1 Corinthians 1:23
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But we - Apostles, differing widely from these Gentile philosophers: - Preach Christ crucified - Call on men, both Jews and Gentiles, to believe in Christ, as having purchased their salvation by shedding his blood for them. Unto the Jews a stumbling block - Because Jesus came meek, lowly, and impoverished; not seeking worldly glory, nor affecting worldly pomp; whereas they expected the Messiah to come as a mighty prince and conqueror; because Christ did not come so, they were offended at him. Out of their own mouths, we may condemn the gainsaying Jews. In Sohar Chadash, fol. 26, the following saying is attributed to Moses, relative to the brazen serpent: "Moses said, This serpent is a stumbling block to the world. The holy blessed God answered: Not at all, it shall be for punishment to sinners, and life to upright men." This is a proper illustration of the apostle's words. Unto the Greeks foolishness - Because they could not believe that proclaiming supreme happiness through a man that was crucified at Judea as a malefactor could ever comport with reason and common sense; for both the matter and manner of the preaching were opposite to every notion they had formed of what was dignified and philosophic. In Justin Martyr's dialogue with Trypho the Jew we have these remarkable words, which serve to throw light on the above. "Your Jesus," says Trypho, "having fallen under the extreme curse of God, we cannot sufficiently admire how you can expect any good from God, who place your hopes επ' ανθρωπον σταυρωθεντα, upon a man that was Crucified." The same writer adds: "They count us mad, that after the eternal God, the Father of all things, we give the second place, ανθρωπῳ σταυρωθεντι, to a man that was crucified." "Where is your understanding," said the Gentiles, "who worship for a god him who was crucified?" Thus Christ crucified was to the Jews a stumbling block, and to the Greeks foolishness. See Whitby on this verse.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we--Paul and Apollos. Christ crucified--The Greek expresses not the mere fact of His crucifixion, but the permanent character acquired by the transaction, whereby He is now a Saviour (Gal 3:1) crucified was the stone on which the Jews stumbled (Mat 21:44). The opposition of Jew and Gentile alike shows that a religion so seemingly contemptible in its origin could not have succeeded if it had not been divine. unto the Greeks--the oldest manuscripts read "unto the Gentiles."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But we preach Christ crucified,.... Regardless of the sentiments and opinions of Jews and Gentiles, of what the one required and the other sought after; and in opposition to all their senseless and groundless cavils, the apostle and his fellow ministers continued preaching the doctrine of salvation by a crucified Christ, and him only; though it was unto the Jews a stumblingblock; as was prophesied it should be, and as it came to pass; for they not only stumbled at the meanness of his birth, parentage, and education, at his ministry, miracles, company and audience; but especially at his sufferings and death: it was a stumbling to them that he should die at all, for they understood out of their law, that Christ should abide for ever; and it was more so that he should die the death of the cross, by which, according to their law, he appeared to be accursed; and most of all this was stumbling to them, because they expected a temporal kingdom to be set up by him: and unto the Greeks foolishness; as that the Son of God should be crucified; that riches should come through his poverty, and men be brought to a kingdom and glory through one so mean and abject; that there should be life for men in his death, and salvation through his crucifixion, or the shameful death of the cross; that blessings should come through his being made a curse; and that his death should be an expiatory sacrifice for the sins of men; and that justification should be by one that was condemned; and peace and pardon should be by his blood; and that he should be raised again from the dead. These things were the subject of their ridicule and banter, and, in their opinion, deserved rather to be laughed at than credited. The Alexandrian copy, and others, and the Vulgate and all the Oriental versions, read, "unto the Gentiles".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:23 Regardless of what unbelieving Jews and Gentiles desired, Paul refused to give them anything but the simple message of the cross. To many Jews, the idea of a crucified Messiah was a contradiction in terms because crucifixion expressed not the power and blessing of God but his curse (see Gal 3:13; cp. Deut 21:23).
1 Corinthians 1:23
The Message of the Cross
22Jews demand signs and Greeks search for wisdom, 23but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles,24but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
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.
