For Jews ask for signs, Greeks seek after wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews, and foolishness to Greeks, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God; 1 Corinthians 1:22-24 WEB
Common themes of religious interest are asking for signs and seeking wisdom. Whether we are of Jewish ancestry or gentiles, Paul asserts that Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God to those Jesus calls to him. It is the calling that is most relevant here.
The apostle presents an idea that is troubling to some people. He informs the reader that faith in Christ comes from a calling and not from the intellect or from signs and wonders. Signs may be convincing and intellectual arguments may be persuasive, but salvation comes from hearing, believing, and putting trust in Christ who is the power and the wisdom of God.
Evidence and philosophy lead to understanding but not necessarily to acceptance. Salvation requires the believer to accept what God has done through Christ on the cross. Christians believe in God’s ability and willingness to pay the price for our sin and give us eternal life. We believe that Jesus came to offer salvation and cause us to choose sides in the battle between good and evil.
The Good Shepherd
The bible presents our Savior as the good shepherd gathering his followers and protecting us from evil. The Lord tells us in John 10:27, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. WEB” As Christians, we do not need a sign. The words of Christ ring true to our ears. We recognize the reality of good and evil and the righteousness of the Lord Jesus. This is what draws us to him and the wisdom of God.
Christ tells us in Matthew 16:4, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and there will be no sign given to it, except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” He left them and departed. WEB” Trust in God does not come from signs. The Jews that experienced the miracles with Moses during the Exodus from Egypt still made idols and worshiped false gods soon thereafter. Faith, trust in God, is a choice made by individuals that are called to Christ by the power and wisdom of God.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the gift of salvation. Thank you for calling me into your family. Increase my faith and lead me to live a life that is pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The Sons of God
