1 Corinthians 15 & 16

These two chapters bring us to the conclusion of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he covers two big themes: GOING and GIVING.


I say "GOING" intentionally, because, while we often call it “death” and think of it as an end, Scripture suggests it’s more of a transition—from this life to either eternal life or condemnation. Earlier this year, we lost a young lad of 15. His departure hit me hard, and I found myself looking at Scripture again for comfort and clarity. What I discovered was eye-opening! 


In Scripture, "death" often refers to physical death, particularly as a result of judgment or sin. Those who “died” faced God’s immediate judgment or were unbelievers. In contrast, "sleep" is frequently used to describe the death of believers, implying that physical death for them is only temporary because they will be raised to eternal life. This “sleep” softens the finality of death and reflects the Christian hope of resurrection. 


Consider this: Ananias and Sapphira, Saul, Jezebel, and Uzzah are described as having DIED. Meanwhile, David, Stephen, Lazarus, and some Corinthian believers are described as having SLEPT. If you know the backstories here, the difference is striking. Live righteously, and you sleep in the end. Live unrighteously, and…well, you're dead!


Then in Chapter 16, Paul shifts gears and talks about GIVING. The Corinthians are in the middle of a fundraising season, and by this point, Paul seems ready to wrap up his letter. So, he keeps it simple: “Just do what the Galatians did.” Now, there's your study challenge—go find out what the Galatians did! But Paul does lay down a few guidelines: plan your giving, set aside what you intend to give, give within your means, and finally—actually give. 😎


So, when your time to "go" comes, will you be among the "sleepers" or the…diers? Watch your spiritual diet, my friend! Or…if that fails, maybe it’s time to watch the movie Die Hard. 😂



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