http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20corinthians%2015-16&version=ESV
The Resurrection is the cornerstone of Christianity and is the hope of our salvation. Paul clearly outlines the consequences of our view of the resurrection. If it didn't happen, then we are miserably poor deluded souls. But praise God, the resurrection is real. Jesus, fully God and fully man, lived a sinless life and then paid the ultimate price to redeem us from the prison of eternal damnation, hellfire, gnashing teeth, and brimstone. But the resurrection is not just for when we die. We need to live every minute in light of how we will spend eternity.
Christ is the ultimate victor and He reigns! As we ponder the majesty of the miracle of Christmas and Christ's birth, we must also keep in mind the Savior's sacrifice at the culmination of His earthly existence.
Paul wraps up his letter with some bold words of encouragement and admonishment. We would do well to heed his words.
1 Corinthians 15:58 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.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14 Be watchful,stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong. Let all that you do be done in love.
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Great to be in Corinthians!
ReplyDeleteMy favorite portions of this powerful book are:
1)No temptation has overtaken you but as is common to man; and GOD is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will provide the way of escape also, that you may be able to endure it.
2)**In the King James version, replace "love" with "charity"---->1Corinthians 11-13--->When I was a child, I used to speak as a child, think as a child, reason as a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things. 12 For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I shall know fully just as I also have been fully known. 13 But now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love-->(charity).
WOW!!
**All Christians know the power and importance of faith, hope, love/charity. For Paul to say that charity is even more important than faith is astonishing to me.
**I want to challenge any and all who are involved with this Bible study to take up their cross, both financially and in altruistic action, to help people, charities, and organizations. Send them your money, your heart, your time, and get your hands dirty...
Peace and love!!!