After preaching in Athens, Paul came to Corinth and preached the gospel. The key point in the first two verses of 1 Corinthians 2 is that Paul was concerned about the truth of the gospel being openly proclaimed. Even today many people are concerned with making a great display of clever rhetoric while avoiding the gospel itself. The simple fact is that because of their honor/shame culture, both Romans and  Jews were offended by a crucified, Jewish Messiah. Nevertheless Paul resolved to focus on “Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” Sadly, many today are concerned about other matters and refuse to clearly proclaim Christ.

All of the application points in this sermon are taken from Philippians which was written from prison in Rome around 62 AD. Paul comforted the brethren in Philippi by telling them that everything that his circumstances turned out for the greater progress of the gospel. The progress of the gospel means to bring the gospel to more places. The “progressive” gospel preached by many today,  changes the gospel so that is not about Christ crucified as defined in the Bible. In our current situation, many are shaking, afraid, confused and looking for hope. Philippi was a city that took great pride in their Roman citizenship. Paul called them to citizenship in heaven which could only be gained by turning to Christ in faith. Those who live for the lusts of this fallen world face perdition. Those who turn to Christ, in faith, have eternal hope.