“But when this perishable will have put on the imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality, then will come about the saying that is written, ‘Death is swallowed up in victory’” (1 Corinthians 15:54)
I tire of death. It fatigues me. I don’t get tired so much thinking of my own death, but I grow weary of burying my friends and loved ones. It wearies me and it angers me to see good people I love die. It is as if the devil must remind us from time to time that he has deceived the whole world into accepting death. All the way back to Adam and Eve, Satan brought death to this world. Every funeral is a reminder that the evil one has a firm grasp on the affairs of this world and none of us will be able to leave this life alive. Everyone has a casket appointed for them because of the adversary and the sting of sin.
So, it is a good reminder what Paul says in the verse above. Someday, death will be swallowed up in victory. No more funerals. No more eulogies. No more caskets. Someday, we will be done with all this perishing business.
I long for that day. Don’t you?
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision