1 Corinthians 1:25
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The foolishness of God is wiser, etc. - The meaning of these strong expressions is, that the things of God's appointment, which seem to men foolishness, are infinitely beyond the highest degree of human wisdom; and those works of God, which appear to superficial observers weak and contemptible, surpass all the efforts of human power. The means which God has appointed for the salvation of men are so wisely imagined and so energetically powerful, that all who properly use them shall be infallibly brought to the end - final blessedness, which he has promised to them who believe and obey.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
foolishness of God--that is, God's plan of salvation which men deem "foolishness." weakness of God--Christ "crucified through weakness" (Co2 13:4, the great stumbling-block of the Jews), yet "living by the power of God." So He perfects strength out of the weakness of His servants (Co1 2:3; Co2 12:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Because the foolishness of God,.... Not that there is any such thing as "foolishness" in God, nor the least degree of weakness in him; but the apostle means that which the men of the world esteem so, and therefore, by an ironical concession, calls it by those names; by which is intended either Christ, who, as crucified, is counted foolishness; yet he "is wiser than men": yea, even than Solomon, who was wiser than all men besides; Christ is greater than he in wisdom, having all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in him; yea, in redemption by the blood of his cross, which is accounted such an egregious instance of folly, there is such a display of wisdom as surpasses all the wisdom of men and angels: and though he is, as crucified, esteemed as the weakness of God, yet in this respect, is stronger than men; stronger than the strong man armed; and has done that by his own arm, has brought salvation for his people, which neither men nor angels could ever have done: or all this may be understood of the Gospel of Christ, which is condemned as folly and weakness, and yet has infinitely more wisdom in it, than is to be found in the best concerted schemes of the wisest philosophers; and has had a greater influence on the minds and manners of men than theirs ever had; it is the manifold wisdom of God, and the power of God unto salvation. Moreover, these words may be applied to the saints, called in Co1 1:27. the foolish and weak things of the world; and yet even these, in the business of salvation, how foolish soever they may be in other respects, are wiser than the wisest of men destitute of the grace of God; and however weak they are in themselves, in their own esteem, and in the account of others, they are able to do and suffer such things, through the strength of Christ that no other men in the world are able to perform or endure. The phrases here used seem to be a sort of proverbial ones; and the sense of them is, that whatever, in things divine and spiritual, has the appearance of folly and weakness, or is judged to be so by carnal men, is wiser and stronger not only than the wisdom and strength of men, but than men themselves with all their wisdom and strength. It is very likely, that proverbial expressions of this kind, with a little alteration, were used by the Jews. The advice the young men gave to Rehoboam is thus paraphrased by the Targumist (o), , "my weakness is stronger than the strength of my father"; which is very near the same with the last clause of this verse, (o) In 2 Chron. x. 10.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:25 What the unbelieving world considers foolish and weak—Christ and the message of the cross—is in reality wiser and stronger than anything the world has to offer. It solves the world’s greatest problem, the problem of sin, and overcomes all the powers of evil that oppose human beings.
1 Corinthians 1:25
The Message of the Cross
24but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. 25For the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man’s strength.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Grace of Yielding - Part 1
By Derek Prince14K36:39MAT 6:33ROM 8:9ROM 15:11CO 1:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of yielding and recognizing one's weaknesses. He refers to a verse from Acts chapter 17, where Paul speaks about God overlooking the ignorance of idolatry for a brief moment but now commanding everyone to repent. The speaker emphasizes that just because God allowed someone to get away with something in the past, it doesn't mean they can continue doing it. He then shares personal experiences and scriptures, including Romans 15:1, to highlight the importance of bearing the weaknesses of others and learning from the weakness and foolishness of the cross. The sermon concludes with a story about the speaker's wife allowing Arab women to attend a gathering, which led to blessings for all involved.
The Double Portion / the Baptism of the Spirit
By William P. Nicholson1.7K57:002KI 2:1JER 17:5MAT 6:33MAT 16:24ROM 10:91CO 1:251CO 9:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being chosen by God to do His work, even if one feels insignificant or weak. He uses the analogy of wearing multiple layers of animal skins to illustrate the weight and responsibility of preaching the word of God. The preacher also highlights the need for a burning enthusiasm for God, rather than just a superficial love for Him. He warns against being complacent in one's faith and encourages listeners to seek a double portion of God's blessings through obedience and a willingness to be used by Him.
Paganism the Cancer of the Church
By Art Katz92900:00PaganismMAT 24:14JHN 1:1ACT 20:241CO 1:25EPH 5:18EPH 6:12COL 2:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of choosing righteousness and truth over sentiment and personal loyalty. He shares a personal example of giving up property for the sake of justice and righteousness for the church and the kingdom. The speaker warns against the danger of being swayed by sentimental considerations, especially when it comes to our own children. He contrasts the Hebrew Christian vision rooted in the revelation of Israel's God with the worldly concepts of beauty, virtue, truth, justice, and humanity. The speaker concludes with a prayer for God's guidance and the ability to follow His teachings.
The Gospel According to Isaiah
By William MacDonald80834:36GospelGEN 15:6PSA 96:12ISA 55:1HAB 2:4JHN 7:371CO 1:211CO 1:25In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a couple who lived empty lives, focused on material pleasures and entertainment. He emphasizes the tragedy of people living their lives like hamsters on a wheel, going around in circles and getting nowhere. The preacher then discusses the transformation that occurs when Jesus comes into a person's heart, comparing it to a briar bush becoming a cypress tree. He concludes by inviting the congregation to accept Jesus into their hearts and seek forgiveness for their sins, emphasizing the urgency of seeking the Lord while he may be found.
The Grace of Yielding - Derek Prince
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons80158:01RadioMAT 6:33ROM 8:9ROM 15:11CO 1:25In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of attending a fellowship retreat with well-known charismatic teachers. They discussed various topics such as demons and water baptism. The speaker emphasizes the importance of faith as a dynamic and ongoing process, using the example of Abraham's faith in the book of Genesis. He also highlights the scriptural principle of bearing the weaknesses of others as a mark of strength. The message concludes with the idea that while Christians should never yield to Satan or sin, there are situations in life that can only be resolved through learning to yield.
The God of Isaac
By Robert Constable78936:53IsaacMAT 6:33ROM 8:21CO 1:25In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the Christian life is not about trying to copy Jesus or following strict rules, but rather about allowing Jesus to live through us. The speaker encourages listeners to let Jesus make them into what He wants them to be. They highlight the difference between struggling to do our best and losing, versus surrendering to God and experiencing victory and freedom. The sermon also discusses the God of Isaac, who is portrayed as someone who lets others do things for him and has an easy life. The speaker encourages listeners to submit to God and trust in His provision.
David's Core Reality: Identity in Intimacy and Meekness
By Mike Bickle191:02:07Identity in ChristIntimacy With God1SA 13:141SA 16:72SA 5:12PSA 37:11PSA 139:14MAT 5:5JHN 6:151CO 1:252CO 5:14JAS 4:10Mike Bickle emphasizes the profound identity of David rooted in intimacy with God and meekness before men. He illustrates how David's sense of success was not based on external achievements or positions but on his relationship with God and his ability to love others. Bickle encourages believers to cultivate their identity in God, finding value in being loved and loving in return, rather than seeking validation through worldly measures of success. He highlights that true success is defined by the movements of the heart towards God, which leads to a steady spirit regardless of life's ups and downs.
Reading the Holy Scripture
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 119:160PRO 2:11CO 1:25COL 3:162TI 3:16Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the importance of seeking truth rather than eloquence when reading the Holy Scriptures, focusing on understanding the spirit in which each part was written to gain profit over polished diction. He encourages reading both simple and profound books with equal willingness, not being swayed by the authority of the writer but by the love of simple truth, as the truth of the Lord endures forever. Kempis warns against letting curiosity impede the reading of Scriptures by overanalyzing instead of reading with humility, simplicity, and faith, without seeking a reputation for being learned.
