HOW TO CHANGE THE WORLD

Introduction:

A. There is, in every generation, much desire for, and much talk about, changing the world for the better.

B. Christians, of all people, are certainly interested in changing the world (Matt. 28:18-20).

C. We need to make sure that our confidence is in that which can truly change the world--the preaching of the gospel of Christ.

D. Text: 1 Corinthians 1:18-30
 

We Must Keep Preaching the Word of the Cross
 

I. Preach the Word of the Cross Despite:

A. The scorn of the world (1:18)

B. The desire for something else (1:22-23)

1. People are telling us today that drama and "special music" are the way to reach people who want to be entertained.

2. In the first century, the Jews asked for a sign and the Greeks wanted the wisdom of men. Paul was not willing to offer either.

C. Your own limitations (2:5)

1. The power was not in the abilities of Paul, but in the gospel.

2. This is not to say that we should not work to increase our effectiveness in proclaiming the message; it is simply to emphasize that the power is not in man's ability or wisdom, but in the message preached.
 

II. Preach the Word of the Cross Because:

A. Of its essence (1:18)

1. Whereas 1st century culture saw the message of the cross as foolishness, to God it was the heart of the matter (cf. 1:18; 2:2)

B. Of its wisdom (1:21)

1. Men in the first century wanted to know the best of worldly wisdom.

2. The preaching of the cross brought one to the most supreme wisdom--the mind of God (1:21)

C. Of its power (1:24)

1. Only the "word of the cross" (ASV) brings the remission of sins. (Rom. 1:16-17).
 

III. Preach The Word of the Cross Instead of:

A. Politics

1. Legislation is not the answer to man's problems. No amount of legislation can change the heart of man.

2. Christianity is neither made nor destroyed on the basis of which political party is in power. We are not to rely upon such things.
 

B. Economics

1. The wealth of a nation or region is not its salvation (cf. Proverbs 14:34)

2. Israel had prospered, but they were doomed unless they heeded the prophet's message and turned back toward God - Amos 6:1ff

C. Technology

1. The humanist believes the accomplishments of man are his salvation.

2. Although we should use technology for every advantage of the spread of the gospel, the Christian realizes that the soul of man is not ultimately benefitted by these things in and of themselves (cf. Matt. 16:24ff).
 

Conclusion:

A. Many are wanting preaching that does little more than to "make them feel good about themselves."

B. While that is not the essence of gospel preaching, this lesson is designed to make you feel good about the power of preaching the gospel of Christ.

C. It is the power to change the world.