1 Corinthians 1:22-24 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:… I. THE GREAT THEME OF APOSTOLIC PREACHING. The crucifixion of our Lord was the great centre of their preaching, but its range was much wider. They preached Christ in — 1. The Divinity of His person. 2. The perfection of His atonement. 3. The variety of His offices. 4. The blessings of His redemption. 5. The universality of His government. II. THE DIVERSITY OF THE EFFECTS WHICH ATTEND THE PUBLICATION OF THIS GOSPEL. 1. To the Jews it was a stumbling-block, and to the Greeks foolishness; "to them that are called" — (1) The wisdom of God. This wisdom is displayed in — (a) The wonderful method by which the difficulties were removed which stood in the way of the restoration of fallen man.(b) The perfect adaptation of the means which it. supplies for the attainment of human salvation. First, the sacrifice of Christ. Second, the dispensation of the Holy Spirit.(c) Its direct tendency to counteract one of the most evident manifestations of human depravity — viz., pride.(d) In the selection of the instruments who were ordained to propagate it.(e) The period appointed for its proclamation.(f) The facility of those terms on which the benefits are conferred. (2) The power of God is displayed in — (a) The various acts by which the stupendous scheme was accomplished.(b) The Divine influence which attended the publication of this doctrine.(c) The triumphant progress which the gospel has made against every opposition.(d) Its influence on man's present and eternal destinies. (J. Bowers.) Parallel Verses KJV: For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom: |
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