Naïveté: The Tragic Beheading of Nicholas Berg
By Art Katz0Human NatureNaïvetéPSA 146:3PRO 14:12ISA 5:20JER 17:9MAT 10:16JHN 16:33ROM 3:231CO 1:25EPH 6:122TI 3:1Art Katz reflects on the tragic fate of Nicholas Berg, emphasizing how his naïveté and idealism led him into a perilous situation in Iraq. Katz critiques Berg's belief in the inherent goodness of people and the dangers of underestimating the complexities of human nature and geopolitical realities. He draws parallels between Berg's fate and broader societal misconceptions, including the misguided optimism of political leaders like President Bush regarding democracy in the Middle East. Katz warns that such idealism, detached from the truth of human sinfulness and the realities of the world, can lead to devastating consequences. He calls for a return to the understanding of God’s truth to navigate the complexities of life and conflict.
God's Ways Above Man's
By Edward Payson0JOB 38:4PRO 3:5ISA 55:8ROM 3:28ROM 11:331CO 1:251CO 1:27EPH 2:8HEB 12:6JAS 2:5Edward Payson preaches about the incomprehensible ways and thoughts of God, emphasizing that His ways are higher than ours as the heavens are above the earth. Payson delves into the reasons why God's thoughts and ways surpass ours, highlighting God's exalted position, nature, wisdom, knowledge, power, eternity, holiness, and benevolence. He explores various instances where God's ways differ from human expectations, such as in permitting evil, providing salvation through Christ, choosing instruments for spreading the Gospel, and dealing with His people's sanctification. Payson concludes by urging faith in God's wisdom and submission to His will, acknowledging that our understanding is limited compared to the infinite wisdom of God.
Who's Ruling the World?
By Warren Wiersbe0PSA 9:17ISA 40:29ROM 1:251CO 1:25Warren Wiersbe preaches about the danger of man trying to exalt himself above God, a mindset that originated in the Garden of Eden when Satan tempted Adam and Eve to be like God. Despite the world's current appearance of man prevailing, the psalmist reminds us that ultimately, the wicked will face judgment and all nations that forget God will be turned into hell. Wiersbe emphasizes the importance of recognizing our frailty as humans and submitting to God's authority, acknowledging that God's purposes will prevail and we can find strength in Him.
The Fool's Creed
By R.A. Torrey0Surrender to GodThe Existence of GodPSA 14:1PSA 19:1PRO 1:7ISA 45:22JER 29:13MAT 7:7JHN 14:6ROM 1:201CO 1:25HEB 11:6R.A. Torrey delivers a compelling sermon titled 'The Fool's Creed,' emphasizing that the declaration 'there is no God' is the ultimate folly. He argues that the existence of God is evident through the wonders of the universe, the course of history, the uniqueness of the Bible, and personal experiences of answered prayer and salvation. Torrey asserts that denying God's existence not only reflects ignorance but also leads to a bleak worldview devoid of hope and purpose. He calls for individuals to recognize the reality of God and to surrender their lives to Him, as this is the only wise response to the truth of His existence.
The Theistic Argument
By Olin Alfred Curtis0PSA 19:1PRO 3:5ISA 55:8ROM 1:201CO 1:25Olin Alfred Curtis delves into the complexities of demonstrating the existence of a good, wise, living, and personal God, acknowledging the challenges in proving it conclusively but emphasizing the multitude of convincing reasons for belief. He explores the concept of anthropomorphism and the inherent human tendency to attribute human attributes to the Great Cause of things, drawing parallels between personal experiences and the understanding of causation and intention in the universe. Curtis discusses the theistic argument as a rational explanation of the universe, highlighting the importance of personal experience in shaping our understanding of causation, power, and intention in the cosmos.
