Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley
Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.
Refocusing on the Power of the Gospel
1 Corinthians 1:18
“For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.”
Learn About It
The Corinthian church struggled with worldly wisdom. Corinth was a city filled with philosophers who prided themselves on deep thinking and persuasive speech. Many in the city viewed the message of the gospel—the idea that salvation comes through a crucified Savior—as foolishness.
Paul contrasts two groups: “them that perish” and “us which are saved.” The world sees the cross as a weak and illogical idea, something only the simpleminded would believe. To them, the thought that a man dying a criminal’s death could bring salvation is absurd. The Greeks sought wisdom through philosophy, and the Jews expected a powerful, conquering Messiah, not a suffering Servant.
Yet, Paul boldly declares that for those who believe, the cross is “the power of God.” The very thing the world calls weak is the means by which God brings the strongest display of His power—saving lost sinners. The gospel does not need embellishment, intellectual argument, or cultural adaptation. It stands as God’s power to redeem, transform, and give eternal life.
The question is not whether the gospel is powerful, but whether we recognize its power.
Apply It to Me
It’s easy to be influenced by the world’s thinking. Have you ever felt hesitant to share your faith because you feared someone would think it was foolish? Maybe you’ve met people who insist that Christianity is outdated or irrelevant. Paul reminds us that this reaction is nothing new. The world always sees the gospel as foolish—until the moment their hearts are changed by it.
Instead of being discouraged when people reject the gospel, we should take comfort in knowing that salvation is God’s work, not ours. Our responsibility is to preach the cross, not to make it acceptable to the world. We don’t need to dress up the gospel or make it more appealing; we simply need to proclaim it faithfully.
Think about how you view the gospel personally. Do you see it as the power of God in your life? Or has it become something you take for granted? When was the last time you reflected on how the gospel has changed you?
Talk to God About It
Father,
Thank You for the power of the gospel. I confess that at times I have been timid in sharing it, fearing the opinions of others. Help me to remember that the gospel is not something to be ashamed of but something to proclaim boldly. Give me the confidence to trust in Your power, not my own, when I share my faith. Let my life reflect the truth that Jesus Christ is the only way to salvation. Strengthen my faith in the message of the cross, and let me never take it for granted. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Act on It
This week, take a moment to share the gospel with one person—whether through a conversation, a text, or even a social media post. Don’t worry about their reaction; simply be faithful in proclaiming the message. Trust that God’s power is at work, even when you can’t see it.
John O’Malley
If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.