Finding the Grace to Die - Part 1
By Jackie Pullinger1.7K1:15:30GraceEZK 36:26MAT 28:191CO 1:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own journey of understanding and preaching the gospel. He admits that initially, he only had theoretical knowledge and lacked the ability to connect with people on a deeper level. However, he emphasizes the importance of going out and encountering those who are in need, as it is through these encounters that one realizes their own poverty and dependence on God. The speaker shares a personal experience of meeting a man in Hong Kong who would bang his head on the pavement to draw blood while begging for money. Although the speaker couldn't communicate with him effectively, he sensed a deep groaning in the man's actions, which reminded him of the suffering and sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. The sermon highlights the need to minister to the poor and marginalized, as it allows us to better understand God and His love for humanity.
The Word of God
By Paul Ravenhill1.3K47:00PSA 8:2MAT 21:161CO 1:171CO 1:23REV 19:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of perseverance and getting back up after falling. He explains that even if a person falls multiple times, it does not mean they are not just, as long as they keep getting up. The preacher encourages listeners to keep their focus on Jesus and trust that God will lead them to their destination. He also highlights the power and wisdom of Christ, stating that it is through the anointing of Christ that the word of God can have a profound impact on people's lives.
Christophany
By Eric Ludy1.0K1:17:02JHN 12:321CO 1:23COL 1:15COL 3:1HEB 12:2This sermon focuses on the importance of seeing Jesus clearly amidst the confusion and distractions in Christianity. It emphasizes the need for the Spirit of God to reveal Jesus to us, the significance of Christ's work on the cross, and the essence of making everything about Jesus. The message challenges believers to refocus on Jesus, cleanse distractions, and prioritize the centrality of Christ in their lives.
Remembering the Slain Lamb
By Zac Poonen45117:41GEN 3:15ISA 53:7LUK 22:191CO 1:23PHP 2:8COL 1:20HEB 4:151PE 1:18REV 5:5REV 5:9This sermon delves into the profound imagery of Revelation 5, highlighting the worship in heaven centered solely on Jesus. It emphasizes the need for humility and recognizing our rebellion against God's authority, tracing back to the first sin. The significance of Jesus as the Lion of Judah who overcame to pay the price for redemption is explored, showcasing the lion-lamb combination in his character. The call to sing a 'fresh' song about the cross, experiencing the depth of Jesus' sacrifice as if hearing it for the first time, is a central theme, urging believers to keep the message of the cross ever fresh in their hearts.
The Foundation of Recovered Testimony
By T. Austin-Sparks0JHN 17:211CO 1:231CO 5:7GAL 6:14PHP 3:8COL 1:18HEB 12:2REV 1:5T. Austin-Sparks preaches on the importance of returning to the foundational truth of the Cross of Christ for revival and recovery of the lost testimony. He emphasizes that throughout history, whenever God moved for recovery, it was always by calling back to the Cross as the starting point. The Passover in the Old Testament served as a unifying ground and corrective dynamic, restoring unity and removing idolatry. The ultimate focus is on Christ in His fullness and significance, where God must be all, and any division or idolatry must be replaced by a captivating vision of Christ.
The Free Obedience of Christ
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0God's LoveThe Death of ChristPSA 42:11LUK 2:52JHN 3:16JHN 10:17ROM 5:71CO 1:181CO 1:23HEB 9:14REV 5:6REV 5:12Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the profound significance of Christ's death, portraying it as the most remarkable event in the universe, cherished by God and the redeemed alike. He explains that Christ's voluntary sacrifice was a command from the Father, highlighting the love of both the Father and the Son in the plan of salvation. M'Cheyne warns that those who disregard the importance of Christ's death are in a perilous state, as even demons recognize its significance. He encourages believers to understand the depth of God's love, which desires all to be saved through Christ's sacrifice, and to respond to this love by coming to faith in Jesus. Ultimately, M'Cheyne calls for a recognition of the beauty and necessity of Christ's obedience in laying down His life for sinners.
