For the 3rd Sunday after the Epiphany, the three readings are Isaiah 9:1-4; 1 Corinthians 1:10-18 and Matthew 4:12-25. Chosen to preach on is 1 Corinthians 1:18, “For 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.”
This is a passage that clearly distinguishes between the theologian of self-glory and the theologian of the cross. For the theologian of self-glory wants to preach Christ in such a way that he gets credit for the “wisdom of words” he uses or the captivating way in which he holds the attention of the hearers. No, Paul, says, such techniques actually make the cross of Christ of no effect. How so?
The message of the cross of Christ essentially is the Gospel understood as the gracious promises of God for you as they relate to the life, death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ. However, prior to hearing the Good News, one needs to understand why such news is necessary. That takes place by a preaching of the Law. And it is the Law that first and foremost is “foolishness to those who are perishing.” Why?
Preaching the Law does not occur by talking about the Law. It occurs by executing the Law. That means the speaker accuses the hearer(s) of not only being unable to meet the demands of God but such inability deserves eternal condemnation. All other religions of the world, which are law-oriented, do not have those two ingredients. For them the Law actually becomes a friend in giving instruction how to get right with a particular god or with yourself who is god.
While some may assume that Jesus was crucified because He was bringing the forgiveness of sins, that is only because forgiveness necessitated speaking accusation and condemnation even to those who were quite “religious” in their own minds. Executing the Law properly is similar to telling a stranger that you have good news for him and then give him a breath mint. Even if he needs it, his appreciation will be lukewarm to say the least.
While the Law is not the means of grace, the Gospel carries with it a power from the Holy Spirit which not only moves individuals to repent of their sins but to believe in the foolishness of the cross of Christ. In that way, the unbelievers who were once in darkness have now seen a great light and that light is none other than the crucified and resurrection Christ!
Name:Tom Baker