Contemplative Bible Reading

1 Corinthians 1:17 (New Living Translation)

For Christ didn’t send me to baptize, but to preach the Good News—and not with clever speech, for fear that the cross of Christ would lose its power.

This is Paul writing a letter to Christians in the town of Corinth. Paul tells them of his mission from Christ: preach the Good News.

And, Paul reminds them that he is a rather un-clever fellow. He doesn’t talk well; there is nothing “clever” about it. That way, when people gladly receive the Good News, no one will say, “Boy, that Paul is clever. Did you notice how well he packaged his message and…”

No. People will notice that this klutz told them something and, with no reasonable explanation, their hearts burned and their lives changed. Something out-of-the-ordinary, something super natural happened.

God changed their lives. Not some clever fellow.

Please God, always help me remember that You are the source.