“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.”
1 Corinthians 1:18 (NIV)
SEEK HIM: Devotion is Meeting with God in Our Own Lives!
Jesus’ cross is the most controversial point of history. To some, the cross seems like foolishness: why would God sacrifice His Son, what difference does it make, and why should anyone follow His example of sacrifice? These are important questions to be answered, for sure, but the mission and message of the cross is powerful and important for those of us who follow Jesus. As we reflect on 1 Corinthians 1:18 and begin March MISSION Madness, let’s “Seek Him” about how His cross impacts our lives and purpose. (Listen to this podcast introduction HERE as you begin!)
WHAT: What is God saying through this Scripture?
For those who don’t believe in Jesus, the message of the cross makes no sense. It seems absurd—even foolish, a waste of time and life. However, for those who are being saved, the cross is the most epic, life-changing, eternity-altering event in history. When we embrace it, we may appear foolish to the world, but we hold onto it because we choose to live for Someone and something far greater than ourselves. ~ How do the perspectives of believers and unbelievers differ? What message about the cross do you know? What is one thing has God done in you through His power?
WHY: Why does this Scripture matter?
The cross changes everything. It is the centerpiece of God’s redemption story, the place where His power is revealed through what the world calls weakness. What’s more, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is now in us. This power gives us boldness to share the message about Jesus, knowing it is not foolishness and it’s not our own power—it is the power of God accomplishing so much more than we can imagine. ~ Why do some people see the message about Jesus as foolish? How does God’s power give us confidence to live on mission for Him? Where can this happen in your life?
HOW: How does God want us to respond to this truth?
God wants the power of the cross to transform the way we live. When we embrace the message of the cross, we will walk in boldness, confidence, and hope—no matter the calling, no matter the cost. We will say: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…” (Romans 1:16, NIV). ~ What is your Jesus story about salvation? Are you willing to share this message of the cross with someone else? Where in your life do you need God’s power to live out your God-given mission today?
SPEAK HIM: Discipleship is Making God Known to Others!
The cross is not just a symbol to wear; it is the very power of God at work in us. We get to choose whether or not we’ll make the message of the cross our mission—boldly sharing and confidently living for Jesus. In the coming conversations, we’re going to look at different people who exemplified this. Read their stories, consider the truths from their lives, and ask God to fill you with His power to live for Him today.
Up Next:
The Story of Harriet Tubman
