A simple message from 1 Corinthians 1:17–25
The good news about Jesus is simple: He died for our sins and rose again. Through Him, God offers forgiveness, new life, and salvation to everyone who believes. The cross is not a sign of defeat. It shows God’s power to save.
The Gospel Comes First
Paul’s work was to preach the good news about Jesus. He did not want to impress people with clever words or build a following around himself. He wanted people to trust Christ. The church must keep this same message at the center of its life (1 Corinthians 1:17; Romans 1:16).
We have all sinned. We cannot make ourselves right with God through our own goodness. Our hope is in Jesus and what He has done for us. We begin the Christian life by faith, and we keep walking by faith.
God’s Power in the Cross
Some people see the cross as foolish or weak. But believers see the Son of God giving His life to save sinners. Jesus carried our sins and suffered in our place. His sacrifice opens the way for us to be made right with God (1 Corinthians 1:18; Isaiah 53:5–6; 1 Peter 2:24).
Our deepest hope and joy are found in Christ. By His death, we receive life. We do not have to earn God’s forgiveness. We trust the Savior who gave Himself for us.
God’s Wisdom Is Greater Than Ours
Human learning and skill cannot save us. God chose to save those who believe through the message of Christ crucified. The message may seem foolish to the world, but that does not mean we should speak carelessly or without thought. We should share it clearly and faithfully.
There is no foolishness or weakness in God. What people call weak is stronger than human strength. What they call foolish is wiser than human wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:19–25).
Take this to heart: Your hope rests in Jesus, not in how much you know or how strong you feel. Trust Him for forgiveness and new life.
This same message shapes how we live. Because Jesus gave Himself for us, we can love others, serve with humility, and share His good news.
Love One Another
Every believer needs the same Savior. We should not let pride, favorite leaders, or arguments about lesser things divide us. Jesus prayed for His people to be one, and Paul called believers to unity (John 17:20–23; 1 Corinthians 1:10–13; Ephesians 4:3–6).
We may not agree on every detail, but we can still treat one another with love. Be patient. Listen well. Forgive freely. When Christians love one another, others can see the character of Jesus (John 13:34–35).
Share Jesus in Simple Words
You do not need a grand speech to tell someone about Jesus. Explain the good news honestly: we have sinned, Jesus died for our sins and rose again, and we can trust Him for forgiveness and salvation.
Paul wanted faith to rest on God’s power, not on a speaker’s skill. Speak clearly, faithfully, and with love. Keep Christ at the center without leaving out the other truths God teaches us (1 Corinthians 2:1–5).
Serve with Humility
The power belongs to Christ, not to the messenger. God works through ordinary people so that He receives the glory. You do not have to be rich, famous, or powerful to serve Him (1 Corinthians 1:26–29; 2 Corinthians 4:5–7).
Christian service is not about making our own name great. It is about making Jesus known. Do your part faithfully, and trust God with the results (1 Corinthians 3:6–7).
How Should We Respond?
- Believe the gospel. Trust Jesus for forgiveness and salvation (John 3:16; Acts 16:31)
- Keep the cross central. Rest your hope in what Jesus has done, not in your own achievements (Galatians 6:14).
- Protect unity. Choose kindness, patience, and forgiveness instead of pride and needless arguments (Colossians 3:12–14).
- Share the truth simply. Speak about Jesus with gentleness and love (1 Peter 3:15).
- Give God the glory. Serve faithfully, remembering that lasting results come from Him (1 Corinthians 3:6–7).
Final Thought
Christ crucified is the good news of God’s victory over sin and death. What the world calls foolish, God uses to save those who believe. Hold firmly to Christ, love His people, and let your life point others to Him.
“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)
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for dying for our sins. Help us trust You, keep the gospel first, and love one another. Teach us to speak Your truth clearly and serve with humble hearts. May our lives bring glory to You. Amen.
Minister A Francine Green, November 2026