JOHN SHIRK – From First Corinthians 1, verses 22 to 24.

Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.

Here we learn that our racial background is not a hindrance to the Gospel. God’s love extends to all the people of the world. Jews and Gentiles are invited to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. However, unbelief is a barrier that keeps people separated from God.

The Gospel is simple enough for a child to understand, and at the same time, contains mysteries that perplex the scholar. It brings comfort to those who are disturbed, and disturbs those who insist on being comfortable.  The message of the cross is foolishness and weakness to the unbeliever, but to those who believe the Gospel, it is the wisdom and power of God.

Through Jesus, we have a testimony of God’s grace to provide for a forgiven past, a present help, and a future hope.

Belief in the Gospel is a vital sign of a changed life in the Year of Transformation.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com