Monday, 31 March 2014
But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 1 Corinthians 1:27
Verse 27 begins with “but” to show support for what he just stated in the preceding verse which said, “For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called.”
Though many of the “brethren” aren’t wise, mighty, or noble, all they need to do is reflect on the fact that they are of the called despite their worldly state. Instead of skipping over them for those others, “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise.” How many out there with doctoral degrees think ever-so highly of themselves? Professors teach in colleges and seminaries with impressive insights into academic matters and yet they are devoid of any personal relationship with God through Christ. And yet, there are millions of high-school dropouts who have called on Christ and are of the redeemed. Though they are looked down on by those of high learning, they are in fact the ones who have been granted the grace of eternal life.
In addition to them, “God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty.” There are many great athletes who boast in their strength. Because they are so exceptional by worldly standards, they often have great wealth and even move into politics or business later in life. But the puny weaklings who are overlooked have had time to reflect on the more important matters of life. While the athlete is exercising, the weakling is home reading the Bible.
The same is true with the mighty in military, political, or financial power in comparison to the average person who works a regular job and quietly lives his life. Might of any sort is an opiate which replaces one’s instinctive need for God with feelings of self-worth and greatness. Instead of such sorts, God has revealed Himself to those who simply and humbly live their lives and take time to seek Him out.
Life application: Just because someone is prettier, stronger, more intellectual, or more powerful than you, there is no reason to be envious of them. In the end, beauty fades, the strong tire and age, the intellectual become forgetful, and the mighty go to the same grave as the rest. Those who have called on Jesus though have the sure promise that the grave isn’t the end of the story. By the power of Christ, we shall be raised to eternal life. What more could we hope for!
The message is so simple, O God. We need a Savior and You sent Jesus. We have sinned; He is sinless. And the surest proof that my faith is in the right place is the resurrection. I believe the word, I accept the premise – Jesus is Lord. Hallelujah and Amen!