01-15-2026 PART 3: Faith Rooted in God’s Power, Not Human Persuasion

Section 1

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 2 confront a persistent misunderstanding within the church: that effectiveness in ministry is tied to eloquence, intelligence, or entertainment value. He makes it unmistakably clear that his preaching did not rely on persuasive human wisdom, but on a demonstration of the Spirit’s power. The purpose of gathering as believers is not to be impressed or entertained, but to draw nearer to God, to one another, and to extend hope to those who are wounded or far from the Lord. Human skill can win arguments, but it cannot transform hearts. Transformation belongs to God alone, and it comes when truth is spoken and the Holy Spirit brings it to life.

Section 2

Paul’s approach exposes the emptiness of worldly wisdom when measured against eternal reality. Human ideas shift, contradict themselves, and often promote confusion rather than truth, while God’s wisdom remains constant and life-giving. The greatest miracle is not physical healing alone, but salvation itself, where a spiritually dead person is made alive through faith in Jesus Christ. Angels rejoice not merely over signs and wonders, but over sinners who repent. This underscores that the Spirit’s power is most clearly displayed when lives are redeemed, faith is awakened, and hearts are turned toward God. Salvation is not a human achievement, but a divine gift, initiated and sustained by God.

Section 3

The ultimate goal of Spirit-empowered preaching is that faith would rest on God’s power, not on human ability or reasoning. God uses flawed vessels, ordinary people, and even unexpected means to accomplish His purposes, ensuring that no one boasts in themselves. The Holy Spirit makes Scripture alive, applying truth uniquely to each heart and season, reminding believers that growth is a continual process. Dependence on God does not diminish the value of people, but rightly orders trust and confidence. Faith anchored in God’s power produces endurance, humility, and unity, enabling believers to support one another and walk together in the truth that God alone brings life, clarity, and hope.