How do we know the offense of the gospel is true?

The offense of the gospel is articulated throughout Scripture, particularly in its confrontation with human pride. As Paul stated, 'the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing' (1 Corinthians 1:18), indicating that the gospel undermines our natural inclination to value human achievement and self-worth. Jesus Himself said in John 15:18-21 that the world would hate His followers because they first hated Him. This offense serves a purpose: to reveal the truth that salvation is by grace alone and not through human effort. It is a discomforting but necessary truth that leads to deeper understanding and comfort for true believers, as they recognize their total dependence on Christ for salvation.