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1 Corinthians 15:29-32
In 1 Corinthians 15:29-32 the Apostle Paul gives the opposite viewpoint of that which he has already stated in 1 Corinthians 15:12-28. If Christ Jesus has not been raised from the dead/if there is no resurrection, then what point is there in being baptized, as the representation of baptism is of going under the grave with Christ Jesus in expectation of being raised with Him upon His return? In the Corinthians’ apparent disbelief in the resurrection, Paul pleads with them in support of the resurrection as to put his own life example to them in terms of the jeopardy which he has been involved for Christ Jesus. He declares in 1 Corinthians 15:32b (NKJV) and quotes Isaiah 22:13 (a passage of Scripture that is dedicated to the ultimate demise of a non-believing people, “If the dead do not rise, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!” [Isaiah 22:13]. He is once again saying to the misunderstanding of the gospel by the Corinthians, as he stated in 1 Corinthians 15:19, “19If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.”
This is a promise of being baptized into the death of Christ Jesus so that we too may rise again to everlasting life – in Christ.
The Apostle Paul is saying in this passage as he begins with the word “Otherwise,” in 1 Corinthians 15:29, that what he has already stated in 1 Corinthians 15:12-28 is of no use to anyone if Jesus did not rise from the dead. This is the key to salvation – that Jesus rose from the dead. In this miracle, as we might say, is the victory over sin as Jesus paid the price for all sin by being the sinless sacrifice in death. “Sinless” is not ruled by sin, and cannot die because death is the penalty for sin. Jesus was sinless, but yet He died. This was like a catastrophic mind blow to Satan and the sin that he has ultimately caused in this world through the initial temptation of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). Death could not handle a sinless being entering into it; it was like an explosion that killed death. However, the end has not yet come and all things have not yet been put under His feet (Psalm 8:6). But it could happen at any moment; are you ready? Are you sure in your heart that Jesus lives there? Today is a great time to invite Jesus into your heart as you profess Him your Lord and Savior.
Dear LORD,
We partake in ceremonies such as communion and baptism which You have instructed us to do in remembrance of what You have done for us through Your one and only Son Jesus as He paid the price for all our sins so that we may be set free from them and experience new life as Your children. Please give us understanding of Your word so that we may grow in our relationships with You and to lead others to You – in Christ. In Jesus name I pray, amen.