Finding Focus

With so many worthwhile things competing for your time, how do you know what actually matters?

“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).

As he told the Corinthians, Paul was not focused on anything other than to “preach the gospel.” The Greek word he used is the root for our English word “evangelism.” This was Paul’s driving passion.

He knew that other issues were important, but they weren’t his primary concern. He didn’t want to become involved in anything that might become a distraction. He specifically wanted to be sure that the cross of Christ would not lose its power in their lives. He knew that its message could be neutralized, falsified, or made empty.

Our faith can become weakened when we focus on words and worldly wisdom instead of the “cross of Christ.” The message of the cross can seem foolish. We can be tempted to resort to clever words that make more sense to our carnal minds. However, Paul said we need to focus on the simplicity of the cross, no matter how it might sound or how others might react to it.

It’s easy to be distracted by worthwhile—seeming activities that have little eternal impact. We can crave the wisdom of the world or seek to gain influence through education or achievement. But fulfilling God’s call and purpose for our lives is the only thing that will really matter when we stand before Him.

Make sure you’re following God’s priorities for your life. Focus on the Gospel and the cross of Christ. Devote yourself to serving Him.

Reflection Question: What is the simple message of the cross of Christ?

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “eloquent wisdom” mean in 1 Corinthians 1:17?

Paul refers to the polished rhetorical style prized by Greek orators of his day. He deliberately avoided it so that people’s faith would rest on the substance of the cross rather than on his own persuasive skill (1 Corinthians 2:1–5).

Why would clever words “empty” the cross of its power?

If the message becomes about the messenger’s skill rather than what Christ accomplished, listeners can respond to the presentation rather than to God—Paul saw that shift as robbing the cross of its actual‚ Spirit-driven effect.