Sermon May 17
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
WHEN YOU LIVE IN CONSTANT HOPE YOUR LIFE CHOICES REFLECT IT. 1 Corinthians 15:19 says, “If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people the most to be pitied.” You were made for eternity. Like a bumpy bus ride when you have to stand and hold on to the strap above you, the hope of eternity is what keeps our faith from falling. Verse 20 says, “Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” This life is not the end. Jesus showed us by His own death and resurrection that He is able to resurrect our life. He is called the “firstfruit” of all humanity because He was resurrected first. Jesus was not the first to be raised to life. Lazarus among others died and was raised back to life. No, Jesus wasn’t just raised, He was raised in glory. You see, you weren’t just made for eternity. You were made for glory. Lazarus had to die a second time. He was not raised to glory like Jesus. Jesus raised to life beyond death and struggle, beyond hunger and thirst, pain and fear. This is your hope: that whatever happens in this life, your eternity in glory is secure.
Discussion Questions
- Do you have a firm confidence in your own resurrection to glory one day?
- How does knowing that you will live again and in perfection change the way you feel about life here on earth today? What difference would it make in your life decisions and your attitude if this life was all there was?
