“Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks” (Acts 18:4).

Paul’s ministry in Corinth was a pattern for his ministry everywhere he went. He brought good news to both Jews and Gentiles. The revelation that made his message so central to our faith today is that salvation is for everyone. Jesus fulfilled all that the Old Testament pointed to with its promise of a Messiah. Paul explained that the Messiah was not just for Jews but was a promise for everyone.

What was Paul teaching in the synagogue week after week? We learn the content of Paul’s message from the letter he later wrote to these believers. He wrote, “And so it was with me, brothers and sisters. When I came to you, I did not come with eloquence or human wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:1-2).

There is still one message for Christians. It is the same for Jews and for Gentiles. It is “Jesus Christ and him crucified.” Paul also said in the same letter, “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). The message that changed the world, Jews and Gentiles alike, has changed my life and will change anyone’s. Jesus Christ and Him crucified is still the heart of our gospel.