Preaching Christ
By Charles McIlvaine0JHN 14:6ROM 1:16ROM 8:11CO 1:23EPH 2:8Charles McIlvaine preaches about the essential duty of ministers to focus on preaching Christ crucified, emphasizing the Apostles' unwavering dedication to this central message. He highlights the significance of preaching Christ as the core of the Gospel, connecting it to the Apostles' teachings and the power of the Holy Spirit in convicting, converting, and sanctifying individuals. McIlvaine stresses the Apostles' emphasis on Christ crucified, portraying it as the pivotal event that all their ministry pointed to and revolved around. He underscores the importance of preaching Christ not only as a historical figure but as the crucified Savior, the central light and power of the Christian faith.
(Reformers and Their Stepchildren) Sacramentschwarmer! - Part 2
By Leonard Verduin0EXO 19:12ROM 10:14ROM 10:171CO 1:181CO 1:23EPH 2:8COL 2:81TI 4:12TI 4:3HEB 4:12Leonard Verduin delves into the historical context of Sacramentarians and Restitutionists, highlighting the anti-Sacramentalism present in Europe before the Reformation. He explores the resistance against Sacramentalism and the emphasis on salvation through believing response to the preached Word rather than sacramental manipulation. Verduin discusses the struggles faced by those who opposed the prevailing Church's sacerdotalism and the importance of vernacularism in the Anabaptist movement. He sheds light on the tension between Sacramentarians and the Reformers, as well as the persistence of anti-Sacramentalism among the Stepchildren, who repudiated salvation by sacramental manipulation.
A Ministry of the Significance of Christ
By T. Austin-Sparks0ISA 8:14MRK 9:24LUK 2:33JHN 7:8ROM 6:51CO 1:23GAL 6:14T. Austin-Sparks preaches about the profound meaning of Christ's presence in our lives, emphasizing that encountering Christ will lead to a deeper understanding of His significance and a realization of the vastness of union with Him. He highlights the three aspects of the fellowship of Christ's sufferings: co-operation in delivering souls, discipline for Christlikeness, and developing capacity to understand Divine truths. The sermon delves into how Christ determines destinies, being a stumbling block for some and a source of lifting for others, based on their response to Him. It also explores the challenges posed by Christ's presence, His manner of life, and His Cross, which often provoke reactions and reveal the true thoughts of many hearts.
1 Peter 2:8
By John Gill0Disobedience to the GospelStumbling at ChristISA 8:14MAT 21:42JHN 1:11JHN 3:19ROM 9:331CO 1:23GAL 5:4EPH 2:8HEB 4:21PE 2:7John Gill expounds on 1 Peter 2:8, illustrating how Christ serves as a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense to those who disbelieve, particularly the Jews who could not accept His humble origins and the nature of His ministry. He discusses their misconceptions about the Messiah's glory and power, which led them to reject Jesus due to their expectations of a worldly king. Gill emphasizes that their disobedience to the Gospel and refusal to accept divine revelation are the root causes of their stumbling. He also notes that while some are appointed to believe, others are left in their disobedience, leading to their spiritual downfall. Ultimately, the sermon highlights the contrast between those who embrace Christ and those who reject Him due to their own understanding and expectations.
Redemption in Christ
By J.W. McGarvey0ROM 3:25ROM 8:181CO 1:23EPH 1:71JN 3:2J.W. McGarvey preaches about the profound concept of Redemption from Sin in Christ Jesus, emphasizing the inability to undo past sins and the serious consequences of sin that cannot be escaped. He delves into various shallow explanations for redemption, highlighting the insufficiency of mere education or unconditional forgiveness without addressing the penalty of sin. McGarvey explores the grand problem of redemption, ultimately pointing to the Bible's explanation that through Christ's blood, there is redemption and forgiveness of sins, showcasing God's wisdom and mercy in the scheme of redemption.
