Read: I Corinthians 1:18-2:5
Think: In I Corinthians 2:2 Paul says, “For I decided that while I was with you, I would forget everything except Jesus Christ, the one who was crucified.” Paul’s message to the Corinthians—before he addresses their spiritual immaturity—is to remind them that the main message of Christianity is Jesus Christ and Him crucified (even though he admits that the cross is both foolish and offensive to Jews and the Greeks alike)! There is so much theology packed into these verses, yet Paul is not attempting to persuade people because of his “lofty words and impressive wisdom.” Instead, he suggests that “if you want to boast, boast only about the Lord.”
Act: Many people are afraid to share their faith, often because they don’t have all the answers. In the first two chapters of I Corinthians, Paul suggests that wisdom, intelligence and knowledge can actually get in the way of faith! He—the great evangelist and orator—preferred to use plain words, rather than clever and persuasive speeches, relying on the Holy Spirit’s power and God’s wisdom! How comforting! I recall speaking at a juvenile detention center and thinking, “How am I ever going to reach these kids—I don’t have their background, I’ve never been to jail, and I am so much older?” I trembled and prayed a simple prayer and asked God to speak through me—and He did! He gave me my opening lines: “You may have gone to bed last night blaming God for your problems. But God is not your problem. He is your answer.” It was that simple. More importantly, it was all they needed to hear. Today, determine to share the name, person and power of Jesus Christ—and Him crucified—with someone who is looking for a solution to their problems.
Pray: Jesus, help me to remember that talking about my faith is simply telling others what You did when You died on the cross: You forgave my sins—past, present, and future. You gave me the power of Your Holy Spirit to live an abundant life on earth. And You gave me the free, undeserved gift of eternal life. Thank You, Jesus. I love You! Amen.
Be full of faith today!
