What does 1 Corinthians 1:24 mean?

But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 1 Corinthians 1:24

Explanation

1 Corinthians 1:24 speaks of the nature of Jesus Christ as perceived by those who are “called.” The term “called” refers to individuals who have been invited and have accepted the Christian message. The Apostle Paul acknowledges that for those who believe, Christ embodies both the power and wisdom of God.

The phrase “both Jews and Greeks” signifies the inclusive nature of the Christian message, transcending cultural and ethnic barriers. “Jews” typically represents those who follow the religion of Judaism and who were looking for a Messiah to fulfill Old Testament prophecies. “Greeks,” in this text, broadly refers to Gentiles, or non-Jews, often associated with seeking wisdom and knowledge.

By declaring that Christ is the “power of God,” Paul is emphasizing Jesus’ divine authority and ability to save. Additionally, by referring to Christ as the “wisdom of God,” he highlights the manifestation of divine wisdom in Jesus’ teachings and actions. These declarations make a profound statement on the dual nature of Jesus as both a dynamic force and a source of divine insight.

Historical Context

The First Epistle to the Corinthians, typically dated to around 53-54 A.D., was written by the Apostle Paul to address issues in the church at Corinth. This was a city known for its diverse population, robust trade, and prevalence of different religions and philosophical teachings. The church itself was a diverse community, composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, which led to differing views on theological matters and a need for guidance from Paul.

At that time, Corinth was part of the Roman Empire, and its societal values often clashed with Christian teachings. Jews waited for a Messiah that would bring about political and religious restoration, while Greeks searched for truth through philosophy and human wisdom.

Theological Insights

The statement made in 1 Corinthians 1:24 has been interpreted in various ways theologically. From an orthodox Christian perspective, it affirms Christ’s divinity and the belief that true wisdom and power are found not in human institutions but in Jesus Christ.

Reformed theology would stress the notion of being “called,” which echoes the doctrine of predestination. The call is not just an external invitation but an efficacious call that results in faith and salvation for both Jew and Greek.

Comparatively, other Christian traditions, such as the Arminian view, would focus on the universality of the call of Christ and the free will of individuals in responding to God’s grace.

Practical Applications

This verse teaches that wisdom and power ought not to be sought in human achievements or philosophies but in Christ. It encourages believers to trust in the sufficiency of Christ for guidance and strength in daily life, embracing a worldview that centers around the divine wisdom and power manifested in Jesus. It calls for unity among believers of various backgrounds, focusing on the common faith in Christ, rather than on ethnic or cultural differences.

Cross-References

• Romans 1:16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.”
• Colossians 2:3: “In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
• John 1:12: “But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:”

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the term “power” (δύναμις, dynamis) often connotes strength, ability, or miraculous power. The word “wisdom” (σοφία, sophia) conveys a deep understanding, prudence, and insight into the true nature of things, usually associated with God’s character.

The phrase “called” (κλητοὶ, kletos) suggests a divine invitation to experience God’s redemption through Christ, implying that this calling is initiated by God rather than human will.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Christian view of Jesus as the embodiment of wisdom and power contrasts with various ancient mythologies where wisdom and power are often depicted in the form of multiple deities or heroes with exceptional characteristics. In Greek mythology, wisdom was symbolized by Athena and power by gods like Zeus. In the Jewish tradition, wisdom is personified in Proverbs as a woman who calls people to learn and follow the way of righteousness.

Scientific Perspectives

Science seeks to understand the natural world through empirical evidence and generally does not comment on theological assertions. Thus, interpretations of Christ as the embodiment of divine wisdom and power are outside the scope of scientific inquiry. However, the impact of religious belief on individuals and societies as a phenomenon may be studied by social scientists.

commentaries

Commentaries on this verse by various biblical scholars and theologians provide a wide range of insights:

• William Barclay highlights the contrast between the human expectation of a conquering Messiah and the Christian claim of a crucified Christ as the true power and wisdom of God.
• John Calvin discusses the special nature of spiritual understanding and its distinction from earthly wisdom, emphasizing that the gospel holds power for those who are called by God.
• Gordon D. Fee in his commentary on 1 Corinthians examines the ironic nature of the verse, where what seems weak and foolish (the crucifixion) is actually the power and wisdom of God.

These commentaries note the paradoxical nature of Paul’s claims and how they overturn human expectations, focusing on the profound and transformative understanding of Christ in Christian theology.