Not Ashamed of the Gospel
By Aaron Hills0ROM 1:16ROM 6:23ROM 10:111CO 1:181CO 1:23GAL 1:8EPH 1:71TH 5:232TI 1:122TI 2:15Aaron Hills preaches about the unashamed power of the Gospel of Christ, emphasizing the moral sublimity of Paul's assertion amidst the corrupt and decadent Roman world. He highlights the essential elements of the Gospel as revealed by Paul, including the Divine, Atoning, and Crucified Christ, salvation conditioned on faith, and the doctrine of Sanctification. Hills addresses the reasons why some may be ashamed of the Gospel, such as rejecting fundamental doctrines, ignoring Gospel conditions, and seeking to dilute its power with human additions. He stresses the importance of not being ashamed of the Gospel, as it brings assurance of God, reveals the worth and immortality of the human soul, and has the power to reform societies and elevate individuals.
A Great Warfare
By Tom Macartney0DAN 10:1ROM 5:31CO 1:23EPH 6:11PHP 4:13COL 1:131PE 3:71JN 4:41JN 5:4Tom Macartney preaches about the eternal warfare between good and evil, emphasizing the ongoing conflict that every true child of God is involved in. The sermon highlights the importance of understanding the spiritual battle, being awake to the enemy's strategies, and knowing God and His heavenly resources to stand firm in the evil day. The urgency of the hour is emphasized, pointing to the increasing intensity of the battle as the day of the Lord's triumph draws nearer.
The Presence of the Lord With His People, and Its Effect
By J.B. Stoney0JDG 16:21PSA 25:14EZK 14:4HOS 4:17HAB 1:13MAT 28:20JHN 4:391CO 1:231CO 11:19J.B. Stoney preaches about the presence of the Lord with His people, emphasizing that His presence is often revealed through the exposure of hidden sins and the purification of His church. When God is near, He exposes unconfessed iniquity and calls for repentance, both in individuals and in the assembly. The Lord's presence brings about a separation of the faithful from the lukewarm and worldly, leading to a clearer acknowledgment of His truth and the removal of hindrances to genuine revival.
The Unsearchable Riches of Christ
By Thomas Reade0PSA 36:7PSA 103:11ISA 55:8ROM 11:331CO 1:23EPH 1:7EPH 2:4EPH 3:8COL 2:2Thomas Reade preaches about the unsearchable riches of Christ, using the transformation of Saul of Tarsus as an example of the amazing work of conversion. He emphasizes the importance of making Christ Crucified the central theme of preaching, as it is the foundation of the Church and the source of all divine influences. Reade highlights the infinite Holiness of God and the exceeding sinfulness of sin, urging believers to seek the unsearchable riches of Christ for wisdom, strength, and eternal salvation.
The Supremacy of Preaching Christ Himself
By Bryan Anthony0JHN 14:6ACT 8:5ROM 3:251CO 1:231CO 2:22CO 4:5GAL 6:14COL 1:271PE 2:24Bryan Anthony preaches on the essentiality of focusing solely on Jesus Christ and His crucifixion in all aspects of preaching and ministry. He emphasizes that all other teachings, doctrines, or religions fall short of the glory of God and the salvational reality found only in Christ. Anthony highlights the missionary message of Christ as the propitiation for our sins and the need for a radical jealousy for Christ to be glorified in true proclamation.
Holy Orders
By Ian Paisley0JER 6:15ROM 10:14ROM 10:171CO 1:211CO 1:23GAL 1:81TI 3:12TI 4:2TIT 1:51JN 4:6Ian Paisley preaches against the concept of Holy Orders as an institution unknown to the Scriptures, denouncing Popery's elevation of priesthood through claimed divine institution and sacramental significance. He refutes Apostolic Succession, highlighting the distinction between the Apostles and other ministers, emphasizing the lack of scriptural support for this assumption. Paisley challenges the doctrines of Apostolic Succession and Papal Unity, exposing the fallacies and historical corruptions within these systems. He underscores the importance of character and doctrine in appointing bishops, contrasting the Apostolic emphasis on preaching the Gospel with the modern prioritization of sacraments over preaching and Gospel truths.
The Conditions of the Gospel Reasonable
By G.W. Longan0MRK 16:16ACT 2:38ROM 1:161CO 1:23COL 2:12G.W. Longan preaches about the central importance of Jesus Christ and the Cross in the Divine history, emphasizing that every truth in the Bible is subordinate to the grand central idea of the Cross. He explains that the Gospel of Christ, encompassing 'Christ,' 'the Cross of Christ,' and 'Christ crucified,' is the power and wisdom of God, demonstrating God's infinite wisdom in the redemption of sinners. Longan delves into the necessity of repentance and faith in the Gospel, highlighting that God's salvation plan is built upon unchanging principles and the eternal laws of God's moral government.
