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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Corinthians 1:18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/1-18.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/16/46_1Co_01_18.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Corinthians 1:18 - The Message of the Cross" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_corinthians/1-18.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_corinthians/1-18.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/">1 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/1_corinthians/1.htm">Chapter 1</a> > Verse 18</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad18.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-17.htm" title="1 Corinthians 1:17">◄</a> 1 Corinthians 1:18 <a href="/1_corinthians/1-19.htm" title="1 Corinthians 1:19">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/1.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/1.htm">New International Version</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/1.htm">New Living Translation</a> The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/1.htm">English Standard Version</a> 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. <a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those indeed perishing, but to us being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/1.htm">King James Bible</a> For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nkjv/1_corinthians/1.htm">New King James Version</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nasb_/1_corinthians/1.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/1.htm">NASB 1995</a> For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nasb77/1_corinthians/1.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing foolishness, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/lsb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. <a href="/amp/1_corinthians/1.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness [absurd and illogical] to those who are perishing and spiritually dead [because they reject it], but to us who are being saved [by God’s grace] it is [the manifestation of] the power of God. <a href="/csb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but it is the power of God to us who are being saved. <a href="/hcsb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but it is God&#8217s power to us who are being saved. <a href="/asv/1_corinthians/1.htm">American Standard Version</a> For the word of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us who are saved it is the power of God. <a href="/cev/1_corinthians/1.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> The message about the cross doesn't make any sense to lost people. But for those of us who are being saved, it is God's power at work. <a href="/erv/1_corinthians/1.htm">English Revised Version</a> For the word of the cross is to them that are perishing foolishness; but unto us which are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/gwt/1_corinthians/1.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> The message about the cross is nonsense to those who are being destroyed, but it is God's power to us who are being saved. <a href="/gnt/1_corinthians/1.htm">Good News Translation</a> For the message about Christ's death on the cross is nonsense to those who are being lost; but for us who are being saved it is God's power. <a href="/isv/1_corinthians/1.htm">International Standard Version</a> For the message about the cross is nonsense to those who are being destroyed, but it is God's power to us who are being saved. <a href="/net/1_corinthians/1.htm">NET Bible</a> For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nheb/1_corinthians/1.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/wbt/1_corinthians/1.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish, foolishness; but to us who are saved, it is the power of God. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For the Message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are on the way to perdition, but it is the power of God to those whom He is saving.<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/web/1_corinthians/1.htm">World English Bible</a> For the word of the cross is foolishness to those who are dying, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_corinthians/1.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for the word of the Cross to those indeed perishing is foolishness, and to us—those being saved—it is the power of God, <a href="/blb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For the message of the cross is foolishness to those indeed perishing, but to us being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/ylt/1_corinthians/1.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for the word of the cross to those indeed perishing is foolishness, and to us -- those being saved -- it is the power of God, <a href="/slt/1_corinthians/1.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For truly the word of the cross to them perishing is foolishness; but to us saved it is the power of God.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_corinthians/1.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For the word of the cross, to them indeed that perish, is foolishness; but to them that are saved, that is, to us, it is the power of God. <a href="/cpdv/1_corinthians/1.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For the Word of the Cross is certainly foolishness to those who are perishing. But to those who have been saved, that is, to us, it is the power of God. <a href="/nabre/1_corinthians/1.htm">New American Bible</a> The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. <a href="/nrsvce/1_corinthians/1.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_corinthians/1.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For the preaching of the cross to those who have gone astray is foolishness; but to us who are saved it is the power of God. