Definition: For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this incredibly complex verse from 1 Corinthians 1:21. It’s a really rich and layered message about how God works with us. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: Think of it like this: God is really interested in people, but He doesn't just want to talk to them. He wants to reach everyone , even those who don’t understand Him yet. Here’s a breakdown: “For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God…” – This part means that for a long time, people on Earth didn't know about God. They were focused on their own ideas, concerns, and ways of life, without really understanding the true, powerful God who exists. It’s like they were wandering around with their heads in the clouds. “it pleased God…” – This is a key part! God pleased (wanted to do something good) to happen. He wanted to make a difference. “…by the foolishness of preaching…” – This means that God didn’t just tell people about Him. Instead, He used preaching – speaking and sharing His word – to reach them. Preaching is like spreading a message, and it's how God showed His love and truth. “…to save them that believe.” - This is the big takeaway. The foolishness of preaching (the way He spoke to them) saved those who actually believed in Him. “Believe” means to accept God as real, to trust him, and to turn away from evil. So, putting it all together: God wants to share His love and truth with everyone, but He uses preaching – speaking and sharing the good news of Himself – to draw people in to know Him. It’s a way of reaching out to those who are open to receive that message, even if they don't understand it yet. What does this mean for us? It means God is always working to connect with us, even when we can’t see where He's going. It encourages us to: Listen to the Word of God: Pay attention to what God is saying. Share the Good News: Don't be afraid to share your faith and belief with others. Believe: Trust that God cares for you and wants a relationship with you, even if you don’t understand everything He does. Important Note: This verse speaks about God’s plan over time. It doesn't mean we can know everything God is doing in the future. It means that through preaching, He consistently draws people to Him. --- To help me tailor this explanation further, could you tell me: What specifically are you interested in learning about this verse? (e.g., its historical context, its meaning for believers?)