Scripture to Read: 1 Corinthians 15:29–34
God had Paul deal with a somewhat mysterious subject, for we read the following in 1 Corinthians 15:29–34, “Otherwise, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why then are they baptized for them? 30 Why are we also in danger every hour? 31 I affirm, brethren, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 32 If from human motives I fought with wild beasts at Ephesus, what does it profit me? If the dead are not raised, let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die. 33 Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’ 34 Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.” From this passage and from the study of the Corinthian culture, lost people were being baptized on behalf of those who had died. God did not approve; He simply had Paul ask this to make the point that even the lost people in Corinth believed in a resurrection. The Mormons practice a baptism for the dead, for they have taken this Scripture out of context. God then had Paul make the point that if a resurrection did not exist, why would Paul risk his life by sharing the gospel? God had Paul remind the Christians in Corinth that he chose to die daily and proclaim Christ and His resurrection no matter the cost. Then, God had Paul challenge the believers to stop sinning and proclaim Christ because many were still lost.
Challenge & Application
What must you die to daily so that you live for Christ and proclaim Him and His resurrection to the lost around you?
How has God challenged you this week through His Word?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!