1 Corinthians 15:12-19

Be Still: Lord, thank you for your presence with us now. Thank you for your Word that speaks truth and life. Draw us closer to your heart I pray. Amen.

Read: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19

And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. (v14)

Encounter: I’m one of those people who loves an interview. I enjoy thinking on the spot and trying to share the best version of myself. However, whilst trying to share the best version of myself, I have said things without thinking. Cue frantic internal processing: ‘Did I just say that? Do I know what I mean? What are the consequences of what I've just stated? 

Yesterday, we looked at how five hundred people saw the resurrected Jesus. Today, Paul continues to challenge those in the church in Corinth who were saying there was no resurrection of the dead. It’s fair to say he doesn’t mince his words. In essence, he says, 'Think of the consequences of what you’re saying, Corinthians. If the resurrection didn’t happen - then what are we doing? Our preaching is useless. Our faith is useless. There is no hope, and we’re still stuck in our selfish, sinful ways. If you actually believe what you are saying, everything changes (for the worse!)

I feel this passage is written not in anger or arrogance, but in deep compassion. Paul loved the people of Corinth; he'd spent significant time in that place and desired for people to know and see the truth. This was a moment for Paul to say: Listen to what you’re saying. Take a breath and think about the consequences of your unbelief. You're missing the point. Jesus died and rose again to set you free, to live with him his resurrected life.

Apply: There is wrestling going on here as people were trying to figure out who Jesus is. Wrestling is helpful, asking questions is good for our faith, and God can handle them. I encourage you today to name the questions you have and say: 'God, help me understand.'

Devote: Lord, thank you that you are bigger than our questions. Thank you for your grace. Forgive us for where we get it wrong. Help us to know you more fully.