1 Corinthians 1:24
Verse
Context
Sermons
Neil Fraser
Clement of Alexandria
Evan H. Hopkins
George Fox
Thomas WatsonGeorge Fox
AphraatesSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But unto them which are called - Τοις κλητοις. Those, both of Jews and Greeks, who were by the preaching of the Gospel called or invited to the marriage feast, and have accordingly believed in Christ Jesus; they prove this doctrine to be divinely powerful, to enlighten and convert the soul, and to be a proof of God's infinite wisdom, which has found out such an effectual way to glorify both his justice and mercy, and save, to the uttermost, all that come to him through Christ Jesus. The called, or invited, κλητοι, is a title of genuine Christians, and is frequently used in the New Testament. Ἁγιοι, saints, is used in the same sense.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
called--(compare Co1 1:26). The same class as the "us which are (being) saved" (Co1 1:18); the elect, who have obeyed the call; called effectually (Rom 8:28, Rom 8:30). Christ--"Crucified" is not here added, because when the offense of the cross is overcome, "Christ" is received in all His relations, not only in His cross, but in His life and His future kingdom. power--so meeting all the reasonable requirements of the Jews who sought "a sign." The cross (the death of a slave), which to the Jews (looking for a temporal Messiah) was a "stumbling-block," is really "the power of God" to the salvation of all who believe. wisdom of God--so really exhibiting, and in the highest degree (if they would but see it), that which the Greeks sought after--wisdom (Col 2:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But unto them which are called,.... Effectually, by the grace of God, not merely externally, but internally; these have other sentiments of Christ, and the doctrine of salvation by him; for being called out of darkness, and savingly illuminated by the Spirit of God, they see wisdom, beauty, glory, excellency, and suitableness in Christ, and in his Gospel; and having felt the power of it upon their souls, with them, both Jews and Greeks, of whatsoever nation they be, and whatsoever their prejudices have been, Christ, to them is, the power of God, and the wisdom of God: he is "the power of God"; this is opposed to the Jews who stumbled at his weakness, his sufferings and death, even the death of the cross; and is to be understood of him, not as God, in which sense he is Mighty, yea, the Almighty, and which appears by his works of creation and providence; but as Mediator, and of him in his low and mean estate, and even when he was crucified through weakness; in respect to that very thing in which he was weakness, and so stumbling, to others, he is to them that are called the power of God; as is clear by his bearing all the sins of his people in his own body, on the tree, the cross whereon he was crucified, and all the punishment due thereunto; and yet he failed not, nor was he discouraged, nor did he give out, till he had satisfied law and justice perfectly, and made a full end of sin, and an entire reconciliation for iniquity; as also by destroying, by his death, the devil, who had the power of death, and spoiling all his principalities and powers, triumphing over them on his cross; by redeeming his people from all their sins, and the curse of the law, and from him that was stronger than they; by abolishing death, and at last raising himself from the dead; all which show him, even when and "though" crucified, to be the power of God, or to be possessed of Almighty power; for these are things which a mere creature could never have done: and he is "the wisdom of God", also, in the account of these persons; and which likewise is to be understood, it being opposed to the opinions the Greeks had of him, not of him as the essential wisdom of God, as he is the wise Creator and Governor of the universe; but of him as Mediator, and in respect to that for which the Greeks accounted him foolishness: for in redemption and salvation by a crucified Christ, God hath abounded towards us in all wisdom and prudence: there is in this article a high display of the wisdom of God; for hereby justice was satisfied in that nature which sinned, and Satan destroyed in that nature which he himself had been the ruin of; hereby sin was condemned, and yet the sinner saved; pardon and justification came to be in a way of grace, and yet of strict justice; all the divine perfections harmonize, and are glorified, and God has hereby executed his wise designs and counsels of old; yea, even the wisdom of God is seen in Christ's dying the death of the cross, whereby he appeared to be made a curse for us, that he might redeem us from the curse of the law, and that the blessing of Abraham might come upon us.
