1 Corinthians 1:18-19 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved, it is the power of God. For it is written: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise; the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

Commentary:

While it is God’s desire that none should perish (2 Peter 3:9), those that do not glorify God or give thanks to God are turned over by God to themselves (Romans 1:21-25). There will be times that we share the Gospel with clarity and hope only to find its message totally rejected. God only asks each of us to share the message of hope. The Gospel’s acceptance and the resulting life of accountability are between each person and God. Do not be surprised by rejection. The final authority and judgment belong God (Romans 8:28-30).

 

12 Corinthians 4:4 The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.

Commentary:

The god of this age is Satan. Without the protection, we are subject to the power of evil (see Ephesians 6:10-18 for our protection against Satan).