1 Corinthians 1:18-19, Wisdom of the Wise

1 Corinthians 1:18-19 For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. 19 For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent.

William MacDonald observed well, “The Greeks were lovers of wisdom (the literal meaning of the word “philosophers”). But there was nothing in the gospel message to appeal to their pride of knowledge. To those who are being saved, the gospel is the power of God. They hear the message, they accept it by faith, and the miracle of regeneration takes place in their lives.”

Indeed, as the psalmist declared in Psalm 94:11 “The LORD knoweth the thoughts of man, that they are vanity.”

The Apostle Paul was quoting Scripture taken from  Isaiah 29:14 “Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, even a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid.” He was alluding to the truth that God shall intervene by His power to save man by confounding their “wisdom”.

May God give us a heart that is willing to submit to His truth for our present and eternal blessings. Amen.