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_corinthians/1.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> The message of the crucifixion is insanity to the lost, but to those of us who have life it is the power of God.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_corinthians/1.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For the preaching of the cross is to those who perish, foolishness; but to us who are saved, it is the power of God. <a href="/godbey/1_corinthians/1.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For the word of the cross is foolishness indeed to those who are lost; but to those who are saved it is the power of God. <a href="/haweis/1_corinthians/1.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For the discourse, the subject of which is the cross, is indeed to those who perish, folly; but to us who are saved it is the power of God. <a href="/mace/1_corinthians/1.htm">Mace New Testament</a> For tho' the doctrine of the cross seems folly to those that perish: yet we that are to be saved, do feel its energy is divine. <a href="/wey/1_corinthians/1.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For the Message of the Cross is foolishness to those who are on the way to perdition, but it is the power of God to those whom He is saving. <a href="/worrell/1_corinthians/1.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For the word of the cross is to those who are perishing, foolishness; but to those who are being saved, it is the power of God. <a href="/worsley/1_corinthians/1.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For the doctrine of the cross is to them, that perish, foolishness: but to us, who are saved, it is the power of God. <a href="/parallel/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/g-wZWoK_LZU?start=148" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_corinthians/1.htm">The Message of the Cross</a> 17For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, not with words of wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power. 18<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">For</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: Ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logos (N-NMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">message</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ho (Art-NMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of the</a> <a href="/greek/4716.htm" title="4716: staurou (N-GMS) -- A cross. ">cross</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">is</a> <a href="/greek/3472.htm" title="3472: mōria (N-NFS) -- Folly, absurdity, foolishness. From moros; silliness, i.e. Absurdity.">foolishness</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tois (Art-DMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">to those who</a> <a href="/greek/3303.htm" title="3303: men (Conj) -- A primary particle; properly, indicative of affirmation or concession; usually followed by a contrasted clause with de."></a> <a href="/greek/622.htm" title="622: apollymenois (V-PPM/P-DMP) -- From apo and the base of olethros; to destroy fully, literally or figuratively.">are perishing,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">but</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmin (PPro-D1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">to us who</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tois (Art-DMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/4982.htm" title="4982: sōzomenois (V-PPM/P-DMP) -- To save, heal, preserve, rescue. From a primary sos; to save, i.e. Deliver or protect.">are being saved</a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: estin (V-PIA-3S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">it is</a> <a href="/greek/1411.htm" title="1411: dynamis (N-NFS) -- From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power.">the power</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God.</a> 19For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Romans 1:16</a> I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek. <a href="/isaiah/29-14.htm">Isaiah 29:14</a> Therefore I will again confound these people with wonder upon wonder. The wisdom of the wise will vanish, and the intelligence of the intelligent will be hidden.” <a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">2 Corinthians 2:15-16</a> For we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. / To the one we are an odor that brings death, to the other a fragrance that brings life. And who is qualified for such a task? <a href="/isaiah/53-1.htm">Isaiah 53:1</a> Who has believed our message? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed? <a href="/galatians/6-14.htm">Galatians 6:14</a> But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. <a href="/john/3-18.htm">John 3:18-21</a> Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe has already been condemned, because he has not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. / And this is the verdict: The Light has come into the world, but men loved the darkness rather than the Light because their deeds were evil. / Everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come into the Light for fear that his deeds will be exposed. ... <a href="/1_peter/2-7.htm">1 Peter 2:7-8</a> To you who believe, then, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” / and, “A stone of stumbling and a rock of offense.” They stumble because they disobey the word—and to this they were appointed. <a href="/acts/17-32.htm">Acts 17:32</a> When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to mock him, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this topic.” <a href="/isaiah/55-8.htm">Isaiah 55:8-9</a> “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the LORD. / “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so My ways are higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts. <a