STUMBLING BLOCK

Many in search of truth stumble over the cross. Its apparent foolishness is shunned almost instantly. But the Bible knowingly declares: "For since in the wisdom of God the world through its wisdom did not know him, God was pleased through the foolishness of what was preached to save those who believe. Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles" (1 Co1:21-23). "But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of this world to shame the strong. He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things--and the things that are not--to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him" (1 Co 1:27-29).

The figures in black represent unbelievers. We are given a glimpse of their spiritual condition (Note that this was also the believer's condition prior to receiving the Lord). It reveals inward darkness and hardened hearts toward God (represented by stones). The jagged spears represent their hostility toward the gospel message, or simply their indifference which keeps the gospel at a safe distance so as not to disturb or confront their lifestyles. As a result of their rejection (refusing to repent and accept the grace of God) they have kept themselves in a state of condemnation. They stumble over the cross and into the fury of God's judgment, for "our God is a consuming fire" (He 12:29). They permanently nail shut the door to heaven (above left), a door which must be entered with deep humility.

"For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God" (1 Co 1:18).