Exploring Biblical Wisdom - Words From the WiseSample

We conclude our brief survey of biblical wisdom by considering some of Paul’s statements on this theme.

In 1 Cor 1:24, Paul declares that Christ himself is “the power of God and the wisdom of God.” From an early age, ‘Jesus grew in wisdom’ as part of his human development (Luke 2:52). This was not just the result of a sound upbringing or the study of scripture. It came directly from the Father and through the Holy Spirit. Isaiah foretold that ‘The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him – the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord’ (Isa 11:2). Here we see how Jesus was equipped to be a wisdom teacher, but he was much more than this. He was the Wisdom of God not just by function but by his very nature and person. He taught wisdom because of who he was.

After declaring Christ as the wisdom of God, Paul adds in 1 Cor 1:30 that, for those who are in Christ Jesus, he has ‘become for us wisdom from God’. Christ is always the wisdom of God, but he becomes especially so for us once we are in relationship with him. Then his wisdom can flow into our lives. In Christ are ‘hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge’ (Col 2:3), but these treasures are available to all who receive Christ.

In 1 Cor 12:1, Paul says he does not want us to be ignorant regarding spiritual gifts, one of which is a ‘word’ or ‘message of wisdom’ (v8). This is something given by God to you to speak to others. You may find yourself saying something you didn’t expect or know about in advance but which builds up other believers, helps them solve a problem or unblock a situation in their life.

Wisdom is a precious gift to be used in the service of others but is not itself a specific ministry. Rather, wisdom is given to underpin all other gifts and ministries. We all need it, whatever our gift or ministry, because, as we often see, any of these can be exercised unwisely.

Paul told the Ephesians that he keeps asking God to give them the Spirit of wisdom and revelation (Eph 1:17). Paul sees this as urgent and essential. In particular, he keeps asking as he knows that such wisdom is not a one-off gift but something that is needed on a regular basis.

So, too, we should keep on asking God for his precious gift of wisdom.