follyμωρία
mōria · Greek Noun
Literally "foolishness" or "absurdity," describing the gospel's message from the perspective of those who rely on human rationale and reject divine revelation.
perishingἀπόλλυμι
apollymi · Greek Verb (Participle)
Refers to those who have rejected or remain alienated from the saving grace of Christ, currently heading toward eternal separation from God.
being savedσῴζω
sōzō · Greek Verb (Participle)
The present and ongoing experience of believers who have been rescued from the penalty and power of sin through faith in Christ.
scribeγραμματεύς
grammateus · Greek Noun
A reference to the legal and religious experts or teachers of the law, historically those who studied and interpreted the Old Testament Scriptures.
debaterσυζητητής
syzētētēs · Greek Noun
A term for those who pride themselves on intellectual argument, debate, and philosophical inquiry.
ageαἰών
aiōn · Greek Noun
Refers to the present temporal world system characterized by values, philosophies, and attitudes that are opposed to God and His kingdom.
wisdomσοφία
sophia · Greek Noun
Divine insight, skill, or discernment. In a biblical context, it often refers to God’s sovereign plan or the practical application of divine truth, as opposed to mere human philosophy.
follyμωρία
mōria · Greek Noun
Literally 'foolishness' or 'absurdity.' In theology, it describes the gospel message which appears irrational or beneath the dignity of human intellectual systems, yet contains the power of God.
saveσῴζω
sōzō · Greek Verb
To deliver, rescue, or preserve from danger, destruction, or the penalty of sin. It is the central act of God in Christ to reconcile humanity to Himself.
believeπιστεύω
pisteuō · Greek Verb
A firm conviction, trust, or reliance upon God and His promises. It is the instrumental means by which a person receives the benefits of God’s grace.
signsσημεῖον
sēmeion · Greek Noun
A miraculous manifestation or divine authentication. In Scripture, these serve as evidence of God’s presence or authority, often sought by those requiring proof of a divine messenger.
ChristΧριστός
Christos · Greek Noun
The promised Messiah of Israel, the Anointed One of God, whose life, death, and resurrection constitute the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecy and the basis for redemption.
crucifiedσταυρόω
stauroō · Greek Verb/Participle
The historical act of Jesus being executed on a cross. Theologically, it signifies the atoning sacrifice that satisfies divine justice and bridges the gap between God and sinners.
stumbling blockσκάνδαλον
skandalon · Greek Noun
Anything that causes someone to stumble or fall into sin; an obstacle to belief. The cross is termed this because the idea of a suffering, dying Messiah offended Jewish expectations.
calledκλητός
klētos · Greek Adjective/Noun
Those who are chosen by God to receive His grace. It implies an effectual invitation from God that results in repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.
powerδύναμις
dynamis · Greek Noun
The innate ability, efficacy, or authority of God. It is often demonstrated in the gospel, which is the instrument through which God exerts His power to save sinners.
weaknessἀσθενής
asthenes · Greek Noun
A lack of vigor, strength, or might. In the context of the cross, it refers to the appearance of defenselessness and suffering that the world associates with failure, contrasting with God's actual strength.
callingκλῆσις
klēsis · Greek Noun
A divine summons or invitation, specifically the act of God in calling people into a relationship with Himself and into His kingdom. It involves both the invitation to salvation and the subsequent summons to a life of holiness and service.
wiseσοφός
sophos · Greek Adjective
Refers to human intelligence, skill, or worldly philosophy. In a biblical context, it often contrasts with the 'wisdom of God,' which is revealed through the cross.
powerfulδυνατός
dynatos · Greek Adjective
Possessing power, influence, or authority. In the New Testament, it often refers to those who rely on worldly strength or status rather than the power of God.
noble birthεὐγενής
eugenēs · Greek Adjective
Having high social status or aristocratic lineage. Biblically, this emphasizes that God’s redemptive work is not dependent on human hierarchy or social standing.
choseἐκλέγομαι
eklegomai · Greek Verb
The act of God selecting individuals or a people for a specific purpose or relationship, demonstrating His sovereign grace and initiative in salvation.
foolishμωρός
mōros · Greek Adjective
That which lacks understanding, discernment, or worldly approval. In God's economy, the 'foolish' things of the world are those which He uses to confound the pride of human systems.
weakἀσθενής
asthenēs · Greek Adjective
The state of being without strength or resources. In Scripture, human weakness is the arena where God’s power is most effectively displayed.
shameκαταισχύνω
kataischynō · Greek Verb
To humble or cause someone to feel disgrace. Biblically, God shames the proud by exalting those whom the world deems insignificant.
lowἀγενής
agenēs · Greek Adjective
Being of low status or common. It suggests things that are looked down upon or considered unimportant by the standards of the world.
despisedἐξουθενέω
exoutheneō · Greek Adjective/Participle
Regarded with contempt or as having no worth. It highlights the contrast between worldly evaluation and God’s sovereign valuation.