Ants Go to Picnics
By Walter Wilson0GEN 6:22EXO 12:13PRO 6:6PRO 30:251CO 1:25In this sermon by Walter Wilson, he draws parallels between the wisdom of King Solomon's observation of the ant and the lessons we can learn from these tiny creatures. Just as ants diligently prepare for the future by storing food for the winter, we are encouraged to prepare for the spiritual storms ahead by seeking Christ Jesus as our refuge. The ants' respect for ownership and their diligent work ethic serve as reminders for us to respect others and work tirelessly in our faith journey, spreading the Gospel like the ants spread their 'finds' to others.
The Doctrine of Truth
By Thomas a Kempis0PRO 3:7PRO 16:32ECC 1:2MAT 23:12JHN 14:61CO 1:251CO 3:181CO 13:13PHP 2:3JAS 1:22Thomas a Kempis emphasizes the importance of seeking truth as it truly is, beyond signs and fading words, cautioning against being deceived by opinions and senses. He highlights the folly of engaging in irrelevant and harmful discussions while neglecting profitable and necessary matters. Kempis encourages simplicity of heart, recollection, and self-mastery as paths to understanding sublime things and advancing in virtue, stressing the significance of living well over mere learning. He reminds listeners that on Judgment Day, actions and virtues will be weighed more than knowledge and eloquence, urging a focus on serving God and renouncing self for true greatness.
God's Wisdom in Christ 1 Corinthians 1
By John Nelson Darby0Righteousness in ChristGod's WisdomJER 9:24ROM 3:231CO 1:25John Nelson Darby emphasizes that the foolishness of man, including that of believers, serves to highlight God's wisdom. He explains that all human righteousness and pride are ultimately broken down in God's presence, leaving no room for boasting except in the Lord. Darby illustrates that true wisdom and righteousness come from Christ, who offers redemption and sanctification, allowing believers to glory in Him rather than in their own achievements or sins. He contrasts the folly of self-righteousness with the divine wisdom found in Christ, who provides a way for sinners to be reconciled to God. Ultimately, Darby encourages believers to embrace their identity in Christ, recognizing that their worth and righteousness are rooted in Him alone.
Humbly Imitate Christ and Submit Reason to Holy Faith
By Thomas a Kempis0PSA 25:9PRO 3:51CO 1:25JAS 4:101PE 5:6Thomas a Kempis preaches about the importance of faith, humility, and sincere devotion when approaching the Sacrament, warning against excessive curiosity and vain examination that can lead to doubt. He emphasizes the need to trust in God's power and not rely solely on human understanding, urging believers to submit to God with humble reason and sincere faith. Kempis highlights the significance of simplicity, obedience to God's commandments, and the avoidance of unnecessary disputes that can hinder one's devotion. He encourages believers to resist the temptations of the enemy, to believe in the words of God and His saints, and to approach the Sacrament with unwavering faith and reverence.
Joshua Chapter 8 Kirjath-Sepher, or the Mind of Christ
By A.B. Simpson0Mind of ChristVictory over the Carnal MindISA 58:11JHN 7:38ROM 12:21CO 1:252CO 10:5GAL 5:22EPH 4:23PHP 2:5JAS 3:62PE 1:3A.B. Simpson explores the significance of Kirjath-Sepher and the mind of Christ, emphasizing the need for believers to conquer their natural minds and thoughts through faith. He illustrates how Othniel's victory over Kirjath-Sepher symbolizes the triumph of the spiritual life over the carnal mind, leading to the reception of divine grace, represented by Achsah. Simpson highlights that true sanctification involves surrendering our old thoughts and receiving the mind of Christ, which transforms our character and speech. He encourages believers to seek the springs of grace that flow from God, which empower them to live a life of victory and abundance. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a radical transformation of the mind and heart to align with God's will and purpose.
