How should belief in resurrection influence our daily decisions and priorities? Scripture Focus “If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus for human motives, what did I gain? If the dead are not raised, ‘Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.’” (1 Corinthians 15:32) The Logic Behind Paul’s Challenge • Paul’s argument is simple: if there is no resurrection, then sacrificial living is pointless. • Because resurrection is certain, present sacrifices have eternal payoff. • Rejecting resurrection leads to a “live for the moment” mindset; embracing it births fearless devotion. Resurrection Shapes Our Values • Time: We invest in what outlasts the grave—people, truth, the gospel. • Money: We give generously, knowing wealth here is temporary (Matthew 6:19-21). • Reputation: We choose integrity over popularity because our vindication is future (1 Peter 1:6-7). • Pleasure: We enjoy God’s gifts without idolizing them, remembering fuller joy is coming (Psalm 16:11; Revelation 21:4). • Suffering: Hardships become light and momentary compared to resurrection glory (2 Corinthians 4:17). Daily Choices Anchored in Eternity • Start decisions by asking, “Will this matter a million years from now?” • Say “yes” to difficult obedience—sharing Christ, forgiving, serving—because eternal reward dwarfs present cost (Luke 14:14). • Break sinful habits that promise fleeting thrills but steal future joy (Romans 6:4-5). • Prioritize spiritual disciplines; resurrection makes prayer, Scripture, and worship eternally productive. Guarding Against a “Tomorrow We Die” Mentality • Spot cultural slogans—“You only live once,” “Treat yourself,” “Follow your heart”—and compare them with 1 Corinthians 15:32. • Counter with truth: “You will live forever, and what you do now echoes into eternity.” • Surround yourself with believers who remind you of the resurrection hope (Hebrews 10:24-25). Living Courageously for Christ • Risking comfort for mission makes sense when death is defeated (Philippians 1:20-24). • Persecution loses its sting because resurrection guarantees vindication (Matthew 5:11-12). • Every act of love, unseen by others, is noticed by the risen Lord who will reward openly (1 Corinthians 15:58). Other Verses That Reinforce the Call • Romans 6:4: “We too may walk in newness of life.” • Colossians 3:1-2: “Set your minds on things above, where Christ is seated.” • 1 Peter 1:3-4: “A living hope… an inheritance imperishable.” • Philippians 3:20-21: “We eagerly await a Savior… who will transform our lowly bodies.” Practical Steps for Today • Write one decision you’re facing; list how resurrection truth tilts that decision toward eternity. • Schedule intentional generosity—time or money—this week as a declaration that treasure is in heaven. • Memorize 1 Corinthians 15:32-34 to combat complacency. • Encourage another believer with resurrection hope; speak life into their present struggle. Because Christ rose, every ordinary choice can become an investment in the age to come. |
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