What divides people when the gospel is preached?

As the Apostle Paul notes in 1 Corinthians 1:23, the response to the preaching of Christ crucified varies significantly among listeners. For the Jews, the gospel serves as a stumbling block due to their reliance on signs and self-righteousness. For the Greeks, it is deemed foolishness due to their pursuit of human wisdom. However, for those who are called, it reveals the power and wisdom of God. This division is not merely a social phenomenon but reflects the stark contrast between spiritual life and death. The gospel's truth can unearth hard hearts, separating those who draw near to God from those who reject His invitation, emphasizing the necessity of relying on divine grace over human merit.