1 Corinthians 1:24
The Message of the Cross
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
Christ Is Greater 03 Greater Than Solomon
By Neil Fraser86553:341KI 10:1MAT 12:42MAT 18:201CO 1:181CO 1:24EPH 5:25COL 2:3In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a scene of a man trapped in a burning building, desperately calling for help. Eventually, a fireman arrives and extends a ladder to the man's window, but it barely reaches. Despite the flames reaching out to the fireman, he holds on and the man is able to climb over him to safety. The preacher uses this story to illustrate the concept of salvation and gratitude towards Jesus Christ. He then references the Queen of the South in the Bible, who traveled a great distance to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and compares her actions to the lack of appreciation shown towards Jesus. The sermon concludes with a discussion about the importance of blood and atonement in Christianity and the ethical teachings of Jesus.
Exhortation to the Heathen
By Clement of Alexandria0ISA 55:3JHN 1:1JHN 8:32JHN 10:9JHN 14:6ROM 10:171CO 1:24EPH 2:1TIT 2:11Clement of Alexandria exhorts believers to abandon idolatry and embrace the adoration of the divine Word and God the Father. He contrasts the deceptive allure of myths and idol worship with the truth and salvation offered by Christ. Clement emphasizes the transformative power of the Word of God, which brings salvation, enlightenment, and freedom from the bondage of false beliefs. He highlights the eternal nature of the Word, who existed before the world began and now offers humanity the path to eternal life through faith and obedience.
Becoming a Channel of God's Power
By Evan H. Hopkins01CO 1:24Evan H. Hopkins preaches on the conditions of power in the spiritual life, emphasizing the essential union with Christ for spiritual power in godliness, holiness, and service. He highlights unbelief as the great hindrance to experiencing God's power and the need for faith to grow to increase capacity for God's power to flow. Hopkins stresses the importance of having a perfect heart towards God, which includes being at peace with God, wholly yielded to Him, and in a state of preparedness for His use.
Epistle 181
By George Fox0JOB 28:28ISA 40:4MAT 10:1JHN 6:351CO 1:24EPH 3:9JAS 3:17George Fox preaches about living in the unchangeable power of God to maintain righteousness, truth, love, unity, and dominion over spiritual obstacles and challenges. He emphasizes the importance of patiently waiting in God's power, staying low in love and unity, and serving the Lord diligently in order to overcome earthly distractions and limitations. Fox encourages believers to focus on the wisdom of God, departing from sin, and allowing the seed of God to reign within them, leading to a life of purity, holiness, and spiritual growth in Christ.
The Substantial Excellency of Spiritual Things
By Thomas Watson0PRO 3:21PRO 8:17PRO 8:21ISA 55:2EZK 36:251CO 1:242CO 6:10COL 1:12HEB 10:341PE 1:3REV 3:18Thomas Watson preaches about the substantial excellency of spiritual things, emphasizing the importance of seeking after true substance in Christ and grace. He delves into the qualifications of those who love Christ and the privileges of inheriting substance from God. Watson explains the threefold interpretation of substance as Christ, the grace of the Spirit, and salvation. He urges believers to labor diligently for spiritual substance, highlighting the incomparable worth of grace and the need to trade for it in holy ordinances and seek it from Christ. Watson encourages gratitude for the spiritual substance received and a continual pursuit of more grace to experience increased strength, joy, and glory.
Epistle 248
By George Fox0PSA 8:2JER 9:3MAT 20:31CO 1:24GAL 3:281TH 5:191TI 5:13George Fox emphasizes the importance of keeping meetings in the power of the Lord, encouraging the congregation to not quench the spirit or despise prophesying, but to maintain their testimony in both public and private settings. He urges the community to allow everyone, regardless of gender or age, to contribute to the service and to be valiant for the truth of the Lord on earth. Fox specifically addresses women's meetings, urging women to embrace virtue, love truth, and walk in God's service to fulfill their role in their generation and in the practice of pure religion.
Demonstration 10 (Of Pastors)
By Aphraates0EXO 32:31ZEC 11:9MAT 10:8MAT 11:27MAT 25:29JHN 10:11JHN 21:151CO 1:241CO 9:7Aphraates emphasizes the importance of pastors caring for their flock, drawing examples from biblical figures like Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, and Amos who diligently tended to their sheep before leading people. He contrasts diligent pastors who give themselves for their sheep with hirelings who neglect them, warning of the consequences for those who do not care for the sheep. Aphraates urges pastors to follow the example of the Good Shepherd, Jesus, who gave Himself for the sake of His sheep, and encourages them to nurture and guide their flock with love and dedication.