href="/philippians/3-18.htm">Philippians 3:18-19</a> For as I have often told you before, and now say again even with tears: Many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. / Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and their glory is in their shame. Their minds are set on earthly things. <a href="/matthew/11-25.htm">Matthew 11:25</a> At that time Jesus declared, “I praise You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because You have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. <a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12</a> For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it pierces even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow. It judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart. <a href="/isaiah/44-24.htm">Isaiah 44:24-25</a> Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer who formed you from the womb: “I am the LORD, who has made all things, who alone stretched out the heavens, who by Myself spread out the earth, / who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who confounds the wise and turns their knowledge into nonsense, <a href="/colossians/2-14.htm">Colossians 2:14-15</a> having canceled the debt ascribed to us in the decrees that stood against us. He took it away, nailing it to the cross! / And having disarmed the powers and authorities, He made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross. <a href="/jeremiah/8-9.htm">Jeremiah 8:9</a> The wise will be put to shame; they will be dismayed and trapped. Since they have rejected the word of the LORD, what wisdom do they really have?</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but to us which are saved it is the power of God.the preaching.<a href="/1_corinthians/1-23.htm">1 Corinthians 1:23,24</a> But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness; … <a href="/1_corinthians/2-2.htm">1 Corinthians 2:2</a> For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.<a href="/galatians/6-12.htm">Galatians 6:12-14</a> As many as desire to make a fair shew in the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only lest they should suffer persecution for the cross of Christ… to.<a href="/acts/13-41.htm">Acts 13:41</a> Behold, ye despisers, and wonder, and perish: for I work a work in your days, a work which ye shall in no wise believe, though a man declare it unto you.<a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">2 Corinthians 2:15,16</a> For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: … <a href="/2_corinthians/4-3.htm">2 Corinthians 4:3</a> But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:foolishness.<a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">1 Corinthians 1:21,23,25</a> For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe… <a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">1 Corinthians 2:14</a> 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.<a href="/1_corinthians/3-19.htm">1 Corinthians 3:19</a> For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.unto.<a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a> But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.<a href="/1_corinthians/15-2.htm">1 Corinthians 15:2</a> By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain.<a href="/psalms/110-2.htm">Psalm 110:2,3</a> The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/1_corinthians/1-17.htm">Cross</a> <a href="/romans/14-15.htm">Destruction</a> <a href="/romans/14-9.htm">Dying</a> <a href="/romans/1-21.htm">Folly</a> <a href="/romans/10-19.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/mark/7-22.htm">Foolishness</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-1.htm">God's</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-12.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/romans/15-16.htm">Message</a> <a href="/john/17-12.htm">Perdition</a> <a href="/romans/2-12.htm">Perish</a> <a href="/john/6-27.htm">Perishing</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-17.htm">Power</a> <a href="/romans/16-25.htm">Preaching</a> <a href="/romans/13-11.htm">Salvation</a> <a href="/romans/11-26.htm">Saved</a> <a href="/acts/27-43.htm">Saving</a> <a href="/acts/25-27.htm">Seems</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-5.htm">Way</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-17.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_corinthians/1-23.htm">Cross</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/5-5.htm">Destruction</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-10.htm">Dying</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">Folly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-20.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-20.htm">Foolishness</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">God's</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-22.htm">Indeed</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">Message</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-3.htm">Perdition</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-13.htm">Perish</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">Perishing</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">Power</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">Preaching</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">Salvation</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-15.htm">Saved</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">Saving</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-25.htm">Seems</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-11.htm">Way</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-19.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">1 Corinthians 1</div>1. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-1.htm">After his salutation and thanksgiving for the Corinthians,</a> 10. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-10.htm">Paul exhorts them to unity,</a> 12. