What does 1 Corinthians 15:31 teach about perseverance in faith? The Verse in Focus “I face death every day, brothers, as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:31) Key Phrase: “I face death every day” • Paul’s words are literal: he continually risked his life for the gospel (cf. Acts 20:22–24). • They are also devotional: choosing daily self-denial so Christ’s life may shine through (Luke 9:23). • The phrase underscores ongoing, active perseverance—not a one-time decision, but a steady, deliberate commitment. Perseverance Rooted in Resurrection • 1 Corinthians 15 centers on Christ’s bodily resurrection; verses 30–32 link Paul’s daily dangers to that hope. • Because Jesus lives, enduring hardship is never futile (v. 58). • Perseverance flows from certainty: if Christ rose, no sacrifice is wasted (Romans 8:18). Practical Implications for Us Daily “dying” looks like: • Choosing obedience when culture pressures compromise. • Crucifying selfish impulses so others see Christ (Galatians 2:20). • Persisting in prayer and Scripture even when feelings lag (Psalm 119:147). • Bearing reproach or loss for righteousness’ sake, confident of eternal reward (Matthew 5:11–12). Supporting Scriptures on Daily Perseverance • Luke 9:23 – “Whoever wants to be My disciple must deny himself and take up his cross daily.” • 2 Corinthians 4:10–11 – “Always carrying around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed.” • Hebrews 12:1–2 – “Run with endurance the race set before us… fixing our eyes on Jesus.” • 2 Timothy 4:7 – “I have fought the good fight… I have kept the faith.” Encouragement to Keep Going • Perseverance is not grim duty; it’s confidence that “our labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Grace supplies strength for each new “day of dying” (2 Corinthians 12:9). • The resurrection guarantees that present faithfulness will be crowned with future glory (1 Peter 1:3–7). |
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