December 23, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 13

¹ Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

² And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

³ And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing.

⁴ Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,

⁵ Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;

⁶ Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;

⁷ Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

⁸ Charity never faileth: but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away.

⁹ For we know in part, and we prophesy in part.

¹⁰ But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.

¹¹ When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.

¹² For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

¹³ And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

1 Corinthians Chapter 13, also known as the “Song of Love,” is one of the most well-known and moving passages in the Bible. The Apostle Paul describes the central role of love in the life of a Christian. He emphasizes that all spiritual gifts, impressive abilities, or heroic deeds are meaningless without love. This chapter serves as a lasting call to understand love not just as a feeling, but as an attitude and way of life that should shape all aspects of our faith.

Commentary

The Importance of Love (Verses 1–3):
Paul begins with a powerful message: even the most impressive spiritual gifts—such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, knowledge, or faith that can move mountains—are worthless without love. Even acts of sacrifice, if not motivated by love, have no genuine value. These statements highlight that love is the standard by which all actions are measured.

The Attributes of Love (Verses 4–7):
In these verses, Paul describes love in its practical application. Love is patient, kind, humble, and seeks the good of others. It is not governed by negative emotions such as envy, pride, or anger. Instead, it is characterized by joy in the truth, perseverance, trust, and hope. Paul paints a picture of love that is not merely a feeling but an active decision, even in difficult circumstances.

The Imperishability of Love (Verses 8–13):
Paul emphasizes that love is eternal, while all other spiritual gifts and abilities are temporary. Prophecy, speaking in tongues, and knowledge will cease because they are partial—temporary means to reveal God’s truth. But when the perfect comes, love remains, which never fails. In the end, Paul highlights that faith, hope, and love are enduring virtues, with love being the greatest of them all. It is the cornerstone of the Christian life.

Summary

1 Corinthians 13 demonstrates that love is not merely a virtue but the foundation of the Christian faith. Without love, even the most impressive deeds and gifts lose their value. Love is patient, selfless, and true; it is imperishable and will endure into eternity. This chapter urges us to be motivated by love in everything we do, as it is the greatest of all virtues. The message of the “Song of Love” serves as a timeless reminder that our lives are empty without love—and that true love comes from God Himself.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 82—“Why Weepest Thou?”
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:1, 5-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 82: “Why Are You Weeping?” describes the wonderful moment of Jesus’ resurrection and the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Lord. Based on the Gospels, it is shown how the sorrow and despair of the believers are transformed into joy and hope as they realize that Jesus is alive. This chapter emphasizes the central significance of the resurrection for the Christian faith and invites believers to embrace the hope of eternal life.

Commentary

The Women at the Empty Tomb:
The women who had accompanied Jesus up to His death came with spices to honor His body, unaware that the promise of His resurrection had already been fulfilled. Their deep sorrow was transformed into awe when they saw the angel who proclaimed the good news: “He is risen.” Their spices became unnecessary because the Savior was alive.

Mary Magdalene and Her Encounter with Jesus:
Mary Magdalene, whose grief was particularly great, experienced a personal encounter with the risen Jesus. Her inability to recognize Him immediately reflects the despair that kept her from the reality of His resurrection. However, Jesus’ loving “Mary” opened her eyes. This scene illustrates how Jesus reveals Himself uniquely to each individual.

The Disciples’ Doubts:
The disciples initially reacted with disbelief to the women’s message. Their doubts and fears prevented them from accepting the truth of the resurrection. Nevertheless, Jesus did not reject them but revealed Himself to strengthen their faith and restore their hope. Especially Peter received personal assurance of forgiveness through the mention of his name.

The Message of Hope:
Jesus’ words “Why are you weeping?” and the angels’ exhortation to spread the good news are still relevant today. The resurrection is the foundation of our hope and joy because it demonstrates that death has been overcome. The call to shift our focus from sorrow to the living Christ is an invitation to live in faith and hope.

