1 Corinthians 1:24 – “but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is a turning point in Paul’s argument. In the previous verses, Paul explained that many people reject the message of Jesus. The Jews expected a Messiah who would show His power through miracles and military strength, while the Greeks were searching for deep philosophical wisdom. But the cross—the very thing they rejected—turns out to be both the power and wisdom of God.

Paul now shifts the focus to those who believe. For people who are “called” by God, the message of Jesus isn’t foolish or offensive—it is the greatest truth of all. Christ isn’t just wise; He is wisdom itself. He isn’t just powerful; He is the power of God at work to save people.

This verse reminds us that salvation is not about human expectations or intellect. It’s about recognizing Jesus for who He really is—God’s perfect solution to the problem of sin.

Historical Context

Paul was writing to a diverse church in Corinth, made up of both Jews and Gentiles. These groups had very different ideas about religion and salvation:

• Jews believed in the power of God but expected Him to show it through miraculous signs and a victorious Messiah. When Jesus was crucified, it didn’t fit their understanding of how God should act.
• Greeks valued wisdom, philosophy, and intellectual debate. To them, the idea of a crucified Savior was ridiculous. How could a man dying on a cross be the solution to the world’s problems?

But Paul makes it clear: for those whom God has “called”—those who have responded to the gospel—Jesus is both power and wisdom. His death and resurrection prove God’s power to defeat sin and death, and His plan of salvation reveals the deepest wisdom.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several key truths:

1. God’s calling is essential for salvation. Not everyone sees Jesus as the power and wisdom of God—only those whom God has called. Salvation isn’t about intelligence or personal effort; it’s about God opening hearts to recognize the truth.
2. Jesus Christ embodies both power and wisdom. He is the fulfillment of everything both Jews and Greeks were searching for. True power isn’t found in military strength, and true wisdom isn’t found in human philosophy—it’s found in Christ.
3. Faith in Jesus redefines power and wisdom. The cross, which looked weak to the world, was actually the greatest act of power. The gospel, which seemed foolish, is actually the greatest display of wisdom.

Literary Analysis

Paul uses strong contrasts in this passage:

• “To those whom God has called” – This emphasizes that understanding the gospel isn’t about human effort, but about God’s initiative.
• “Both Jews and Greeks” – This highlights the universal nature of the gospel. It is for everyone, not just one nation or group of people.
• “Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God” – Paul flips the expectations of the Jews and Greeks. What they dismissed is actually what they were searching for all along.

This verse also builds on Paul’s earlier statement in 1 Corinthians 1:18, where he says that 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.”

Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 1:16 – “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” (The gospel is God’s power for all who believe.)
• Colossians 2:3 – “In [Christ] are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Jesus is the true source of wisdom.)
• John 6:44 – “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them.” (God’s calling is necessary for salvation.)
• Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.” (God’s wisdom is far greater than human wisdom.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds believers that the gospel doesn’t need to be changed or made more appealing to fit human expectations. Society still has its own ideas about power and wisdom:

• Some people think power is found in wealth, status, or success.
• Others believe wisdom comes from science, philosophy, or intellectual achievements.

But the truth remains the same—real power and wisdom are found in Jesus Christ. When we trust in Him, we have everything we need, no matter what the world says. This should give Christians confidence to share the gospel boldly, knowing that God will open people’s hearts to see the truth.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God could have chosen to save people in a way that made sense to human logic. He could have sent a mighty warrior or a genius philosopher. But instead, He chose to send His Son to die on a cross. Why? Because His love is not about impressing people—it’s about saving them.

• God’s love is powerful, breaking the chains of sin and death.
• God’s love is wise, providing a perfect solution to the problem of human sin.

By revealing His power and wisdom through Jesus, God makes salvation available to everyone, no matter their background or status.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse is all about Jesus. It tells us that He is the fulfillment of both power and wisdom:

• Power – Jesus defeated sin and death through His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). His power is not just physical strength, but the power to change hearts and give eternal life.
• Wisdom – Jesus is the perfect revelation of God’s plan. What seemed foolish (the cross) was actually the greatest act of wisdom, fulfilling the Old Testament prophecies and providing salvation for all who believe.

Paul reinforces this in Colossians 1:15-17, where he describes Jesus as the One who created all things and holds everything together. The wisdom of God is not just an idea—it is a person: Jesus Christ.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge the way you think about power and wisdom?
2. Why do you think so many people still struggle to accept Jesus as the true source of power and wisdom?
3. In what ways does our world today try to find power and wisdom apart from God?
4. How does knowing that Jesus is the power and wisdom of God give you confidence in your faith?
5. What are some ways you can share this truth with others who might see Christianity as foolish or weak?

This verse reminds us that the gospel is not about impressing the world—it’s about revealing the true power and wisdom of God through Jesus Christ. Those who believe don’t just follow a wise teacher or a powerful leader; they follow the very power and wisdom of God Himself.