A Sabbath in Capernaum
By C.I. Scofield0MAT 28:18MRK 1:22JHN 1:12ACT 3:71CO 1:24COL 2:92TI 3:16HEB 1:3C.I. Scofield preaches on the authority and power of Jesus Christ as demonstrated in Mark 1:21-34. He emphasizes how Jesus taught with original, divine authority, contrasting it with the traditional teachings of the scribes. The sermon also highlights the inherent divine power of Christ in casting out demons and performing miracles, showcasing His unmatched authority and sovereignty. Scofield addresses modern tendencies that subtly question Christ's authority, such as the evolutionary hypothesis, low estimations of His person, and challenges to the inspiration of Scriptures, urging believers to hold firm to the unwavering authority and power of Jesus Christ.
Rev. 5:6. the Weakness and the Power of Christ
By Horatius Bonar0The Power of ChristWeakness and StrengthISA 40:29ROM 8:371CO 1:242CO 13:3EPH 6:10PHP 4:13COL 1:112TI 1:71PE 3:18REV 5:6Horatius Bonar emphasizes the profound contrasts in Christ's nature as both the slain Lamb and the powerful Lion of Judah. He explores how Christ's apparent weakness in His incarnation, crucifixion, and the Church's struggles does not negate His true power, which is manifested through the resurrection and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. Bonar reassures believers that despite the visible weakness in the world and the Church, Christ remains mighty and active, ensuring the safety and strength of His followers. The sermon encourages the faithful to rely on Christ's power rather than worldly measures of strength, affirming that true strength comes from being united with the risen Lord. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a recognition of the paradox of weakness and power in the life of Christ and His Church.
Early Testimony
By Norman Grubb0JHN 14:6JHN 15:5ACT 17:281CO 1:24GAL 2:20EPH 1:23COL 2:10COL 3:111JN 4:81JN 5:11Norman Grubb shares his journey of feeling inadequate in his missionary work in Africa, realizing his need for love, faith, and power. He initially sought self-improvement but learned that it was both a sin and impossibility. Through studying the Bible, he discovered that God is love, Christ is the power of God, and Jesus Christ is eternal life. Grubb's ultimate realization was that believers in Christ find their completeness in Him, as 'Christ is all and in all.'
Epistle 213
By George Fox0Identity in ChristPower Of GodGEN 3:15JOB 37:11PSA 82:6ISA 28:16ISA 61:3MAT 16:18JHN 8:36ROM 8:34ROM 14:171CO 1:241CO 3:111CO 4:8EPH 6:162TI 1:10JAS 2:5George Fox emphasizes the importance of dwelling in the life and power of God, which serves as a firm foundation for believers. He encourages the faithful to recognize Christ as their salvation and wisdom, assuring them that they are preserved in sincerity and integrity through God's power. Fox highlights that true freedom is found in Christ, who has triumphed over darkness and offers life and immortality to His followers. He reassures believers of their identity as children of God and heirs to His everlasting kingdom, filled with joy and peace. Ultimately, he calls for a life of praise and glory to God, who is eternal.
Some Directions to the Panting Soul
By Isaac Penington0PRO 3:5MAT 11:28JHN 16:13ROM 1:161CO 1:241CO 2:12HEB 4:31JN 2:271JN 4:1Isaac Penington preaches about finding rest for the soul in the gospel, emphasizing that the true rest, peace, and joy are found in the power and eternal life of God's kingdom. He highlights the importance of walking in the path of Christ's rest, which is clearly outlined in the gospel, and experiencing the power and life that believers in the early days of the gospel enjoyed. Penington urges believers to come under the yoke of Christ's life, as true rest is only found in submitting to His divine nature. He also warns against being deceived by selfish wisdom and emphasizes the need to walk in the light of the Spirit to discern truth from error.
In the Power Live
By George Fox0ROM 8:171CO 1:24EPH 2:14COL 3:151PE 3:8George Fox preaches about dwelling in the Power and Life of God in unity with one another, allowing the Life of God to manifest in their interactions. He emphasizes the importance of staying humble and obedient to the Power of God, avoiding strife by focusing on the unchanging Power of God that brings wisdom and order. Fox encourages recognizing the Seed of Christ in each other, which unites believers as heirs of God's promises, urging them to live in the Power that breaks down barriers and reconciles humanity with God. He concludes with a charge to live in peace, allowing the Peace, Life, and Wisdom of God to govern their lives.