Summary

Chapter 82 depicts the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Jesus and highlights the transformative power of the resurrection. It shows how sorrow, doubt, and despair can be transformed into joy, hope, and faith. The central message is clear: Jesus is alive, and through His resurrection, He grants all believers the hope of eternal life. This chapter calls believers to grow in faith and joyfully share the message of Jesus’ victory over death.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/23-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-13-believe-his-prophets/

13.1 Meeting in Galilee
A New Beginning in Grace and Humility

Read John 21:1–19. What decisive facts are revealed here, especially about God’s grace – and human humility?

The event in Galilee, as described in John 21:1–19, reveals crucial lessons about God’s grace and the necessary human humility. Particularly noteworthy is the way Jesus restores Peter in a gentle yet firm manner and entrusts him with his calling as a leader. This scene not only demonstrates the depth of Jesus’ forgiveness but also how humility becomes the foundation for renewed service.

Peter’s response to Jesus’ questions – “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you” – reflects an attitude marked by self-reflection and inner repentance. His decision not to place himself at the center but to fully rely on Jesus’ knowledge and judgment shows how much he has learned from his mistakes. This is a moving example of how God’s grace not only overcomes failure but also leads to a stronger, more humble faith.

Peter’s transition from denying Jesus three times before the crucifixion to becoming a confessing disciple and shepherd is a powerful reminder that true restoration is only possible through humility and God’s immeasurable grace. This encounter in Galilee also underscores the transformative power of forgiveness: it turns a failing person into a key leader of the early church.

Ultimately, this story teaches us that it is not perfection that qualifies us for God’s service, but the willingness to admit our weaknesses, rely on His grace, and place Him at the center.

Why is humility very important for anyone who wants to know God? What could any of us be proud of in the face of the cross?

Humility is essential for anyone who wants to know God because it is the prerequisite for recognizing our dependence on Him. Those who are proud tend to center their own abilities and merits, which hinders true understanding of God. Humility means acknowledging our limits, faults, and our need for God’s grace. It opens our hearts to the truth that we cannot achieve salvation or true knowledge on our own.

The Bible makes it clear that God is gracious to the humble but resists the proud (James 4:6). Humility allows us to recognize God’s greatness and to lay ourselves in His hands. It is the foundation for accepting Jesus as our Savior and Lord because only in humility can we admit that we need salvation and that God alone is the source of life.

What could any of us be proud of in the face of the cross?

In the face of the cross, all human pride is nullified. The cross reminds us that we are all sinners and that we can do nothing to save ourselves. It is the ultimate demonstration of God’s love and grace—not because of our merits but despite our guilt.

As Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.” The cross shows that our salvation is solely God’s work, not ours. Pride is entirely out of place in light of Christ’s sacrifice, as there is nothing we could contribute to our redemption.

The cross teaches us that our only glory lies in being in Jesus Christ, who died for us (Galatians 6:14). This realization brings us back to humility, which is at the heart of a true relationship with God.

The story of the encounter in Galilee and the lessons about grace and humility have profound implications for our daily lives and our faith. It shows how crucial these principles are for our relationship with God and our interactions with others:

1. Humility in Our Daily Lives

   • Self-awareness and Repentance: Like Peter, we often recognize our weaknesses only in moments of crisis. The ability to admit mistakes is not only the first step toward inner healing but also a prerequisite for healthy relationships.

   • Dependence on God: In daily life, humility means prioritizing God in our decisions, goals, and challenges instead of relying on our own strength or wisdom.

   • Willingness to Serve: Humility encourages us not to center our own needs but to serve others in the spirit of Jesus. It teaches us not to seek recognition but to serve God and our fellow humans.

2. The Role of Grace

   • Accepting Forgiveness: Many people struggle with guilt and failure. Peter’s story reminds us that God’s grace is greater than our mistakes. This truth frees us from self-condemnation and grants us peace.

