Why is the message of the cross foolishness? The Jews were looking to the law to save them. The Messiah was supposed to bring about national independence, not personal redemption! “Give us a sign to prove that it’s true,” they say. The Greeks elevated logic, wisdom, and rhetoric. The idea of a man dying for their sins was ludicrous, and a message extoling the sacrifice and humility of the cross was absurd. And yet God uses the cross and the “foolishness of preaching” to display His wisdom (1:21, 25). Not much has changed today. People still want absolute proof or a miraculous sign before they believe.
God’s foolishness is even seen in who He calls. “Not many were wise, by human standards, not many were powerful, not many were born to a privileged position” (1:26). Remember that the announcement of Jesus’ birth didn’t go to the rulers, but to shepherds! “God chose what the world thinks foolish to shame the wise” (1:27). God chose the lowly and despised so that no one could boast in His presence (1:29). There is nothing good in us, righteous in us, or praiseworthy in us. God is the reason we have a relationship with Christ Jesus, and it is through Him that we receive wisdom, righteousness, sanctification and redemption (1:30). Hallelujah! What a Savior!
For worship: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCRtq1XOAOo
Pastor Billington's Blog 