Lift High the Cross

Welcome to the summer weekly Bible study! Open with a few minutes of silent prayer to center yourself to become aware of God’s presence. Then dive in: watch or listen, read the scripture, add your discussion or thoughts, and live it out this week! Close your time in prayer.

Lift High the Cross

by Jeffrey C. Ilechie, Major: Biology/Pre-Med at Frostburg State University and Leader of  Salvation & Praise Bible Study Group

Read it:  Read each scripture twice, slowly.  After the second reading discuss the word or phrase that struck you or stood-out.  This is the Holy Spirit tugging at your heart to pay attention here.  What might the Holy Spirit be trying to say to you today through this verse, phrase or word?

Scripture:  1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5; Key verse: The preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.  1 Corinthians 1:18

In this concise account we find two responses to cross-preaching and two descriptions of those who thus respond.  First, there are those to whom the cross of Christ is foolishness. They see no need for anyone to die on their behalf or to take away their sins; the idea of a savior is to them folly. The suggestion of a Lord is repulsive.

This response can take the form of outright derision for Christ and his claims, or it can be (and most often is) displayed by an utter indifference to the person and work of Jesus Christ. Personal goals are pursued, pleasure is sought after, family and friends are delighted in - all without any regard to the claims of Christ upon their lives. These people, Paul tells us, are perishing.

On the other hand, there are those to whom the preaching of the cross comes with the decimating, life-altering, Christ-exalting power of God. The cross is suddenly seen to be the only hope for ruined and reckless sinners. Rather than being despicable, the cross is the source of their glorying and rejoicing.

Discuss it: 

To whom does the cross come with such irresistible force? To those who are saved. Not only will they be saved, but they are saved now.  Which response describes you?

Live it: 

This week as you move through the week consider the power of the cross and those you know who need to experience its power, then offer prays for them, and look for the opportunity to share the power you have experienced through the cross of Christ.