“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 Corinthians 1:18, NKJV)

Judaism emphasized the significance of heavenly wisdom, which God revealed in his word. Sometimes this wisdom or personified (1:30). Given popular Greek respect for philosophy and *rhetoric, it is possible that that some educated members of the *church are especially interested in “wise speech.” Apollos may have fit their preferred speaking style better than Paul did (1:12).

Romans regarded crucifixion as a death appropriate for slaves while the Jews saw it as shameful (Deut. 21:23). Those considered as “saviors” were gods, kings, wealthy benefactors or miracle workers. Roman society was built around power and status. Power centered at the male head of the household, in wealthy and aristocratic families, and so…