   • Extending Forgiveness: The grace we experience should be reflected in our interactions with others. In daily life, this means forgiving others for their mistakes and giving them the opportunity to make a new start.

3. The Cross and Our Daily Faith

   • Hope in Challenges: The cross shows that God’s love accompanies us even in the darkest moments. This hope helps us remain steadfast in difficult times.

   • Prioritizing God’s Work Over Our Performance: We must remember that our worth does not depend on our successes but on God’s love. This frees us from performance pressure and allows us to live by grace.

   • Focus on Jesus: Like Peter in his conversation with Jesus, we learn to keep our eyes on Him rather than on our shortcomings or circumstances. In daily life, this means handing over our worries in prayer and trusting that God knows the best path.

4. The Transformative Power of Forgiveness

   • Peter’s Restoration: Shows that no one is too far gone to be restored by God. This truth motivates us to hold on to God’s grace even in seemingly hopeless situations.

   • True Strength: Reminds us that true strength lies in the willingness to be shaped by God and to submit to His plan.

In summary: Grace and humility are not just theological concepts but practical attitudes that help us lead a life full of trust, love, and dedication. By applying these principles in our daily lives, we experience not only personal renewal but also radiate God’s love and forgiveness to those around us. The encounter in Galilee shows that a new beginning is always possible—through God’s grace and our willingness to humble ourselves under His guidance.

True strength lies in accepting God’s grace with humility and trusting Him in all things.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-13-epilogue-knowing-jesus-and-his-word-13-1-meeting-in-galilee-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 22, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 12

¹ Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.

² Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.

³ Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.

⁴ Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

⁵ And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.

⁶ And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

⁷ But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

⁸ For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

⁹ To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;

¹⁰ To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

¹¹ But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.

¹² For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.

¹³ For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

¹⁴ For the body is not one member, but many.

¹⁵ If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

¹⁶ And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?

¹⁷ If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?

¹⁸ But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

¹⁹ And if they were all one member, where were the body?

²⁰ But now are they many members, yet but one body.

²¹ And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

²² Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:

²³ And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.

²⁴ For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked.

²⁵ That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.

²⁶ And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

²⁷ Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

²⁸ And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

²⁹ Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?

³⁰ Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?

³¹ But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

1 Corinthians Chapter 12 is a central section about spiritual gifts and their role in the Body of Christ, the church. The Apostle Paul describes the unity and diversity of gifts, offices, and operations, all originating from one Spirit, one Lord, and one God. This chapter illustrates that each Christian has a unique role in serving the church and that all gifts are intended for the common good and the promotion of unity. The metaphor of the body highlights the dependence and cooperation of the individual members.

Commentary

Many Gifts – One Spirit (Verses 1–11):
Paul makes it clear that spiritual gifts come from the Holy Spirit. The variety of gifts (wisdom, knowledge, faith, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment of spirits, tongues, and their interpretation) serves the well-being of the entire church (v7). The Spirit distributes them to each as He wills (v11). This demonstrates that the gifts are not to be used for self-promotion or division but for the edification of the Body of Christ.

Many Members – One Body (Verses 12–26):
The church is described as the Body of Christ, where each member has a specific function. No member can exist without the others, and all are equal and necessary (v14–20). Paul emphasizes that even the seemingly weaker members should be especially honored to prevent divisions and to care for one another (v22–25). This unity within the body serves as a metaphor for the mutual responsibility and solidarity among believers.

The Body of Christ and the Order of Gifts (Verses 27–31):
Paul reminds the church that they are the Body of Christ and that each individual plays an important role. He mentions various offices and gifts, highlighting apostles, prophets, and teachers as particularly foundational (v28). However, not everyone possesses the same gifts, which underscores the importance of diversity. Finally, Paul urges the church to strive for the best gifts, while anticipating in the next chapter the “more excellent way” of love as the foundation of all gifts.

