Why You Are Wise - 1 Corinthians 2:6-9

In his sermon on 1 Corinthians 2:6-9, Jeffrey Johnson explores the concept of wisdom, distinguishing it sharply from mere education or intellectual achievement. He begins by challenging the conventional understanding of wisdom, asserting that it's not just about acquiring knowledge, including biblical knowledge. He points out that many people who are well-versed in theology, orthodoxy, and scripture may still lack a true understanding of God. This distinction sets the stage for his deeper exploration of what constitutes true wisdom according to the Christian faith.Johnson elaborates that true wisdom involves the application of knowledge in a way that fundamentally changes a person's life. It's not enough to simply know about God or the teachings of the Bible; this knowledge must lead to a fear of God, repentance, and a pursuit of God that is heartfelt. He stresses that wisdom is the result of knowledge being applied by the Holy Spirit, transforming one's understanding and behavior.The sermon then delves into the context of the Corinthians, who, according to Johnson, had a skewed perception of wisdom. They favored eloquent preaching and were drawn to the worldly wisdom of the age, leading to divisions among them. Johnson uses this to illustrate how their valuation of worldly wisdom over spiritual wisdom led to a devaluation of Paul's preaching, which focused on Christ crucified rather than worldly eloquence or philosophy.Johnson emphasizes that true wisdom, or God's wisdom, is not of this world and cannot be gained through worldly means like education or studying philosophy. He asserts that God's wisdom is a divine gift, and understanding it requires a level of spiritual maturity that goes beyond intellectual capacity. He states that this wisdom is not just for the intellectually elite but is accessible to all, regardless of their intellectual abilities, as long as they seek God and are open to His teachings.Throughout the sermon, Johnson identifies four specific groups to whom God grants wisdom:The Spiritually Mature: Johnson argues that spiritual maturity is crucial for receiving and comprehending deeper wisdom. This maturity comes from applying the word of God in one's life, leading to discernment and a transformation that moves beyond fleshly desires.Those Enlightened by God: Wisdom is also given to those whom God chooses to enlighten. This enlightenment is not a result of human effort or intellect but a divine act of revelation.The Elect: Johnson touches on the concept of predestination, suggesting that those chosen by God (the elect) are granted wisdom. This wisdom is not based on their merits but is a part of God's sovereign plan.Those Who Love Him: Finally, Johnson concludes that God imparts wisdom to those who love Him. This love is not just an emotional response but a deep-seated commitment that seeks to understand and apply God's word.In conclusion, Johnson's sermon on 1 Corinthians 2:6-9 offers a comprehensive view of Christian wisdom, emphasizing its divine origin, its distinction from worldly knowledge, and the transformative power it holds for those who truly seek and love God. He underscores the idea that wisdom is not just intellectual understanding but a spiritual journey that changes the heart and life of a believer.