What God Has Chosen 

Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31.

Memory Verse: "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Corinthians 12:9.

Weekly Reading: Proverbs 28-29.

Introduction: When wisdom cries out to men with a plea to turn from foolish living, its message is directed to the simple and the fool (Prov. 8:4,5). Who God chooses to call, in His infinite wisdom, are not those mighty in themselves, but those simple and low in station. Most kings associate themselves with the rich and noble, but the king of kings surrounds himself with the poor and meek. When children play games on teams, they often 'choose up' sides. The ones chosen first are usually the strongest and fastest players, and reserved until last are the undesirables. Each team ends up with some who can't run, or throw, or jump or hit. When you're the last to be picked, you just know no one wants you, and it hurts. Did you know Jesus was different? The people He chose were not the upper crust of society. He didn't call kings and champions to follow Him, but fishermen, tax collectors, herdsmen, and farmers. Once He went through Samaria that He might bring spiritual truth to an adulterous woman! He was openly accused of being a glutton and a winebibber because He ate with publicans and harlots. Born in a manger, his earthly father a simple carpenter, Jesus was raised in Nazareth. In the eyes of Jewish aristocracy, Jesus' family was among the lowest of the low in societal standing. He came not with flashy design nor a show of signs and wonders, but to minister life and truth to those who would receive it. He charged nothing for His miracle power, and from His disciples held no secrets. Jesus told them directly in John 15:16, "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you."

Questions For Study:

1. When are we the strongest? 2 Corinthians 12:10.

2. When is it alright to become like a fool? 1 Corinthians 4:10.

3. Why does God use foolish things to confound the wise? 1 Corinthians 1:25.

4. What can God do through using simple things? Hebrews 11:33,34.

5. What simple thing did Christ use to show God's power? 2 Corinthians 13:4.

6. What are some weak instruments God used to show His strength? Exodus 4:2; Judges 15:15; 1 Samuel 17:40; 1 Kings 17:12; Matthew 13:32; John 6:9.

7. Can God use us even though we are weak vessels? Psalm 8:2.

8. Can God give us strength even though we are weak vessels? Isaiah 40:29-31; 41:9,10.