SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22
1 Corinthians 15:19-34
Galatians 2:20

“I die daily.”

MOTIVATED BY THE RESURRECTION

What did Paul mean when he said that there were those who were “baptized for the dead” (1 Cor 15:29)? 1 Corinthians 15:30 gives us the clue that these who were baptised for the dead were also willing to constantly jeopardise their lives for the sake of the gospel. Thus, it is the opinion of this writer that the expression “baptized for the dead” refers to those who believed and were baptised on the account of the testimonies of those who had died and were martyred for the faith. If Christ be not risen, then such martyrdom would be foolhardy and vanity. But Christ is now risen from the dead, and thus we know that those who died in the faith will one day rise from the dead. The deaths of these saints are not in vain.

It was Paul’s assurance in the gospel that caused him to say, “I die daily” (1 Cor 15:31). Paul was most willing to follow and serve Christ even if it meant he had to give up his life. For Paul knew that if he were to be absent from the body, he would be present with the Lord (2 Cor 5:8). No one would be able to take away his hope. Thus, Paul would make sure that he would make every minute of his life count for Christ. “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Ps 90:12).

Sadly, because of the denial of the resurrection, some of the Corinthian Christians lapsed into an epicurean lifestyle. Their motto was “eat and drink; for to morrow we die” (1 Cor 15:32). This is the logical conclusion of one who has no sure hope. Thus, Paul warned them not to be taken in by such an ungodly attitude. “Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners” (1 Cor 15:33). Instead, they should wake up and pursue after righteousness, and stop their sinful and carnal ways (1 Cor 15:34).

Are you making your life count for Christ, or are you whiling your life away? Awake to the reality of the resurrection!

THOUGHT: Read and memorise Galatians 2:20.
PRAYER: Father, I am willing to die daily!