Our Scripture reading today is 1 Corinthian 1:23-24, "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God."
The message the Apostle Paul preached over 2,000 years ago is the same message we should be preaching today. The Gospel of Jesus Christ continues to be the power and wisdom of God.
When we take a little closer look at the two word message there is an obvious oxymoron. The meaning of "Christ" is Messiah, anointed one, power and splendor and the meaning of "crucified" is weakness, defeat and humiliation. On one hand these words do not go together, but on the other hand they MUST go together. The all powerful, holy Son of God became sin for us. This meant He would pay the ultimate sacrifice. Romans 5:10, "For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life."
As in Paul's day, not everyone will receive and believe the message of Christ crucified. It is not our responsibility to make people believe. Our duty is to continue to proclaim the message. Our duty is to continue to deliver the truth! The crucified Saviour is alive. Mark 16:6, "And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him."