Choose Your God (1 Cor 1:18-31)
God’s Way (vv. 18-25)
The cross is power. The power to save sinners; the power to redeem the lost. However, when we look at the world around us we might not see the need for the salvation of our souls. This world has much to boast about–the accomplishments of the human race are quite astounding. Even on an individual level, there are many thing that we can be proud of in our personal life. However, in the presence of perfection, can we really even being to compare? In the presence of pure holiness and justice, are not our sins laid bare and us, made keenly aware of how we fall short? The cross is for those who have seen our spiritual despair and have looked to God for salvation. It is for the wise who don’t boast in anything but Christ. May Christ be that Person in which we all boast.
Jesus, Christ for All (vv. 26-31)
This world has standards and places for people of different status. We play by these social rules, we advocate, implement and even prefer them. It seems to give us a sense of order and entitlement. At the foot of the cross, however, everything is far more democratic. Sin condemned us all and grace can save us all. So for every single person who claims Christ as Lord, there is salvation. Wherever we are, regardless of money and stature, we are all poor in God’s eyes. We have nothing if we don’t have Christ. Those God has chosen to be a part of HIs kingdom, He will use to build it and to shame this world. This world is unstable as it is and those who have a vision of eternity know that it’s also temporary. Boast in what lasts; boast in the Lord. The rest will be history.
Application
The cross is both a humbling and empowering symbol. It reminds us of our spiritual depravity and empowers us with His grace. This is God’s way; let’s embrace it.
There are moments when we are discontent with where we are in life. But wherever you are God is there–isn’t that enough? Let’s learn the secret of spiritual contentment and patience. Look to eternity; look to the cross.
By night, an atheist half believes in God. ~ Edward Young, Night Thoughts
Prayer
Dear God, we thank You for the cross. We pray that Your mercy and grace would touch the hearts of those who have yet to come to know You as Saviour. Be with Your people and give us strength and confidence. In His Name, Amen.