Resisting God, an Effectual Bar to Grace.
By Francois Fenelon0PSA 139:6ROM 11:331CO 1:24EPH 3:10JAS 1:5Greek Word Studies for aid_number 34429 preaches about the manifold wisdom of God, emphasizing its diverse, multi-colored, and multi-faceted nature that surpasses human understanding. The wisdom of God, revealed in Christ, is infinitely diversified and inexhaustible, far beyond what was previously known. It warns against trying to confine God's complex purposes into limited theological boxes, urging worship and praise for His intricate wisdom and love.
Cheap Religion
By A.W. Tozer0DEU 4:6PRO 1:7PRO 3:191CO 1:24COL 2:3JAS 1:5JAS 3:13JAS 3:172PE 3:18Charles Simeon emphasizes that true wisdom is a gift from God, tracing all wisdom back to Him as its author. Spiritual wisdom, in contrast to worldly wisdom, involves living in light of God's revealed will and applying this knowledge to specific situations. Paul highlights that human wisdom is insufficient to comprehend God's plan for salvation, as it is the Holy Spirit who imparts spiritual wisdom. Wisdom is the ability to judge correctly and follow the best course of action based on knowledge and understanding, ultimately coming from God.
Epistle 252
By George Fox0Unity in ChristHumilityPSA 129:6ISA 40:4ISA 42:6JER 3:9ROM 10:8ROM 13:121CO 1:241CO 9:172CO 5:19EPH 6:12COL 4:61TH 2:191TI 4:12HEB 12:231JN 5:9REV 17:14George Fox emphasizes the importance of humility, meekness, and purity for those who minister the gospel. He urges ministers to be examples in their conduct and to avoid ungracious speech, remaining faithful to God's calling. Fox warns against division and encourages unity among believers, highlighting the need to demonstrate the new life in Christ to those still in darkness. He calls for ministers to be valiant for the truth and to preach the light of Christ to all nations, equipping themselves with the armor of God to stand against unrighteousness. Ultimately, he reminds them that the Lamb will have the victory, and they should be each other's joy in the Lord.
Christ in Isaiah - Part 2
By H.J. Vine0Christ as the ServantWisdom Of GodISA 49:1ISA 52:13ISA 53:5ISA 54:11ISA 55:1ISA 59:19MAT 2:14JHN 15:1ROM 9:41CO 1:24H.J. Vine emphasizes the profound wisdom of God as revealed through Christ in Isaiah, illustrating how the Servant of the Lord embodies divine wisdom and purpose. He contrasts the expectations of the mere religionist and the rationalist, showing that true wisdom is found in Christ, who suffered and was exalted for our salvation. The sermon highlights the significance of Christ as the true Israel and the faithful Servant, who restores and brings light to all nations. Vine also reflects on the prophetic nature of Isaiah, affirming that Christ's atoning work fulfills God's promises and secures salvation for both Israel and the Gentiles.
Christ the Power of God (1 Corinthians 1:24, 2:2)
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Power of the CrossSpiritual VictoryJHN 15:5ROM 8:11CO 1:241CO 2:22CO 5:17GAL 6:14EPH 1:19PHP 4:13COL 1:27HEB 12:2T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that Christ is the power of God, particularly through His crucifixion, which is the foundation for true spiritual victory and deliverance. Many Christians struggle with self-effort and legalism, failing to experience the joy and freedom that comes from understanding the completed work of Christ on the cross. The sermon highlights that spiritual progress is not about attaining a standard but about living in relationship with Christ, who empowers believers through the Holy Spirit. Sparks warns against the misconception of 'higher truths' and encourages believers to recognize that the power of God is accessible to all through Christ's finished work. Ultimately, the message is that true deliverance from sin, law, and the world is found in the person of Jesus Christ and His crucifixion.
