Lord’s Library editors offer a 1 Corinthians 1:18 meaning with commentary and supporting Scriptures for your edification.
To obtain a 1 Corinthians 1:18 meaning, first see the verse: “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” This Scripture addresses a central truth of the Christian faith: that the message of salvation through the Cross of Jesus Christ is perceived differently by believers and unbelievers.
To those who reject God’s offer of salvation, the message of the cross appears absurd, but for those who have faith, it is the very demonstration of God’s power that brings eternal life. This contrast highlights the true work of grace received through faith, distinguishing those who accept God’s gift from those who rely on righteous works.
The phrase “the preaching of the cross” refers to the proclamation of the Gospel, which centers on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Cross is the pivotal event through which salvation was made possible, yet to the world, it seems illogical and offensive. Galatians 3:13 spells out the significance of Christ’s sacrifice: “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:”
Jesus bore the penalty for sin, a curse we could not escape by our own effort so that believers could be reconciled to God. This act of grace cannot be earned; it is given freely and accessed only through faith.
1 Corinthians 1:18 Meaning
The verse also highlights a distinction between “them that perish” and “us which are saved.” This division signifies two paths: rejection or acceptance of the Gospel. For those who do not believe, the message of the Cross is “foolishness,” as it undermines human pride. 1 Corinthians 2:14 explains: “But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.”
Without the Holy Spirit’s revelation, the Gospel cannot be valued. Faith opens our spiritual eyes to grasp the power and beauty of the Cross.
In contrast, “unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” The power of God displayed through the Cross demonstrates His ability to conquer sin and death, granting eternal life to those who believe, praise God. Romans 1:16 explains further: “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.”
The Gospel is effective and transformative, rescuing believers from the penalty of sin and renewing them by God’s grace. It is through the power of the Cross that believers experience salvation, a free gift of God.
This theme of salvation by grace through faith is further clarified in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
As such, one can see how salvation comes through trusting in Christ’s Finished Work on the Cross. This reliance on grace challenges the ego, as it requires humility to accept that our religious “works” cannot earn favor with God. The Cross, therefore, becomes both a stumbling block to human pride and the gateway to God’s grace.
Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 1:18 also remind believers of the importance of sharing the Gospel, even in the face of rejection. Just as the Apostle Paul faced scorn from those who regarded the cross as foolishness, Christians are called to stand firm in proclaiming salvation through Christ. Romans 10:14 asks: “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?”
Despite the world’s skepticism, believers are commissioned to share the message of the cross, for it alone brings salvation.
Lord's Library is a Christian resource hub. Our editors use a variety of internet research methods like search engines, audio and video, AI, consultations with ministry leaders in the field, and more. Lord's Library should never be a substitute for reading your Bible daily as the Scriptures are to be our final authority on all matters. Lord's Library participates in affiliate programs. We may make a small commission from products purchased through this resource.
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