The entire theme of 1 Corinthians 15 is resurrection. The resurrection is the essence of the gospel. Without resurrection, we cannot inherit the kingdom of God. Why can't we inherit the kingdom of God if we are not resurrected? This body of flesh and blood is perishable, temporary, and belongs only to this life; but the kingdom of God is incorruptible and eternal. Therefore, it is through death that the physical body is ended and through resurrection that a spiritual body is brought to us so that we can inherit the kingdom of God.

Brothers and sisters, do you see it? The purpose of the transformation through resurrection is that we can inherit the kingdom of God. Therefore, we are not living to eat, drink, play, sleep, or even to wait for death, but to be transformed. The truth of resurrection brings about two changes in our outlook on life.

1. Change in the view of life and death

People often have an unspeakable fear of strange and unknown things. Life and death are the two great mysteries of life. With the development of modern medicine, we basically know the secret of life, but death remains a mystery. Therefore, everyone fears death. In this world, there are very few people who are not afraid of death. The sad thing is that everyone is afraid of death, but cannot avoid it.

In fact, death is a process. From the day we are born, we gradually deteriorate and eventually die. Today many people celebrate birthdays. Frankly, without the hope of resurrection, what is there to celebrate about birthdays? Every time you celebrate a birthday, you get closer to death. Many people are afraid of the aging process, so they pay attention to their diet, fitness, makeup, hair dyeing, plastic surgery... I am not saying that these are bad, but I want to point out a fact: the reason behind many people doing this is based on fear.

But thank the Lord! The truth of the resurrection removes our fear. Christians are not afraid of death because we believe that there is resurrection after death, and resurrection will bring us into a better world. If we are not afraid of death, our life will become strong. If we are not afraid of death, then we have nothing to fear! The resurrection brings us this sense of security.

2. Change your value systems in this life

What is the meaning of resurrection? It is "death swallowed up in victory" (v.54)! Our faith and life are inseparable. If we have the assurance of resurrection, we will have the hope of victory. How much we need this hope! Without hope for tomorrow, we will lose the motivation to live today! After discussing the truth of resurrection in chapter 15, the Holy Spirit inspired Paul to make a summary in v.58: "Therefore, brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

Today, even non-believers know how to prepare for the needs of this life, such as saving money for marriage, doing revisions for the college entrance examinations, buying insurance... Only fools do not prepare in advance and are at a loss when the time comes. Smart people will definitely plan ahead. Unfortunately, many Christians today only prepare for this life but ignore eternity. It is so stupid not to make adequate preparations for eternity!

Do you remember the parable of the ten maids? (See Matthew 25:1-13) Brothers and sisters, do you want to be wise maids or foolish maids? All wise maids of the Lord will prepare oil in their lamps, be alert in this age, and be prepared for eternity. Please prepare yourself to meet your God.

Questions for discussion:

1. Please be honest with yourself, are you afraid of death? Why are you afraid? Why are you not afraid?
2. How does the truth of resurrection affect your attitude and lifestyle today? Are you prepared for eternity? Can you feel at peace when you meet the Lord? What areas in your life need to be adjusted so that you can become a "wise maid"?

Resurrection