The Cross: Foolishness or Power

Today’s full reading: 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5

“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.” (1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV)

There is an undeniable truth to these words that many of us, myself included, have taken for granted. You see, I grew up in a “Christian home” where we went to church every Sunday, read the Bible together often, and prayed together a great deal. Under these circumstances I cannot recall a time when I consciously thought the message of the cross was foolishness. I had heard it my whole life and saw it as God’s act of love toward me.

However, each time I read these words I am reminded that not everyone shares my worldview. In fact, most people do not. The message of the cross is what separates Christianity from all the religions of the world. To some it may seem foolish, but never forget the message of the cross is one of great power.

Today, as an act of worship, praise God for the cross. Ask him to strengthen you with his great power. Pray that you will be “prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (1 Peter 3:15) And pray that those who walk in darkness will turn to Christ through the powerful message of the cross that we proclaim.