Papal Infallibility
By Ian Paisley0PSA 146:3JER 17:51CO 1:251TI 6:16REV 19:16Ian Paisley delivers a sermon critiquing the claim of infallibility within the Papal system, emphasizing that infallibility belongs only to God and not to any human being. He highlights the inconsistencies and imperfections of Peter, questioning the audacity of his professed successors to claim such an attribute. Paisley exposes the historical record of the Popes, depicting a lineage marred by impiety, profligacy, and wickedness, challenging the notion of Papal infallibility. He dissects the arguments for infallibility in both the Pope and General Councils, ultimately concluding that the belief in Papal infallibility is preposterous and devoid of substantial grounds.
New Discoveries
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0GEN 1:12KI 18:4PSA 19:1ISA 40:8NAM 3:1ROM 1:201CO 1:25Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the discovery of new records found, such as the achievements of Sennacherib and the ancient civilization of Ethiopia, which confirm certain parts of the Bible. The sermon also touches on the ruins of Nineveh, predicting its destruction as foretold in Nahum, and the impending judgment on great cities in the present age. Additionally, the sermon discusses the discovery of Beth-Shemesh in Palestine and the continued attacks on the Bible by the claims and theories of science regarding the origin of life and the age of the earth.
Chasing Truth
By A.W. Tozer0Moral Integrity in ThinkingPursuit of TruthPSA 119:105PRO 1:7PRO 2:6JHN 8:32ROM 12:21CO 1:25PHP 4:8COL 2:32TI 3:16JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the essential qualities required for effective thinking, which include honesty, courage, and a willingness to obey truth. He warns that the timid may avoid self-discovery, while sincere seekers must approach truth with a readiness to act upon it. Tozer also highlights the importance of knowledge, cautioning against narrow-mindedness and the dangers of learning without thoughtful reflection. He asserts that true wisdom is moral and cannot coexist with evil, and that a comprehensive understanding of Scripture and the Christian faith is crucial for creative thought. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a deeper engagement with both knowledge and moral integrity in the pursuit of truth.
Wisdom From God
By A.W. Tozer0Theological UnderstandingEternal WisdomPSA 90:12PRO 2:6ECC 3:11ISA 40:28JHN 17:3ROM 12:21CO 1:25COL 3:2JAS 1:52PE 3:8A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of a high view of God's eternity over the fleeting answers provided by modern science and technology. He argues that while science may extend our physical lives, it cannot provide the ultimate purpose or meaning of existence, which is found in a relationship with God. Tozer asserts that true wisdom comes from understanding God's nature and the eternal truths revealed in Scripture. He encourages believers to value the eternal over the temporal and to recognize their unique understanding of life's purpose. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a return to theological answers as the foundation for understanding creation and existence.
Evangelical Intellectualism and the Spirit's Power
By A.W. Tozer0The Power of the Holy SpiritFaith vs. ReasonPRO 3:5ISA 55:8JHN 16:13ROM 12:21CO 1:251CO 2:14EPH 1:17COL 2:82TI 3:7JAS 1:5A.W. Tozer addresses the rise of evangelical intellectualism, critiquing the belief that the essence of Christianity can be fully understood through human intellect and philosophy. He argues that this movement, driven by a desire to gain respectability among scholars, risks reducing the profound truths of the Christian faith to mere rational propositions. Tozer warns that such an approach could undermine the true essence of faith, equating it with human reasoning rather than divine revelation. He emphasizes the danger of prioritizing intellectualism over the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in understanding and living out the Christian faith.
Adolf Schlatter Quotes
By Adolf Schlatter0PRO 1:7ROM 12:21CO 1:25COL 2:82TI 3:16Adolf Schlatter emphasizes the importance of reading and interpreting the New Testament with a focus on God-directed ideas, warning against solely explaining religion based on worldly factors. He highlights the necessity for theological faculties to maintain a strong foundation in God-centered concepts to avoid reaching a dead end. Schlatter also stresses the significance of mastering scientific methods in theology to ensure progress in the coming decades. Additionally, he encourages deriving investigative questions from the New Testament material itself rather than solely relying on dogmatic traditions.
