«However, we speak wisdom among those who are mature, yet not the wisdom of this age, nor of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the ages for our glory» (l Corinthians 2:6, 7). 

AN OLDER MAN was traveling by train reading a book with a black cover. Next to him was a young college student reading a science book. When the college student realized that the older man’s book was the Bible, he interrupted him in his reading and said, «Do you still believe in that book of stories and fables?»

«Yes,» replied the older man, «but it is not a book of ßbles, it is the Word of God. Am I wrong?»

«Of course!» replied the young man. «You should study world history to discover that the French Revolution demonstrated the shortsightedness and folly of religion. Only people without any studies or culture can believe that God created the world in seven days. You should know about the great discoveries of our scientists.»

After a moment, the older man asked, «And what scientists say the Bible is a book of fables?»

Smiling, the young man said, «Since I’m getting off at the next station, I don’t have time to explain. But leave me your card with your address so I can mail you scientific material as soon as possible.»

The humble older man gave his card to the young man. When he read what the card said, he got off the train with his head down. On the card it read: «Dr. Louis Pasteur, Director. Pasteur Institute, Paris.»

This event, which dates back to 1892, is reflected in the autobiography of Dr. Pasteur, who stated that «a little bit of science distances one from God, but a lot of science brings you nearer to Him.» Paul says that it is not the wisdom of the world that we should value, but the wisdom that comes from God. «In the face of divine wisdom, Aristotle is no better off than Julius Caesar» (Trenchard). The wisdom of God contains God’s plan of salvation for all humanity, a mystery hidden in God’s grace which we can only know because it is revealed to us by the Holy Spirit.

Without God one can be wise according to the world, a scholar, and a great professional. But, to be wise according to God, we have to cry out for wisdom, be instructed in the Word, and, submissively and humbly, submit to the will of the Lord. 

«Our Father in heaven is the source of life, of wisdom, and of joy» 

(Steps to Christ, p. 9).