Amidst his exhortation about the resurrection of christ, Paul now addresses the result for those who denied the truth about this divine miracle, that both Jesus and all those who believe in Him and repent of their sins will be resurrected and made anew by God almighty, fulfilling a promise found in the gospel.
“29 Otherwise, what will they do who are baptized for the dead, if the dead do not rise at all? Why then are they baptized for the dead?” (1 Corinthians 15:29)
Here Paul cites that it would be foolish to be baptized, to be raised from the dead if Jesus did not Himself rise from the dead on the third day, as promised and foretold.
Because some believers in Corinth had been baptized on behalf of people who had died before or without baptism, the apostle asks rhetorically why the living went through this ritual if it were not the undeniable truth.
“30 And why do we stand in jeopardy every hour? 31 I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.” (1 Corinthians 15:30-31)
Offering himself as a living sacrifice to God, Paul questions the Corinthians as to the motivation behind such an offering if there is no resurrection. Why would anyone put himself out to be persecuted and possibly killed for their faith in Jesus Christ? Because Paul knows the answer to be true, that resurrection is indeed the fulfillment of God’s promise to His children, Paul described his mission as one which could bring death any day.
“32 If, in the manner of men, I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantage is it to me? If the dead do not rise, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!” (1 Corinthians 15:32)
The apostle once again poses a rhetorical question to which he knows the answer full well. That all sacrifices made in the name of Jesus will be rewarded in due time, and that His resurrection and that of all believers is forthcoming as promised.
“33 Do not be deceived: “Evil company corrupts good habits.” 34 Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.” (1 Corinthians 15:33-24)
Paul now calls on believers to yoke themselves with other Christians who live according to the gospel which he preaches led by the Holy Spirit. Children of God should carefully choose the people they surround themselves with making certain they are exposed to the truth and to righteousness rather than soak in deception, in sin.
Anyone who denies the resurrection of Christ and His disciples does not believe the gospel therefore, invites God’s wrath for his life. It is wise then to believe and share the truth about resurrection, a promise made by God to those who believe. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