Testing Our Weakness
By Herbert Henry Farmer0PRO 3:5MAT 14:28JHN 14:61CO 1:25HEB 11:6Herbert Henry Farmer emphasizes the importance of aspiring to the highest ideals and continually testing ourselves through lofty professions, like Peter stepping out in faith onto the water. He highlights the folly of fearing failure and maintaining a worthless consistency out of egotism, urging instead for a generous impulse to learn through defeat and grow in self-knowledge and knowledge of Christ. Farmer stresses that true conviction in Christ as the Way, the Truth, and the Life comes from facing life's challenges with Him, beginning with a plunge into Christian discipleship and a grand experiment of trusting Him.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The foolishness of God is wiser, etc. - The meaning of these strong expressions is, that the things of God's appointment, which seem to men foolishness, are infinitely beyond the highest degree of human wisdom; and those works of God, which appear to superficial observers weak and contemptible, surpass all the efforts of human power. The means which God has appointed for the salvation of men are so wisely imagined and so energetically powerful, that all who properly use them shall be infallibly brought to the end - final blessedness, which he has promised to them who believe and obey.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
foolishness of God--that is, God's plan of salvation which men deem "foolishness." weakness of God--Christ "crucified through weakness" (Co2 13:4, the great stumbling-block of the Jews), yet "living by the power of God." So He perfects strength out of the weakness of His servants (Co1 2:3; Co2 12:9).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Because the foolishness of God,.... Not that there is any such thing as "foolishness" in God, nor the least degree of weakness in him; but the apostle means that which the men of the world esteem so, and therefore, by an ironical concession, calls it by those names; by which is intended either Christ, who, as crucified, is counted foolishness; yet he "is wiser than men": yea, even than Solomon, who was wiser than all men besides; Christ is greater than he in wisdom, having all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge in him; yea, in redemption by the blood of his cross, which is accounted such an egregious instance of folly, there is such a display of wisdom as surpasses all the wisdom of men and angels: and though he is, as crucified, esteemed as the weakness of God, yet in this respect, is stronger than men; stronger than the strong man armed; and has done that by his own arm, has brought salvation for his people, which neither men nor angels could ever have done: or all this may be understood of the Gospel of Christ, which is condemned as folly and weakness, and yet has infinitely more wisdom in it, than is to be found in the best concerted schemes of the wisest philosophers; and has had a greater influence on the minds and manners of men than theirs ever had; it is the manifold wisdom of God, and the power of God unto salvation. Moreover, these words may be applied to the saints, called in Co1 1:27. the foolish and weak things of the world; and yet even these, in the business of salvation, how foolish soever they may be in other respects, are wiser than the wisest of men destitute of the grace of God; and however weak they are in themselves, in their own esteem, and in the account of others, they are able to do and suffer such things, through the strength of Christ that no other men in the world are able to perform or endure. The phrases here used seem to be a sort of proverbial ones; and the sense of them is, that whatever, in things divine and spiritual, has the appearance of folly and weakness, or is judged to be so by carnal men, is wiser and stronger not only than the wisdom and strength of men, but than men themselves with all their wisdom and strength. It is very likely, that proverbial expressions of this kind, with a little alteration, were used by the Jews. The advice the young men gave to Rehoboam is thus paraphrased by the Targumist (o), , "my weakness is stronger than the strength of my father"; which is very near the same with the last clause of this verse, (o) In 2 Chron. x. 10.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:25 What the unbelieving world considers foolish and weak—Christ and the message of the cross—is in reality wiser and stronger than anything the world has to offer. It solves the world’s greatest problem, the problem of sin, and overcomes all the powers of evil that oppose human beings.