What does "always excel in the work of the Lord" mean for you? The Setting of 1 Corinthians 15:58 “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” Paul has just celebrated Christ’s bodily resurrection and our future resurrection (vv. 12–57). Because victory over death is certain, every moment invested for Christ carries eternal weight. What Does “Always Excel” Mean? • “Excel” (perisseuō) means to overflow, go beyond, abound. • “Always” removes any off-season mentality—no pause button on devotion. • Together: live in constant overflow, giving the Lord more than minimum effort. Defining “the Work of the Lord” It covers every sphere where Christ’s rule is acknowledged: • Gospel witness (Acts 1:8) • Discipling others (Matthew 28:19–20) • Using spiritual gifts in the church (1 Peter 4:10) • Daily vocation done “for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23) • Family responsibilities shaped by Ephesians 5–6 • Acts of mercy and generosity (James 1:27; Galatians 6:10) • Quiet faithfulness in unseen tasks (Matthew 6:4) If He is Lord over all, then all legitimate activity can be “work of the Lord” when done in obedience and with love. Motivations for Overflowing Service 1. Resurrection Hope • Because He lives, your labor “is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) • Future reward: “each will receive his own reward according to his labor.” (1 Corinthians 3:8) 2. Christ’s Example • “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us.” (Ephesians 5:2) • Our service mirrors His self-giving. 3. Spirit Empowerment • “It is God who works in you to will and to act.” (Philippians 2:13) • Excellence comes by His strength, not bare willpower. Practical Ways to “Excel” Today • Examine motives—seek His glory, not applause (Matthew 6:1). • Lift quality—do the task as if Jesus will inspect it (Colossians 3:24). • Increase generosity—look for one more person to bless (2 Corinthians 9:8). • Persevere—refuse to quit when results seem small (Galatians 6:9). • Redeem time—prioritize Kingdom tasks in schedules (Ephesians 5:16). • Cultivate joy—service is worship, not drudgery (Psalm 100:2). Steadfast and Immovable—Guardrails for Excellence • Anchor in sound doctrine to resist drift (2 Timothy 1:13). • Stay in fellowship; iron sharpens iron (Hebrews 10:24–25). • Keep short accounts with God; unconfessed sin dulls zeal (1 John 1:9). A Final Encouragement Overflowing labor for Christ can look ordinary—typing an email with integrity, rocking a baby during church, sharing coffee and Scripture with a friend. None of it is wasted. The empty tomb guarantees that every act of faith-filled obedience will echo forever. |
    |