The Offense of the Cross
By George H. Morrison0JHN 14:61CO 1:23GAL 6:14PHP 3:8COL 3:11George H. Morrison emphasizes Paul's deep yearning for the salvation of his fellow Jews, despite the offense of the cross to them, highlighting the importance of not compromising essential truths for the sake of acceptance. He challenges Christian teachers to be willing to go to great lengths to reach others while standing firm on the foundational truths of the gospel, even if it means facing rejection or failure. Morrison explains why the cross was offensive to the Jews, as it shattered their hopes, pride in religious rituals, and national distinctions, emphasizing that the offense of Calvary still challenges modern society's values and ideals.
The Glory of the Cross
By Ignatius of Antioch0MAT 1:23MRK 1:9JHN 1:11CO 1:23Ignatius of Antioch preaches about the stumbling-block of the cross to unbelievers and the salvation it brings to believers. He emphasizes the Son of God's eternal existence, His miraculous conception by the Holy Ghost in the womb of Mary, fulfilling the prophecy of a virgin birth. Ignatius highlights Jesus' baptism by John as a confirmation of His divine mission.
God Has Something to Say
By T. Austin-Sparks0Living by the SpiritSpiritual Value of ChristISA 61:1MAT 2:2MRK 1:24LUK 4:18ACT 16:7ROM 8:141CO 1:23GAL 5:16EPH 5:181JN 2:8T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that God has a profound message for our hearts, demonstrated through the life of Jesus, who lived a spiritually rich life in a mundane world. He highlights that Christ's earthly existence was safeguarded by God to ensure that His value remained spiritual, not temporal, and that true appreciation of Christ comes from a heart transformed by the Spirit. Sparks urges believers to recognize that they are called to live ordinary lives on a higher spiritual level, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and to seek God's direction in their actions rather than relying on their own plans. He stresses the importance of being constituted and anointed by the Spirit to fulfill God's purpose effectively, warning against the church's tendency to operate without divine guidance. Ultimately, the sermon calls for repentance and submission to the Holy Spirit's leading to regain the church's impact in the world.
Why History Matters pt.2
By Ted Byfield0PSA 78:4PRO 22:6MAT 2:1LUK 2:11CO 1:23Ted Byfield preaches about the impact of the 'Sixties Revolution' on society, highlighting the cultural shifts, moral decline, and societal changes brought about by movements such as the Sexual Revolution, Feminist Revolution, and emphasis on 'love' and 'peace'. He discusses the consequences of John Dewey's educational philosophy, leading to an educational catastrophe and moral decay, emphasizing the need for a rediscovery of history, particularly Christian history, to restore values and understanding in society.
The Cross and the Disruptive Power of Sin
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Power of the CrossUnity in the ChurchJHN 3:14JHN 8:28JHN 12:32ACT 13:2ROM 8:21CO 1:23EPH 4:3PHP 2:9COL 1:20REV 5:9T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the Cross as a unifying force against the disruptive power of sin, illustrating how sin acts as a spiritual disease that disintegrates both individuals and communities. He highlights that the Cross not only bears our sins but also judges and destroys the effects of sin, calling for a return to Divine order through the Holy Spirit's guidance. The sermon challenges believers to reflect on the Cross's role in their personal lives and local assemblies, urging them to seek the Holy Spirit's control to maintain unity and effectiveness in the Church. Ultimately, the message points to the Cross as the central theme of reconciliation and the foundation for a new creation where Christ is the focal point. Sparks calls for a deep examination of motives and situations in light of the Cross's transformative power.
