Where Is The Wise Man?

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. For it is written: 'I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate" (1 Corinthians 1: 18-19).

Have you ever spoken to anyone about the cross? How did they respond to your words? Often I have found an anger arises for they cannot understand the reason for the cross. They question, "How can the death of a man help anyone?" Those who dispute with us about the necessity of the cross often point to the scientific world, the philosophical world, the archeological world, etc, as proof that there is no God therefore no need of anyone dying for them.  It is more than all of that, it is a destruction of their reasoning by the notion of a God, who just might require something of them they wish not to release.  Their intelligence is frustrated for they rely on the media, professors, others, without investigating by themselves.  There is an unwillingness to make a change, for they love the world they are in and there lifestyle.

They demand a "dog and pony" show, a sign, a miracle, then they just might believe. Far too often we provide that 'dog and pony' show, just watch television and it is all too apparent.  There are many so-called theological scholars that attempt to bring new light to the scriptures and only add to the confusion. That is not to say that all theological scholars are bad, but there needs to be a close examination as to their reasoning.  Much of the 'super-televangelists' no matter how sincere they may be portray a "Tony Robbins" like seminar, a "get rich" wealth and health symposium that attract many to their "show."  No wonder the 'world' is confused, frustrated, and wants little to do with 'religion.'

Paul speaks best, "When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or superior wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power" (1 Corinthians 2:1-5).

So, what is the power of God that Paul demonstrated?  "...But to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God" (1 Corinthians 1:24).  It is the message of the cross that the world needs to hear and the change it brings into our lives is demonstrated so that the power of God is seen and worked in and through us. If I can talk you into becoming a Christian by persuasive wise sounding words, another with greater sounding wisdom will cause that one to change their minds.

It is by the Holy Spirit that we have the ability to speak the wisdom of God to others. "this is what we speak, not in words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words" (1 Corinthians 2:13). Only by taking the time to read and meditate upon God's Word daily, and by prayer are we then prepared to be the witness (the Greek word for this is martyr) denoting one who has given wholly themselves to the truth of God. It is Jesus, and Him crucified, He is our Savior and the Savior of the whole world for those who will accept. How will they hear? Through our testimonial life and words of truth.

Daily Prayer:

Lead my Father into the deep waters of truth that my life so reflects you that others will see a difference a positive difference that causes them to look for the truth I have from and about you.  Thank you Holy Spirit for living in me and teaching me and helping me to be that witness.  I give my all to You.       Amen