Summary

1 Corinthians 12 teaches that spiritual gifts and functions originate from God and are all meant to strengthen the church. Paul demonstrates that the unity of believers is not hindered by the diversity of gifts but is instead enhanced by it. Each Christian is an essential part of the Body of Christ and has a unique role. This chapter calls for mutual appreciation, cooperation, and responsibility, while laying the groundwork for the subsequent chapter on love as the highest gift.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | The Desire of Ages
Chapter 82—“Why Weepest Thou?”
This chapter is based on Matthew 28:1, 5-8; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-18.
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 82: “Why Are You Weeping?” describes the wonderful moment of Jesus’ resurrection and the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Lord. Based on the Gospels, it is shown how the sorrow and despair of the believers are transformed into joy and hope as they realize that Jesus is alive. This chapter emphasizes the central significance of the resurrection for the Christian faith and invites believers to embrace the hope of eternal life.

Commentary

The Women at the Empty Tomb:
The women who had accompanied Jesus up to His death came with spices to honor His body, unaware that the promise of His resurrection had already been fulfilled. Their deep sorrow was transformed into awe when they saw the angel who proclaimed the good news: “He is risen.” Their spices became unnecessary because the Savior was alive.

Mary Magdalene and Her Encounter with Jesus:
Mary Magdalene, whose grief was particularly great, experienced a personal encounter with the risen Jesus. Her inability to recognize Him immediately reflects the despair that kept her from the reality of His resurrection. However, Jesus’ loving “Mary” opened her eyes. This scene illustrates how Jesus reveals Himself uniquely to each individual.

The Disciples’ Doubts:
The disciples initially reacted with disbelief to the women’s message. Their doubts and fears prevented them from accepting the truth of the resurrection. Nevertheless, Jesus did not reject them but revealed Himself to strengthen their faith and restore their hope. Especially Peter received personal assurance of forgiveness through the mention of his name.

The Message of Hope:
Jesus’ words “Why are you weeping?” and the angels’ exhortation to spread the good news are still relevant today. The resurrection is the foundation of our hope and joy because it demonstrates that death has been overcome. The call to shift our focus from sorrow to the living Christ is an invitation to live in faith and hope.

Summary

Chapter 82 depicts the encounter of the women and disciples with the risen Jesus and highlights the transformative power of the resurrection. It shows how sorrow, doubt, and despair can be transformed into joy, hope, and faith. The central message is clear: Jesus is alive, and through His resurrection, He grants all believers the hope of eternal life. This chapter calls believers to grow in faith and joyfully share the message of Jesus’ victory over death.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/22-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-12-believe-his-prophets/

1.What decision-making processes can help you avoid the type of mistakes that Pilate made?

Pilate was in a difficult situation where he had to make a decision under the pressure of the crowd and the religious leaders. His mistakes—uncertainty, fear of consequences, and the attempt to please everyone—can serve as a warning. To avoid such mistakes, the following decision-making processes can be helpful:

1. Prioritize Truth and Principles

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He recognized the truth but did not act accordingly out of fear of consequences.

  • Approach: Develop a solid foundation of values and principles to guide you. Prioritize the truth, even when it is uncomfortable. Ask yourselves: “What is right, not just what is easy?”

2. Courage to Decide

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He tried to shift responsibility instead of making a clear decision.

  • Approach: Take responsibility for your decisions, even when they are difficult. Be willing to act even when the consequences are challenging.

3. Careful Consideration

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He was influenced by the loudness of the crowd and external pressure.

  • Approach: Take the time to thoroughly analyze the situation. Listen to different opinions, but do not let loud voices or group pressure guide you. Ask yourself: “What is the long-term effect of my decision?”

4. Seek Counsel

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He seemed isolated and allowed himself to be influenced solely by the crowd.

  • Approach: Seek wise and trustworthy advisors who can support you in difficult decisions. Talk to people who have moral integrity and can help you think clearly.

5. Recognize Majority Pressure

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He acted out of fear of an uprising and gave in to majority pressure.

