In 1 Corinthians chapter 2, Stephen emphasizes the importance of preaching Jesus Christ and Him crucified as the foundation of faith. He notes that Paul approached the Corinthians not with human wisdom or eloquence but in humility and reliance on God's power. The chapter highlights the contrast between worldly wisdom and God's hidden wisdom, which is revealed through the Spirit. Stephen explains that the Corinthian believers struggled with divisions and a lack of understanding of their purpose as the church, which is to glorify Christ. He stresses that true wisdom comes from God and is meant for the mature in faith, not just for intellectual understanding. The message of the cross, while seen as foolishness by the world, is the key to salvation and the foundation upon which deeper spiritual truths can be built. Stephen urges believers to move beyond the basics of faith and seek a deeper understanding of God's purpose, which is ultimately about glorifying Christ in the church. He concludes with a prayer for growth in grace and knowledge, encouraging believers to pursue maturity in their faith.
1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.