Christ and Him Crucified

Daily Devotional – Tuesday, November 1, 2022

For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.

1 Corinthians 2:2 (NKJV)

Some Christians preachers are known for their charismatic sermons. Their speeches inspire millions, including non-Christians. Listeners hang on the words of such preachers. The words of these men and women of God are remembered and quoted many years later.

Not with Excellence of Speech or of Wisdom

Paul, too, was a renowned preacher. He traversed Judea and beyond, reaching Gentiles with the gospel. He was well-versed in scripture and could argue with the best philosophers of his day. His writings were profound and impeccable. Few preachers could measure up to Paul’s stature.

However, unlike the charismatic preachers of our day, Paul changed tact when he interacted with the people of Corinth. The apostle wrote, “And I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God.” (1 Corinthians 2:1).

Not with Persuasive Words of Human

He added, “And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom.” (Verse 4). If Paul was a modern preacher, many Christians would not have listened to him because his message was devoid of eloquence and humour.

Paul chose to keep his message to the Corinthians simple. He emphasized the fundamental message of Christianity, saying, “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Corinthians 2:2).

Proclaim Christ Your Own Way

Irrespective of how charismatic the preacher is or what Christians denomination he subscribes to, the basic message of salvation remains the same – Christ and Him crucified. The death of Jesus reminds us of His immense love and sacrifice for sinners.

If you are not a gifted preacher, do not shy away from spreading the gospel. You might not recite Bible verses exactly as they are.  It is possible you are handicapped in one way or the other. Take heart. You only need to know and preach one message – Christ and Him crucified.

Christ and Him Crucified

Jesus says, “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” (John 12:32). Your work is to lift Jesus up. He will do the rest. Lift Him up through your encouraging words, kindness and genuine testimony.

Uplift Jesus in your workplace, school home, church and everywhere you go. If people do not know you for eloquent sermons, let them know you for ‘eloquence’ in character. Let your mantra be Christ and Him crucified.

Prayer

Dear Father. show me how to preach Christ and Him crucified in whichever manner I can.