  • Approach: Learn to distinguish between doing what is right and making popular decisions. Practice saying “No” when the majority takes a morally wrong path.

6. Seek God’s Will

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He did not consider that Jesus was the bearer of truth and ignored divine principles.

  • Approach: Pray and seek God’s wisdom in your decision-making. Reflect on the question: “Does my decision align with God’s will and His principles?”

7. Develop Backbone

• • Pilate’s Mistake: He wanted to avoid conflict and made compromises that betrayed justice.

  • Approach: Practice making decisions that stand by your convictions, even if it means facing opposition. Ask yourself: “What would I do if no one agreed with me?”

Conclusion

Mistakes like Pilate’s often arise from fear, pressure, or the pursuit of convenience. By prioritizing truth and principles, seeking God’s will, and being willing to take responsibility, you can avoid such errors. Decisions based on truth, courage, and integrity lead to long-term peace and justice.

2.Why did Jesus have to die in our place? Why did he have to be our substitute? Why was his death necessary for us to be redeemed? Which Bible verses support your answer?

Jesus had to die in our place because only through His sacrifice could the separation between God and humanity be overcome. His death was necessary to bear the sin of the world, pay the penalty for our guilt, and reconcile us with God.

1. The Necessity of a Substitute

• • Sin Separates Us from God: Since the fall (Genesis 3), humanity has been separated from God by sin. The Bible teaches that “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Death is not only physical but also eternal separation from God.

  • God’s Justice Requires Atonement: God is perfectly just and cannot simply ignore sin (Psalm 89:15). It was necessary for someone to pay the penalty for sin to satisfy God’s justice.

  • Jesus as Our Substitute: Since we could not bear this guilt ourselves, Jesus, who is sinless, had to die as our substitute (1 Peter 2:24).

2. Why His Death Was Necessary for Our Redemption

• • The Perfect Sacrifice: In the Old Testament, animal sacrifices were offered for the atonement of sins (Leviticus 17:11). However, these sacrifices were only temporary shadows. Jesus is the “Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). His death was the final and perfect sacrifice (Hebrews 10:10).

  • Reconciliation with God: Through His death, Jesus bore the punishment for our sins, freed us from guilt, and reconciled us with God (Romans 5:10). “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

  • Victory Over Death: Jesus’ death and resurrection defeated death and the power of evil (1 Corinthians 15:55–57). His sacrifice opens the way to eternal life for all who believe in Him (John 3:16).

Bible Verses Supporting This

1. John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

   • Meaning: God’s love motivated Him to send His Son as a sacrifice for our salvation.

2. Isaiah 53:5: “But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on Him, and by His wounds we are healed.”

   • Meaning: Jesus bore the punishment for our sins and brought healing and peace.

3. 1 Peter 2:24: “He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By His wounds you have been healed.”

   • Meaning: Jesus carried our sins and gave us the opportunity to live righteously.

4. Romans 5:8: “But God demonstrates His own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

   • Meaning: Jesus died to make God’s love and redemption visible, even though we did not deserve it.

5. Hebrews 9:22: “In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.”

   • Meaning: Jesus’ death was necessary to enable the forgiveness of sins.

6. 2 Corinthians 5:21: “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”

   • Meaning: Jesus’ death made it possible for us to stand righteous before God.

Conclusion

Jesus had to die in our place because we could not bear the punishment for our sins. His death was the only perfect sacrifice that fulfilled God’s justice and provided us with redemption. Through His death and resurrection, He offers us the opportunity to live in a renewed relationship with God and receive eternal life. This is the foundation of our faith and the greatest revelation of God’s love.

3.What is the relationship between the evidence from Holy Scripture and the historical evidence when it comes to the belief in Jesus’ resurrection? Which historical evidence strongly confirms the resurrection of Jesus?

