No More Gimmicks

Week 4
Main Point and Overview:  

Over the years, many people have gotten “hung up” on “new ideas” from “relevant speakers.” Many times, they compare what they are hearing with the truth of Jesus’ Gospel. If the church is not careful, it can become “bored” with the “simplicity of the Gospel” looking for something that is more “new and fresh.” In the Apostle Paul’s day, he was surrounded by philosophers who made intellect, politics, and culture the driving forces of their lives. They lived with standards that were grounded in power and logic. As a result, they viewed the message of The Cross as either a threat to their ideas and principles or simply a foolish concept. They worshipped intellect, information, and experience. The American church often makes the same mistake, but in different ways. If the speaker is not bringing something “new and fresh,” we get bored. We see the Gospel as simply “asking Jesus into our hearts” instead of realizing that it is the source of our entire existence. Paul reminded the Corinthians that when he came to them, he did not try to impress them with persuasion or performance. He did not try to be someone special. He did not try to gain fame with them. Instead, he preached “Christ crucified,” and he did so in a very humble manner. With that said, while his message was “simple,” it was anything but weak or boring. In fact, his message was and is greater than any message that has ever been proclaimed in the history of the world. It is the Gospel that changes lives beyond our wildest imaginations. It is the Gospel that takes a pride-filled heart and turns it into a love-filled heart. It is the Gospel that gives joy, peace, contentment, etc. beyond what anyone could ever realize. Paul wanted the Corinthians to know that the source of these incredible spiritual blessings was the Holy Spirit. He is the One who teaches our hearts truth when the Word of God is opened. He is the One who helps us to understand our “new standing” in Christ. He is the One who removes the blinders off of our eyes giving us the understanding of how we should live. He is the One who makes known to us the priorities of our Lord Jesus Christ. So, what are you “chasing after” – empty wisdom from this culture or Godly wisdom from the Spirit? Let’s get past the stunts and the gimmicks!