HIGHLIGHT
1 Corinthians 15:58 (ESV): 58 Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
EXPLAIN
After correcting abuses in worship in 1 Corinthians 12-14, Paul transitioned to address a fallacy in what some were teaching in Corinth Church: that there is no resurrection of the dead.
Paul forcefully shared the gospel, which is capped off by Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Then Paul engaged the people with logic, asking if there is no resurrection of the dead, then how could Christ have risen from the dead? And if Christ did not rise from the dead, then what basis do we have to believe the gospel?
Paul continued to speak of the resurrection, explaining that when we are raised we will have a new body, an immortal body. Thus, while death stings today, death will one day be swallowed up in victory.
Therefore, we must remain steadfast in the work of the Lord.
APPLY
This scripture is an encouragement to us, firstly, because we can know that we have hope of eternal life. Christ rose from the dead and by his power we will also be raised.
This scripture is also an encouragement simply from the standpoint that while in ourselves we might be discouraged at times, wondering if our attempts to serve God were bearing fruit, we can know that just as God had the power to raise Christ from the dead, God has power to use our feeble efforts for his glory.
RESPOND
Heavenly Father, help me to live faithfully for you, serving you with confidence knowing that you receive my “living sacrifice” as acceptable worship, using my life for your glory. Amen.