The biblical and historical evidence complement each other and together contribute to the credibility of Jesus’ resurrection. Scripture provides the theological and prophetic foundation, while historical evidence supports the events from an objective perspective.

1. Evidence from Holy Scripture

The Bible attests to Jesus’ resurrection through eyewitness accounts, prophetic fulfillments, and the apostles’ proclamation. It not only provides historical data but also shows the spiritual significance of the resurrection.

• Prophetic Fulfillments: Scripture prophesied the resurrection long before Jesus’ birth:

  • Psalm 16:10: “because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.”

  • Isaiah 53:10–11: “Yet it was the Lord’s will to crush him and cause him to suffer… and He will see the light of life and be satisfied.”

• Gospel Accounts: All four Gospels describe the resurrection (Matthew 28:1–10; Mark 16:1–8; Luke 24:1–12; John 20:1–18).

• Acts and Epistles: Paul and other apostles testify to the resurrection:

  • 1 Corinthians 15:3–8: Paul lists witnesses, including himself, emphasizing that the resurrection is central to the faith.

  • Romans 1:4: “and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by His resurrection from the dead.”

Connection: The Bible presents the resurrection as a God-ordained and accomplished event, central to faith and redemption.

2. Historical Evidence for Jesus’ Resurrection

Historical evidence provides an additional perspective by supporting the resurrection through historical data, cultural contexts, and non-biblical sources.

1. 1. a) The Empty Tomb

• • • Historical Fact: Even Jesus’ opponents acknowledged that the tomb was empty (Matthew 28:11–15).

    • Evidence: If Jesus’ body had remained in the tomb, His enemies would have publicly displayed it to disprove the resurrection.

1. 1. b) Eyewitness Testimonies

• • • Eyewitnesses: According to Paul (1 Corinthians 15:3–8), over 500 people saw the risen Jesus. Many of these witnesses were still alive when these reports were circulated.

    • Transformation of the Disciples: The disciples transformed from fearful men into bold witnesses willing to die for their faith, indicating the genuineness of their experience.

1. 1. c) The Formation of the Church

• • • Unlikely Spread Without Resurrection: Without the resurrection, the early church would have struggled to spread. The proclamation of the resurrection was the central message (Acts 2:22–24).

1. 1. d) Extra-Biblical Sources

• • • Tacitus (Annals 15.44): The Roman historian mentions the execution of Jesus and the belief in His resurrection by Christians.

    • Josephus (Antiquities 18.63–64): The Jewish historian refers to Jesus, His crucifixion, and the conviction of His followers regarding His resurrection.

1. 1. e) Lack of Plausible Alternative Explanations

• • • Grave Robbery: Improbable, as neither the Romans nor the Jewish leaders had the motive or means to steal Jesus’ body. Additionally, the disciples lacked the means and courage to carry out such a theft.

    • Visionary Experiences: Psychological explanations like mass hallucinations are insufficient, given the diverse and numerous appearances of Jesus to different individuals in various settings.

3. Connection Between Biblical and Historical Evidence

• • Shared Foundation: Both types of evidence support the reality of the resurrection.

  • Scripture as Primary Source: The Bible provides not only theological interpretations but also firsthand historical accounts.

  • Historical Evidence as Confirmation: Historical data reinforce the biblical reports, making the resurrection more plausible to skeptical readers.

Conclusion

Jesus’ resurrection is portrayed in Scripture as a divinely planned and accomplished event, supported by historical evidence that verifies the reality of the resurrection. The Bible offers both theological insight and eyewitness testimony, while historical sources validate the occurrence and impact of the resurrection. Together, these forms of evidence provide a robust foundation for the belief in Jesus’ resurrection, making it both a historically credible and theologically central event.

4.Reflect on 1 Corinthians 15:12–20. How do you explain the idea that without the resurrection of Christ, “those who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost” (1 Cor 15:18), when the “those who have fallen asleep in Christ” immediately go to heaven? To what extent do Paul’s words here confirm the truth that the dead are asleep until the resurrection at the coming of Christ?

