1 Corinthians 1:24 Meaning: Christ, Our Power and Wisdom

The word called (klētois) is the hinge of this verse. In Paul’s letters it is a title for believers, people who have not only heard an invitation but have responded to it. The Greek word suggests a personal summons, like being invited to a feast and actually showing up. This is not a vague general call. It is the call that changes everything.

Then Paul piles up two more words: power (dunamis) and wisdom (sophia). Dunamis is not raw force; it is effective, life-changing power, the kind that raised Jesus from the dead and now works in ordinary people. Sophia is not book-learning; it is the deep intelligence of God, the plan that looked like nonsense to the world but turned out to be the most brilliant thing ever done. And Paul does not say Christ gives power and wisdom. He says Christ is them. You do not get power from Jesus. You get Jesus, and He is your power and wisdom.

Across Christian traditions, this verse has been read as the great reversal of human values. Reformed commentators like Calvin stress that only the elect, those enlightened by God, can see past the offense of the cross to find salvation in Christ. Wesleyan interpreters such as Adam Clarke emphasize that the called are those who obey the invitation and experience the gospel’s power to convert and enlighten. Anglican writers like the Cambridge Bible note that Christ’s power enables believers to break free from sin, and His wisdom reveals heavenly truths hidden from the wise of this world. Baptist commentator Gill points out that Christ’s power is seen even in His weakness on the cross, where He defeated sin and death. All agree: what looks like failure to outsiders is, to those who answer the call, the very thing they need most.

A common misreading is that “called” means everyone who hears the gospel preached. But in Paul’s letters, the called are those who have accepted the invitation and believed, what some traditions call the effectual call. He uses the same word for people who are “saints” (1:2). In fact, “to those who are called” describes a group defined by their response, not just their exposure. The verse is not saying that Christ is power and wisdom for everyone who hears, but for everyone who receives Him.

This week, you will likely face a situation where following Jesus looks foolish. Maybe you choose honesty when a lie would be easier, or you forgive when resentment feels more powerful. In that moment, the world whispers that you are weak or naive. But Paul’s words are for you: Christ is your power and your wisdom. You do not need to manufacture strength or figure everything out. You need to stay close to the One who already is both. When you feel the pressure to prove yourself, pause and ask: “Am I looking for power and wisdom somewhere else?” Then let Christ be enough.