The Fool and the Wise
By Oswald Chambers0MAT 5:111CO 1:231PE 4:16Oswald Chambers preaches about the shame of the Gospel, highlighting how the wisdom of God may seem foolish to the world, but ultimately surpasses human understanding. He emphasizes that standing true to faith in God may lead to appearing foolish among those who prioritize worldly wisdom and cunning. Chambers challenges believers to be willing to endure suffering and appear foolish for the sake of Christ, even in the face of opposition and persecution.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But we - Apostles, differing widely from these Gentile philosophers: - Preach Christ crucified - Call on men, both Jews and Gentiles, to believe in Christ, as having purchased their salvation by shedding his blood for them. Unto the Jews a stumbling block - Because Jesus came meek, lowly, and impoverished; not seeking worldly glory, nor affecting worldly pomp; whereas they expected the Messiah to come as a mighty prince and conqueror; because Christ did not come so, they were offended at him. Out of their own mouths, we may condemn the gainsaying Jews. In Sohar Chadash, fol. 26, the following saying is attributed to Moses, relative to the brazen serpent: "Moses said, This serpent is a stumbling block to the world. The holy blessed God answered: Not at all, it shall be for punishment to sinners, and life to upright men." This is a proper illustration of the apostle's words. Unto the Greeks foolishness - Because they could not believe that proclaiming supreme happiness through a man that was crucified at Judea as a malefactor could ever comport with reason and common sense; for both the matter and manner of the preaching were opposite to every notion they had formed of what was dignified and philosophic. In Justin Martyr's dialogue with Trypho the Jew we have these remarkable words, which serve to throw light on the above. "Your Jesus," says Trypho, "having fallen under the extreme curse of God, we cannot sufficiently admire how you can expect any good from God, who place your hopes επ' ανθρωπον σταυρωθεντα, upon a man that was Crucified." The same writer adds: "They count us mad, that after the eternal God, the Father of all things, we give the second place, ανθρωπῳ σταυρωθεντι, to a man that was crucified." "Where is your understanding," said the Gentiles, "who worship for a god him who was crucified?" Thus Christ crucified was to the Jews a stumbling block, and to the Greeks foolishness. See Whitby on this verse.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we--Paul and Apollos. Christ crucified--The Greek expresses not the mere fact of His crucifixion, but the permanent character acquired by the transaction, whereby He is now a Saviour (Gal 3:1) crucified was the stone on which the Jews stumbled (Mat 21:44). The opposition of Jew and Gentile alike shows that a religion so seemingly contemptible in its origin could not have succeeded if it had not been divine. unto the Greeks--the oldest manuscripts read "unto the Gentiles."
John Gill Bible Commentary
But we preach Christ crucified,.... Regardless of the sentiments and opinions of Jews and Gentiles, of what the one required and the other sought after; and in opposition to all their senseless and groundless cavils, the apostle and his fellow ministers continued preaching the doctrine of salvation by a crucified Christ, and him only; though it was unto the Jews a stumblingblock; as was prophesied it should be, and as it came to pass; for they not only stumbled at the meanness of his birth, parentage, and education, at his ministry, miracles, company and audience; but especially at his sufferings and death: it was a stumbling to them that he should die at all, for they understood out of their law, that Christ should abide for ever; and it was more so that he should die the death of the cross, by which, according to their law, he appeared to be accursed; and most of all this was stumbling to them, because they expected a temporal kingdom to be set up by him: and unto the Greeks foolishness; as that the Son of God should be crucified; that riches should come through his poverty, and men be brought to a kingdom and glory through one so mean and abject; that there should be life for men in his death, and salvation through his crucifixion, or the shameful death of the cross; that blessings should come through his being made a curse; and that his death should be an expiatory sacrifice for the sins of men; and that justification should be by one that was condemned; and peace and pardon should be by his blood; and that he should be raised again from the dead. These things were the subject of their ridicule and banter, and, in their opinion, deserved rather to be laughed at than credited. The Alexandrian copy, and others, and the Vulgate and all the Oriental versions, read, "unto the Gentiles".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:23 Regardless of what unbelieving Jews and Gentiles desired, Paul refused to give them anything but the simple message of the cross. To many Jews, the idea of a crucified Messiah was a contradiction in terms because crucifixion expressed not the power and blessing of God but his curse (see Gal 3:13; cp. Deut 21:23).