Paul’s First Letter to
the Corinthians: DAY 3
RE-READ 1 Corinthians
1:10 – 2:5
In your journal, write
down the things that stick out to you from today’s Bible reading. Respond to
what God shows you as you feel led.
Paul’s understanding of the Scriptures together with his
knowledge of God and intimate relationship with the risen Christ made him a
passionate evangelist and apostle. Having come out of a hypocritical past where
his own wisdom left much blood on his hands, Paul was fully ready to admit that
man’s wisdom alone is lifeless; it is only through the incredible wisdom of God
that anyone may be saved and find true life. Paul was a humble man who chose to
put aside smart-sounding arguments so that Christ alone would be lifted high.
And through this act of self-death, God could display His power among the
people and thus build their faith.
PRAYER AND MEDITATION
1.
Paul says that “the cross is folly to
those who are perishing” but it is “the power of God” to those “who are being
saved” (v 18). Take time to just think on the cross. Why would the death of
Christ be foolishness to some, but power and wisdom to others? What is Jesus’
death to you?
2.
Paul says twice in the verses you read
that he has chosen only to “preach Christ crucified” (1:23, 2:2). Paul’s choice
to always lift Jesus up high in His preaching was an act of self-death because
in doing so, Paul set aside some of his own preaching abilities. He urged the
Corinthians to boast only in the Lord (1:31). Think about the past week: when
have you boasted in yourself or in others? When have you lifted yourself high
when you could have brought glory to God? Will you confess these things to Him?
3.
In prayer, ask the Holy Spirit to continue
to remind you throughout the day of God’s wisdom in sending Jesus to the cross.
Ask the Lord to help you lift Jesus high in all you say and do today.
