Word, Gospel, Power

“I am eager to preach the gospel to you also… For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.” Romans 1:15-16

“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.

“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…

“For Jews demand signs and Greeks seek wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.”

“I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.”

“For the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power.” 1 Corinthians 1:17-18,22-24; 2:2-5; 4:20

The word of God descended unexpectedly and forcefully on Paul. Disarming his ferocious, godless intentions, it transformed him from fiercest foe to most devoted servant. Knowing firsthand the power of the gospel, as God’s spokesman he was passionately obliged by its force to preach it wherever and to whomever he could. The Spirit of God who now held sway in his heart worked through his limits and flesh to demonstrate and articulate divine wisdom. (Acts 9:1-9,20-22)

As Christians called to ministry, we can be propelled by competition or drive, or slogged down by fear and insecurity. We manipulate, justify, explain away, or make excuses, all residue from too much self-centered thinking. When we are captivated as Paul was, the driving force of life and breath, voice and plans, will be the gospel of Christ proclaimed, exemplified, and known. With varied gifts, opportunities, and resources, this passion will compel us forward to influence God’s kingdom.

How eager are we to preach? If other activities have robbed our affections, would we pray for the Lord to reprioritize our desires, then act in faith that the doing will elicit delight? Whom has the Lord placed before us- at home, work, or in our community- who needs fresh wisdom for these uncertain, trying times? What are some creative ways we can arrange conversation with them?

How do our everyday words in interactions with those around us exhibit God’s power? The truth in itself wields authority to destroy strongholds, refute arguments, and convict of sin. When accompanied by a humble spirit and the force of love and compassion, and adorned with the character and countenance of Christ, it surely will make a mark. What do our daily doings indicate that we have decided to know and make known among others? How does this measure against God’s intent? (2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 4:15; 2 Timothy 3:16; Hebrews 4:12)

Father, may the gospel You’ve worked so powerfully in me manifest itself in and through my words and deeds, to Your glory.