December 3, 2017

Insights on Today's Reading

1 Corinthians 15 - This is often referred to as The Resurrection Chapter of the Bible.  It's easily seen by the content on Christ's resurrection and the promise of our own.  Paul clearly presents the very basics of the Gospel message in verses 3,4:  Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again on the third day.  Paul then details those who witnessed His physical appearances after His resurrection.  Paul makes a clear claim on the necessity of God's grace in verse 10 where he emphasizes that any good he has done is because of God's grace.  Paul then gives a clear defense of the resurrection and making the claim that if Christ didn't rise then our faith and preaching are vain, verse 14.  He speaks of the event we call the Rapture in verses 51-53.  The Christian's hope is knowing Christ rose from the dead and we will too!

1 Corinthians 16 - Paul gives some final instructions to the Corinthians.  He hints that they met on the 1st day of the week, at least to bring their offerings, verse 2.  He speaks of continued opportunities for him to preach, verse 9, and emphasizes love to be behind all that the believers do, verse 14.