Foolishness. I don’t even like to say the word let along seek to apply it to my life, my words, and the Bible. Paul repeatedly points out that the Gospel is foolish from the world’s perspective. In this world everyone eventually looses because we all die. The Gospel says that dying to self in this life, even if it brings an “early “ physical death, is how we win. And I have always agreed with that principle when it comes to death. But what about foolish talking? I haven’t been keen on that. Yet Paul indicates that when we share the impact of God’s grace in our lives we will sound foolish; even to ourselves. I struggle with saying things that sound foolishly out of place. But isn’t that the whole purpose of being “salt” and “light”? Our words should cause us to stand out and be noticed. Not because of fantastic accomplishments like leaping talk buildings in a single bound, but because of our irresponsible statements based on faith. I think Paul is driving at the point that seeking to be a noticeable Christian will require serious words and actions on our part that will cause others to mockingly laugh at us. I don’t mind making people laugh at my own expense, but only with hyperbole. I know that I’m not comfortable with a mocking laughter when I am being serious in getting a point across to them. I think God is using Paul to tell me to quit taking myself so seriously and be more serious about speaking the foolishness of the Gospel.
It took me about 6 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart
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