<p>1:24 <em>But to them that are called, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God- </em>It has been pointed out that if some NT passages are translated into Aramaic, the common language of the day in first century Israel, there would have been ample encouragement for memorization. Thus: We preach Christ crucified (<em>mishkal</em>), unto the Jews a stumblingblock (<em>mikshol</em>), and unto the Greeks foolishness (<em>sekel</em>), but unto them that are called... the power (<em>hishkeel</em>) of God and the wisdom (<em>sekel</em>) of God&quot; (1 Cor. 1:23,24). &quot;To them that are called&quot; raises concerns as to whether faith, therefore, is just a gift given to some. But the call is in the Gospel, and specifically in the outstretched arms of the crucified Christ. All who encounter it are called; but many refuse to respond. Likewise we noted on :21 that to know God is a gift; but it is available to all who encounter His Son.</p>