Epistle 23
By George Fox0Power of God's LoveUnity in ChristJER 23:29JHN 1:1ROM 5:51CO 1:241CO 13:51CO 15:47EPH 4:3EPH 4:16HEB 7:16JAS 1:211JN 4:16George Fox encourages believers to not fear the powers of darkness but to maintain unity and love through the power of God. He emphasizes the importance of meeting together in faith, recognizing the eternal nature of Christ, the second Adam, who transcends earthly struggles. Fox urges friends to remain faithful in God's life and power, allowing Christ to reign among them and fostering a community rooted in peace and love. He highlights the transformative power of God's word, which saves and strengthens the soul against opposition. Ultimately, he calls for a collective commitment to live in the love of God, which builds up the body of Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But unto them which are called - Τοις κλητοις. Those, both of Jews and Greeks, who were by the preaching of the Gospel called or invited to the marriage feast, and have accordingly believed in Christ Jesus; they prove this doctrine to be divinely powerful, to enlighten and convert the soul, and to be a proof of God's infinite wisdom, which has found out such an effectual way to glorify both his justice and mercy, and save, to the uttermost, all that come to him through Christ Jesus. The called, or invited, κλητοι, is a title of genuine Christians, and is frequently used in the New Testament. Ἁγιοι, saints, is used in the same sense.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
called--(compare Co1 1:26). The same class as the "us which are (being) saved" (Co1 1:18); the elect, who have obeyed the call; called effectually (Rom 8:28, Rom 8:30). Christ--"Crucified" is not here added, because when the offense of the cross is overcome, "Christ" is received in all His relations, not only in His cross, but in His life and His future kingdom. power--so meeting all the reasonable requirements of the Jews who sought "a sign." The cross (the death of a slave), which to the Jews (looking for a temporal Messiah) was a "stumbling-block," is really "the power of God" to the salvation of all who believe. wisdom of God--so really exhibiting, and in the highest degree (if they would but see it), that which the Greeks sought after--wisdom (Col 2:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But unto them which are called,.... Effectually, by the grace of God, not merely externally, but internally; these have other sentiments of Christ, and the doctrine of salvation by him; for being called out of darkness, and savingly illuminated by the Spirit of God, they see wisdom, beauty, glory, excellency, and suitableness in Christ, and in his Gospel; and having felt the power of it upon their souls, with them, both Jews and Greeks, of whatsoever nation they be, and whatsoever their prejudices have been, Christ, to them is, the power of God, and the wisdom of God: he is "the power of God"; this is opposed to the Jews who stumbled at his weakness, his sufferings and death, even the death of the cross; and is to be understood of him, not as God, in which sense he is Mighty, yea, the Almighty, and which appears by his works of creation and providence; but as Mediator, and of him in his low and mean estate, and even when he was crucified through weakness; in respect to that very thing in which he was weakness, and so stumbling, to others, he is to them that are called the power of God; as is clear by his bearing all the sins of his people in his own body, on the tree, the cross whereon he was crucified, and all the punishment due thereunto; and yet he failed not, nor was he discouraged, nor did he give out, till he had satisfied law and justice perfectly, and made a full end of sin, and an entire reconciliation for iniquity; as also by destroying, by his death, the devil, who had the power of death, and spoiling all his principalities and powers, triumphing over them on his cross; by redeeming his people from all their sins, and the curse of the law, and from him that was stronger than they; by abolishing death, and at last raising himself from the dead; all which show him, even when and "though" crucified, to be the power of God, or to be possessed of Almighty power; for these are things which a mere creature could never have done: and he is "the wisdom of God", also, in the account of these persons; and which likewise is to be understood, it being opposed to the opinions the Greeks had of him, not of him as the essential wisdom of God, as he is the wise Creator and Governor of the universe; but of him as Mediator, and in respect to that for which the Greeks accounted him foolishness: for in redemption and salvation by a crucified Christ, God hath abounded towards us in all wisdom and prudence: there is in this article a high display of the wisdom of God; for hereby justice was satisfied in that nature which sinned, and Satan destroyed in that nature which he himself had been the ruin of; hereby sin was condemned, and yet the sinner saved; pardon and justification came to be in a way of grace, and yet of strict justice; all the divine perfections harmonize, and are glorified, and God has hereby executed his wise designs and counsels of old; yea, even the wisdom of God is seen in Christ's dying the death of the cross, whereby he appeared to be made a curse for us, that he might redeem us from the curse of the law, and that the blessing of Abraham might come upon us.