Spiritually Speaking

For years, I was the family king when it came to Bible Trivia. We had a board game, complete with “difficult” and “easy” categories. I reigned undefeated through several tournaments and against all comers. Then my wife wanted to play. I don’t play Bible Trivia any more.

I bet the apostle Paul was really good at Bible Trivia. After all, he spent his early years studying the “Old” Testament under the tutelage of a man named Gamaliel – one of the most revered teachers and leaders of his day (still quoted by Jewish rabbis on a regular basis). Then, in his later years, Paul penned the majority of what we know as the “New” Testament. Personally, I have forgotten a lot of the great lessons I learned in college and seminary – and sometimes find it hard to recall what I wrote for last week’s article – but I’m going to guess Paul was sharper than all that.

Alongside being really “smart,” Paul was also aided by the direct mission and work of the Holy Spirit in his life. Miracle worker, personal pipeline to the wisdom of God, and courageous champion of the faith, Paul was certainly a repository of knowledge. But what did Paul find important? We certainly don’t find any evidence of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, Peter, Paul, James and Jude gathered around a table demonstrating their superior skills in scriptural recall.

Paul tells his Corinthian congregation, “I only want to talk about the anointed one and His crucifixion.” (I determined to know nothing among you, except Jesus Christ and Him crucified, 1 Cor. 2:2, NASB). What I know can’t save me. My record of astounding victories – and that one little bitty loss – won’t stem the tide. Only Jesus the Anointed One, and His sacrifice for me. See you Sunday!