My Manna

” For Christ did not send me to baptize but to preach the gospel, and not with words of eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power” (1 Corinthians 1:17).

There is explosive power in the message of the gospel-
– because Paul says, “It it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16).

The word “power” that Paul used in this verse originates from the Greek word, dunamis.

It is the same word Jesus used in Acts 1:8:
” ‘ But you will receive power (dunamis) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses ‘” (Act 1:8).

The English words “dynamic,” “dynamo,” and “dynamite” also have been translated from this word, dunamis.

Paul was saying that the very message of the gospel is the dynamite of God.
It is the dynamic of God.
It is explosive evangel!

We often underestimate-
– the raw power of the gospel in reaching even the most hardened heart.

We think we need to add to it, gloss it over, or even complicate it.

But there is distinct power in the simple message of the life, words, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Don’t underestimate its appeal.
Don’t be ashamed of its simplicity.
Don’t add to it or take away from it.

Just proclaim it.
And then stand back and watch what God will do.

As Paul said, “For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).

The gospel is a simple message, one that we in the church have heard time and time again.

But we should never underestimate its power.

(PA)