Mining the Scriptures: 1 Corinthians 1:16-21

The calling in Christ is described by Paul here. In calling, we must determine how we are called. It is through the gospel of Christ. God is not capricious, giving his grace to some, but denying it to others. The reason why so many who are humanly wise, mighty and noble are not of the elect is they choose not to be!  They trust and depend upon themselves rather than upon God (cf. Proverbs 16:18).

God champions the humble.  What He considers to be valuable differs greatly from the world’s definition of value.  God chooses that which indicates man’s dependence upon Him, rather than things which promote selfishness and arrogance.  Why?  “That no flesh should glory in His presence” (29).

Accepting God’s wisdom, His righteousness (cf. Romans 10:3), and the blessings that accrue from our relationship to Him, this is what God desires for us. Don’t glory in yourself (pride); instead, “He who glories, let him glory in the Lord” (31).

Author: Stan Cox

Minister, West Side church of Christ since August of 1989 ........ Editor of Watchman Magazine (1999-2018 Archives available online @ http://watchmanmag.com) ........ Writer, The Patternists: https://www.facebook.com/ThePatternists