Daily Bread

1. More reasons to believe (29-32)

Paul gives several more reasons why the Corinthians should accept the resurrection of the dead. Apparently, there was a tradition where people were baptized for the sake of those who had passed away or because of the good influence the deceased had had on them. Either way, without the resurrection of the dead, it was pointless because no one would ever benefit from it. Furthermore, if the resurrection weren't true, then all the dangers Paul faced would have been for nothing. Without the resurrection, there is little motivation for living a moral life and the only rational thing to do is to find as much pleasure and enjoyment as possible.

2. A moral life (33-34)

Those who lived immorally because they rejected the resurrection of the dead were a bad influence on the members of the church. Paul warns the Corinthians about being misled by such people. To reject the resurrection is to reject the promises of Christ and to be ignorant of God. Paul cries for them to wake up, come back to their senses, and stop sinning. The good news of the resurrection leads us to live a life that is pleasing to Christ in full anticipation of the day when we will be with him forever.