Intelligence

God want intelligent people?

That is an interesting question. Our first reaction is probably that intelligence would be a great asset to God and the work that he would want the church to do here on earth. People who have lots of knowledge will make very informed decisions that can help churches grow, help missions thrive, and help financial situations become stronger. The problem is that when people gain intelligence, they often lose trust.

When someone is extremely smart, they begin to believe that they can figure things out on their own and they don't need others to help them. If intelligent people don't feel the need for other people, they probably don't feel the need for God, either. Infants and very young children may not be rich in intelligence, but they have a lot of trust. This might be why Jesus said his disciples should become like little children Matthew 18:3.

Paul was writing this letter to people who lived in ancient Greece. One of the popular forms of entertainment was listening to people speak since they had no radios, televisions, or internet. Someone would get up and start speaking about something and others would gather around to listen. Those who were more intelligent (or able to sound more intelligent) gained more listeners and popularity. Many of the people reading Paul's letters to the Corinthians would be familiar with this, so these words might shock them.

1 Corinthians 1:18-19New International Version (NIV)

18 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. 19 For it is written:

“I will destroy the wisdom of the wise;
    the intelligence of the intelligent I will frustrate.”

God can use your intelligence, but be careful not to lose your trust in him. Being smart will not help you understand the cross and why Jesus died to save us, but trust will, and trust will allow God to do awesome things through you!