1 Corinthians 1:18-31 - The Wisdom of God vs. the Wisdom of the World

Jake and Emma discuss:

Scripture Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (ESV)

Episode Summary:

In today’s episode, we dive deep into Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he contrasts human wisdom with God’s wisdom, as seen through the message of the cross. We explore how the gospel appears foolish to those who are perishing but is the power of God to those who are being saved. This passage challenges the world’s understanding of wisdom and strength, showing how God uses what seems weak and foolish to reveal His true power and wisdom.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Message of the Cross (v. 18):

• The gospel of the cross is perceived as foolishness by the world but is the power of God to those being saved. This highlights the two responses to God’s wisdom.

2. Human Wisdom vs. God’s Wisdom (v. 19-20):

• Paul refers to Isaiah 29:14, explaining how God destroys worldly wisdom, emphasizing that salvation cannot be attained by human understanding but by divine revelation.

3. God’s Foolishness is Wiser (v. 21-25):

• While Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, God chose to save through the “foolishness” of the crucified Christ. This reinforces that God’s ways are far beyond human comprehension.

4. God Chooses the Lowly (v. 26-29):

• Paul reminds the Corinthians that many of them were not of high social status. God chooses the weak and despised to shame the strong, showing that no one can boast before God.

5. Christ as Our Wisdom and Righteousness (v. 30-31):

• Believers are in Christ because of God’s work, not their own merits. Jesus is the source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption, so all boasting should be in the Lord alone.

Reformed Theological Insights:

• Total Depravity: Apart from God’s grace, human wisdom cannot grasp the gospel.

• Unconditional Election: God’s choice to save is based on His grace, not human merit.

• Irresistible Grace: God’s calling is effectual, drawing His elect to faith.

• Soli Deo Gloria: All glory for salvation belongs to God alone.

Discussion Questions:

• How does God’s wisdom differ from human wisdom in your life?

• Why do you think the message of the cross is viewed as foolish by some?

• In what ways do we see God’s power demonstrated in the “weak” things of the world?

Resources:

• 1 Corinthians 1:18-31 ESV

• Additional commentary on 1 Corinthians by Reformed theologians.