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.
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.
Who's Ruling the World?
By Warren Wiersbe1PSA 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.
Ants Go to Picnics
By Walter Wilson1GEN 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.
Faith Makes Men Strong
By C.H. Spurgeon0Strength in BeliefFaithPSA 27:14PRO 3:5MAT 17:20ROM 10:171CO 1:252CO 5:7EPH 6:10PHP 4:13HEB 11:1JAS 1:6C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes that true strength comes from faith in the heart rather than intellectual skepticism. He critiques those who demand proof before believing, labeling them as headstrong and ultimately weak, as their obstinacy reveals a lack of true wisdom. Spurgeon argues that doubters often project their own faults onto believers, mistaking their own skepticism for strength. He asserts that the real wisdom lies in faith, which empowers individuals in times of trouble, contrasting the folly of modern doubt with the steadfastness of belief.
Homily 3 on Ephesians
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 128:31CO 1:251CO 11:26EPH 1:15COL 3:1John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of understanding the blessings and power available to believers through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the need for spiritual wisdom and revelation to grasp the hope of God's calling and the riches of His glory. Chrysostom highlights the exalted position of Christ, seated at the right hand of God, far above all rule and authority, emphasizing the significance of Christ as the Head of the Church. He urges believers to approach the Eucharist with purity and reverence, reminding them of the great honor and responsibility of partaking in the body and blood of Christ.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
On Arguing Concerning the Apostolical Succession. on Reluctance to Confess the Apostolical Succession
By J.H. Newman0JDG 8:23MAT 23:231CO 1:251TI 5:22HEB 12:16J.H. Newman preaches about the importance of upholding the Apostolic Succession in the Church, emphasizing the duty to carefully examine and understand this doctrine, even if faced with doubts or ridicule, as it may involve a significant talent entrusted by God. He warns against the temptation to dismiss or downplay this doctrine due to fear of controversy or desire to focus on what is perceived as more essential, reminding that all aspects of the Gospel are important and should not be neglected.
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.
Precept and Practice
By W.R. Inge0PRO 9:9MAT 23:81CO 1:25JAS 3:17W.R. Inge emphasizes the value of having one master who embodies a life of wisdom and virtue over a thousand masters who are experts in reading and knowledge. He points out that while seeking a master in scriptures may lead one to prestigious institutions like Paris and high learning schools, true guidance on living a perfect life can only be found in someone with a simple and pure nature.
Religion of the Heart
By Joseph Parker0JHN 7:15ROM 5:11CO 1:25PHP 4:71PE 1:8Joseph Parker emphasizes that true religion is not learned through academic knowledge but is a divine experience in the soul, a communion with God that transcends human understanding. He contrasts the eloquence of heartfelt emotion and genuine connection with God to the superficiality of religious practices based on routine and tradition. Parker encourages embracing the various expressions of faith and learning, highlighting that Christianity is about peace, joy, and a profound relationship with God that surpasses human comprehension.
The Nature of True Christianity
By Derek Melton0PSA 51:17MAT 20:22JHN 12:241CO 1:251CO 1:27GAL 5:24JAS 1:14Derek Melton preaches about the importance of crucifying the flesh with its affections and lusts, highlighting the alarming trend of Christians living in carnality and secularism, failing to distinguish themselves from unbelievers due to their love for worldly things. He emphasizes the need for believers to daily take their old nature to the Cross, surrendering their sinful desires to experience the power of resurrection and victory in Christ. By choosing the bitter cup of Christ over the sweet cup of the world, believers can produce spiritual fruit and find strength in weakness, humility, and servanthood, as God values brokenness and contrition over worldly wisdom and accomplishments.
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.
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.
- 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.