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-12.htm">and reproves their dissensions.</a> 18. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">God destroys the wisdom of the wise,</a> 21. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-21.htm">by the foolishness of preaching;</a> 26. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-26.htm">and calls not the wise, mighty, and noble,</a> 28. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-28.htm">but the foolish, weak, and men of no account.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/1.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_corinthians/1.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>For the message of the cross The "message of the cross" refers to the core of the Christian gospel: the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the Greco-Roman world, crucifixion was a shameful and brutal form of execution reserved for the worst criminals. The idea that salvation could come through such a means was countercultural and offensive to many. This message is central to Christian doctrine, emphasizing that through Christ's sacrifice, humanity can be reconciled to God. The cross symbolizes both the suffering and the victory of Jesus, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies such as <a href="/isaiah/53.htm">Isaiah 53</a>, which speaks of the suffering servant.is foolishness to those who are perishing To the unbelieving world, the concept of salvation through a crucified Messiah seemed absurd and irrational. The Greek word for "foolishness" is "moria," from which the English word "moron" is derived, indicating something perceived as nonsensical. Those "who are perishing" refers to individuals who reject the gospel and are on a path to spiritual destruction. This dichotomy between the wisdom of the world and the wisdom of God is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, highlighting the spiritual blindness of those who rely solely on human wisdom (<a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">1 Corinthians 2:14</a>).but to us who are being saved The phrase "being saved" indicates an ongoing process of salvation. In Christian theology, salvation is often understood in three tenses: past (justification), present (sanctification), and future (glorification). Believers are justified by faith, are being sanctified through the work of the Holy Spirit, and will be glorified in eternity. This process underscores the transformative power of the gospel in the lives of believers, as they are continually conformed to the image of Christ (<a href="/romans/8-29.htm">Romans 8:29</a>).it is the power of God The "power of God" refers to the divine ability to bring about salvation through the cross. This power is not just a concept but is actively at work in the lives of believers, enabling them to overcome sin and live in righteousness. The cross, which appears as weakness to the world, is the ultimate demonstration of God's power and wisdom (<a href="/1_corinthians/1-24.htm">1 Corinthians 1:24</a>). This power is also evident in the resurrection of Jesus, which is the cornerstone of Christian faith and the assurance of eternal life for believers (<a href="/1_corinthians/15-14.htm">1 Corinthians 15:14-17</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 1 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth, a city known for its diversity and moral challenges. 2. <a href="/topical/t/the_church_in_corinth.htm">The Church in Corinth</a> A Christian community in a cosmopolitan city, struggling with divisions and the influence of secular philosophies. 3. <a href="/topical/t/the_cross.htm">The Cross</a> Central to Christian faith, representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and the means of salvation. 4. <a href="/topical/t/those_who_are_perishing.htm">Those Who Are Perishing</a> Refers to individuals who reject the gospel and are on a path to spiritual destruction. 5. <a href="/topical/t/those_who_are_being_saved.htm">Those Who Are Being Saved</a> Believers who accept the gospel and experience the transformative power of God.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_paradox_of_the_cross.htm">The Paradox of the Cross</a> The cross is a symbol of shame and defeat to the world but represents victory and salvation to believers. <a href="/topical/t/the_power_of_god.htm">The Power of God</a> The message of the cross is not just a historical event but an ongoing source of divine power for transformation and salvation. <a href="/topical/w/worldly_wisdom_vs._divine_wisdom.htm">Worldly Wisdom vs. Divine Wisdom</a> Human wisdom often fails to comprehend God's ways, which are revealed through the seemingly foolish message of the cross. <a href="/topical/i/identity_in_christ.htm">Identity in Christ</a> Believers find their identity and purpose in the power of the cross, which shapes their worldview and actions. <a href="/topical/e/evangelism_and_witness.htm">Evangelism and Witness</a> Understanding the cross as the power of God encourages believers to share the gospel boldly, despite it being perceived as foolishness by some.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_corinthians_1.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Corinthians 1</a> <a href="/q/how_is_the_cross_convincing_without_proof.htm">(1 Corinthians 1:18) How can the message of the cross be convincing without clear historical or scientific proof of a literal resurrection? </a> <a href="/q/what_does_'cross_is_foolishness'_mean.htm">What does "The Message of the Cross is Foolishness" mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_''foolishness_of_the_message''.htm">What does "Foolishness of the Message" mean?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_anthropopathism_mean.htm">What does 'Foolishness of the Message' mean?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_corinthians/1.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(18) For the preaching.