May 14, 2012
1 Corinthians 1:23- “…But we preach Christ crucified: a
stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles…”
Interpretation: The power of the cross is the end game of
Christianity. The power of the cross is the fruit of life. It is love so
amazing that it was innocently and obediently led to death for the sake of the
life of all who will put their faith in Christ alone. Why is Christ being
crucified a stumbling block to Jews? Through the book of Acts Paul always
preached in the synagogues first. He would bring up the scriptures and point
towards Christ, but they always wanted to remain under the law. Romans 6:14
says, “For sin shall not be your master, because you are not under law, but
under grace.” (Romans 7:5-6 also good) Jesus came for the sake of love and
grace; He came not to enforce the law but to demolish it. Religious people do
not want to accept this. No one is good but God alone, and no one can get into
Heaven on their own righteousness. The cross of God is foolishness to Gentiles
because they are not even trying to keep the law. Jews and religious leaders
don’t want to recognize grace, while Gentiles just want to live a good life.
What is the cross to me? Not a stumbling block but a stepping-stone, not
foolishness but logic and beauty. The cross is the key to the lock I have slung
over the 10 foot high stone wall prison I built to protect my heart. The cross
sets us free, mentally, spiritually, emotionally. The cross is power. The cross
is death, and the cross is life to those who seek it.
Application: I want to preach Christ being crucified, but I
need to remember that my own words won’t make the ultimate difference. The word
of God is what penetrates hearts, along with prayer. I will find my note cards
today and write down people’s names on them who I know need prayer. In the
mornings I can shuffle them and will pray for whoever comes up!
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