrine which is not received by the wise and learned, but has been in all ages loaded with reproach, stigmatized either as a novel or licentious doctrine, and attended with persecution; though the only doctrine God owns for conversion, which administers comfort to distressed souls, and is food for the faith of believers; yea, it is a display of the highest wisdom; is what angels approve of, and desire to look into; is wiser than the wisdom of men; it has made foolish the wisdom of this world, and is what is only able to make a man wise unto salvation; and yet this doctrine is accounted foolish, yea foolishness itself; but to whom is it so? to them that perish. All mankind are in a lost and perishing condition, by reason of sin, and want of righteousness. There are some who shall not perish; the Father has chose them unto salvation, the Son has redeemed them, and the Spirit sanctifies them; but there are others who do perish in their sins; wicked and ungodly men, Carried away with their own lusts and blinded by Satan, the god of this world: these are they that are lost, to whom the Gospel is hid, and who judge it foolishness; but their judgment of it is not to be regarded, being no more capable to judge of the glory and wisdom of the Gospel, than a blind man is of colours: but unto us which are saved; who are chosen in Christ unto salvation; whose persons and grace are secured in Christ, and in the everlasting covenant; for whom Christ has wrought out salvation; and to whom it is applied by the Spirit of God; and who are kept unto the full enjoyment of it by divine grace: to thest is the power of God; organically or instrumentally; it being the means of quickening them when dead in sin, of enlightening their dark minds, of unstopping their deaf ears, of softening their hard hearts, and of enemies making them friends to God, Christ, and his people: and it is likewise so declaratively, there being a wonderful display of the power of God in the ministration of it; as may be seen when observed who were the first preachers of it, men of no figure in life, of no education, illiterate mechanics, very mean and abject; into these earthen vessels were put the treasure of the Gospel, that the excellency of the power might appear to be of God, and not man; as also the doctrine they preached, a crucified Christ, disagreeable to the wisdom of men; the manner in which they spread it, not by force of arms, by carnal weapons, but spiritual ones; moreover, the opposition they met with from rabbins, philosophers, princes, kings, and emperors, and all the states and powers of the world; and yet in how short a time, maugre all opposition, did they carry the Gospel throughout the whole world, to the conversion of millions of souls, and the planting of churches everywhere; and which Gospel has continued and increased, notwithstanding the efforts of persecutors and false teachers, and all the power and artifice of men and devils; all which can be attributed to nothing else but the mighty power of God: add to this, that the Gospel is the power of God in the esteem of the saints, who know it to be so by inward experience; they have felt the power of it on their hearts; it has wrought effectually in them, and therefore they are the best judges, and are capable of giving the best account of it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:18-31 Paul contrasts eloquence and human wisdom, which were highly valued by some of the Corinthians, with the foolish message of the cross—the expression of God’s wisdom. The followers of Apollos, in particular (see 1:12), were probably attracted by his rhetorical abilities and intellectual approach to ministry (see Acts 18:24-28). In contrast, Paul emphasizes that the real power lies in the simple message of the cross of Christ. 1:18 The message that God is saving the world through a condemned criminal is foolish to unbelievers, for their eyes are blinded to the truth (2 Cor 4:4). For believers, whose eyes have been opened by God, the message of the cross has the ring of truth to it, and they know its power to convict the human heart (see 1 Cor 1:23-24; Rom 1:16). Unbelievers, still in their sin, are headed for destruction, for ultimate condemnation. Believers, whose sins have been forgiven, are being saved: They are on their way to eternal life and glory.