Meaning of 1 Corinthians 15:12–20: “Those who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost”

In 1 Corinthians 15:12–20, Paul argues that the resurrection of Christ is central to the Christian faith. Without the resurrection, not only would the living be “the most pitiable of all people” (v. 19), but “those who have fallen asleep in Christ” would also be “lost” (v. 18). This statement has profound theological significance, relating to the hope of Christ’s return and the resurrection of the dead.

Why Would Those Asleep in Christ Be Lost Without Christ’s Resurrection?

• No Redemption Without Resurrection: The resurrection of Jesus is the proof that His sacrifice for sins was effective. Without the resurrection, death would not be defeated, and the promise of eternal life would be empty.

  • Romans 4:25: “He was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification.”

  • Meaning: The resurrection of Christ shows that death has lost its power and that the promise of resurrection is true. Without it, those “asleep in Christ” would have no hope of eternal life.

• No Hope for His Return: Belief in the resurrection is inseparable from the hope of Christ’s return. Without the resurrection, Christ’s return would be meaningless, and the promise that the dead will be raised would be void.

How Do You Explain “Those Who Have Fallen Asleep in Christ” and Their State?

Paul uses the metaphor of “sleep” to describe the state of the dead before the resurrection. This metaphor is frequently used in Scripture to indicate that death is not the final end but a temporary state until the resurrection.

1. a) Sleep as a Metaphor for Death

• John 11:11–14: Jesus speaks of Lazarus’ death as “sleep,” which He will awaken.

• 1 Thessalonians 4:13–16: Paul describes the dead as “sleeping” who will be raised at the coming of Christ.

1. b) No Conscious Existence in Death

• The Concept of Sleep Suggests: The dead do not live consciously but are waiting for the resurrection.

  • Ecclesiastes 9:5: “For the living know that they will die, but the dead know nothing.”

  • Psalm 146:4: “When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans perish.”

  • Meaning: The dead are in a state of waiting, unconscious until they are raised at Christ’s return.

1. c) Why Are the “Asleep in Christ” Lost Without the Resurrection?

• If Christ Had Not Risen: There would be no hope for the resurrection of believers. They would remain in their state of sleep and not be raised to eternal life.

• 1 Corinthians 15:22: “For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.”

  • Meaning: Without Christ’s resurrection, there would be no power over death, and the promise of eternal life would be nullified.

Confirmation That the Dead Are “Sleeping” Until Resurrection

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:12–20 affirm the biblical teaching that the dead remain “asleep” until the Second Coming of Christ when they will be resurrected:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:16: “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.”

• John 5:28–29: “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice and come out—those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.”

  • Meaning: These passages show that the dead are not already in heaven but are waiting for the resurrection at Christ’s return.

Conclusion: The Faith in Christ’s Resurrection and the Resurrection of the Dead

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15 emphasize the central role of Christ’s resurrection in the Christian faith:

• Without the Resurrection: There would be no hope for the dead and no possibility of eternal life.

• The Dead “Sleep” Until Christ’s Return: The dead remain in a state of sleep until the Second Coming of Christ when they will be raised, and the promise of eternal life will be fulfilled.

• The State of “Sleep” Emphasizes: The hope of believers is not in the moment of death but in the resurrection and return of Christ.

Thus, the resurrection of Jesus is the key to redemption, providing the assurance that death is not the end but the beginning of a new life in communion with God.

Summary

Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 15:12–20 clarify that Christ’s resurrection is fundamental to the Christian faith. Without it, both the living and the dead in Christ would lack hope and purpose. His words affirm that those who have died in Christ are in a state of sleep, awaiting the resurrection at His return. This doctrinal stance reinforces the belief that the dead remain asleep until the resurrection, providing a coherent theological framework for the hope of eternal life.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-resurrection-12-7-questions-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/