The Power of the Cross

I Cor. 1:17
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.

There was a problem with unity in the Corinthian church. People were taking sides and quarreling over which preacher they liked or who had baptized them. They were creating dissension over an appeal that had nothing to do with the message but instead with popularity and prestige. To reveal the problem, Paul simply asked a question. Was Christ divided, or were Paul or Apollos crucified for you? Obviously, the answer to both questions was no. Hopefully, the people would see the logic behind his simple question. Then Paul stated his reason for preaching the gospel as God had called him. It was not to be with man's words of eloquence, words that could create dissension, words that would empty the cross of its power. God chose preaching as a means to spread the gospel, a means that the world deemed foolish, and He chose that preaching to be based only on Jesus, His cross, and His gospel. It was never to be a popularity contest [gimmicks, contests, mega cathedrals, prosperity and worldly splendor], but a means of salvation. For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. Sadly, as in the Corinthians's day men still are using the church as a means to gain prestige, position, power, and prosperity. I wonder does all this still rob the cross of its power?

Father,
Help me to share Your gospel and the power of the cross simply so that its power can draw people to salvation.
In Jesus name,
Amen