--In the original the contrast comes out more strongly between this and the previous statement, the same phrase being repeated, thus, "For the word of the cross," in contrast to "the wisdom of more words" above. This is the word of real power.Them that perish.--Better, those that are perishing, and us who are being saved, the former referring to those who have not received the gospel, and the latter to those who have (<a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm" title="For we are to God a sweet smell of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:">2Corinthians 2:15</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/4-3.htm" title="But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:">2Corinthians 4:3</a>).The power of God.--The cross and all that it represents is the greatest display of the power of God (<a href="/acts/8-10.htm" title="To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God.">Acts 8:10</a>).<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_corinthians/1.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verses 18-25. - The nature of true Christian preaching. Verse 18. - For the preaching of the cross; rather, the word of the cross. To them that are perishing; rather, to the perishing; to all those who are now walking in the paths that lead to destruction (<a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">2 Corinthians 2:15</a>). To them it was foolishness, because it requires spiritual discernment (<a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">1 Corinthians 2:14</a>); and, on the other hand, human wisdom is foolishness with God (<a href="/1_corinthians/3-19.htm">1 Corinthians 3:19</a>). Foolishness. It shows the heroic character of the faith of St. Paul that he deliberately preached the doctrine of the cross because he felt that therein lay the conversion and salvation of the world, although he was well aware that he could preach no truth so certain at first to revolt the unregenerate hearts of his hearers. To the Jews "the cross" was the tree of shame and horror; and a crucified person was "accursed of God" (<a href="/deuteronomy/21-23.htm">Deuteronomy 21:23</a>; <a href="/galatians/3-13.htm">Galatians 3:13</a>). To the Greeks the cross was the gibbet of a slave's infamy and a murderer's punishment. There was not a single association connected with it except those of shame and agony. The thought of "a crucified Messiah" seemed to the Jews a revolting folly; the worship of a crucified malefactor seemed to the Greeks "an execrable superstition" (Tacitus, 'Ann.,' 15:44; Pliny, 'Epp.' 10:97); yet so little did St. Paul seek for popularity or immediate success, that this was the very doctrine which he put in the forefront, even at a city so refined and so voluptuous as Corinth. And the result proved his inspired wisdom. That very cross became the recognized badge of Christianity, and when three centuries had elapsed it was woven in gold upon the banners and set in jewels on the diadems of the Roman empire. For had not Christ prophesied, And I, if I be lifted up, will draw all men unto me"? Unto us which are being saved; who are on the way of salvation. The same present participle is used in <a href="/luke/13-23.htm">Luke 13:23</a>; <a href="/acts/2-47.htm">Acts 2:47</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/2-15.htm">2 Corinthians 2:15</a>; <a href="/revelation/21-24.htm">Revelation 21:24</a>. It is the power of God. Because the cross is at the heart of that gospel which is "the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth" (<a href="/romans/1-16.htm">Romans 1:16</a>; <a href="/romans/8-3.htm">Romans 8:3</a>), though many were tempted to be ashamed of it. It could never be a carnal weapon of warfare, and yet was mighty for every purpose (<a href="/2_corinthians/10-4.htm">2 Corinthians 10:4, 5</a>). <a href="/commentaries/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>For γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. the Ὁ (Ho) Article - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. message λόγος (logos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. of the τοῦ (tou) Article - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. cross σταυροῦ (staurou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4716.htm">Strong's 4716: </a> A cross. is ἐστίν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. foolishness μωρία (mōria) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3472.htm">Strong's 3472: </a> Folly, absurdity, foolishness. From moros; silliness, i.e. Absurdity. to those who τοῖς (tois) Article - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. are perishing, ἀπολλυμένοις (apollymenois) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_622.htm">Strong's 622: </a> From apo and the base of olethros; to destroy fully, literally or figuratively. but δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. to us who ἡμῖν (hēmin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. are being saved σῳζομένοις (sōzomenois) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4982.htm">Strong's 4982: </a> To save, heal, preserve, rescue. From a primary sos; to save, i.e. Deliver or protect. it is ἐστιν (estin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. [the] power δύναμις (dynamis) Noun - Nominative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1411.htm">Strong's 1411: </a> From dunamai; force; specially, miraculous power. of God. Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">NT Letters: 1 Corinthians 1:18 For the word of the cross (1 Cor. 1C iC 1Cor i cor icor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-17.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Corinthians 1:17"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 1:17" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-19.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Corinthians 1:19"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Corinthians 1:19" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>