Lesson 2886

(Lesson 2886)(11-23-19) 1 Corinthians15:24-34
    “ Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.”

    In the first part of today’s quote, Paul spoke of when Jesus, after defeating Satan, (Death), will surrender all whom have believed in Him and all earthly authority back to the Father.
    In the middle of the quote, Paul spoke of those who “are baptized for the dead”. That reference can be confusing to many because Paul does not precisely explain who are they that are baptized for the dead. In my opinion, and its an opinion reached through contextual study, Paul was referring to those, like himself, including Jesus Himself, who dedicate, and have dedicated, their lives to the purpose of Jesus Christ. That is because, if there is no resurrection of the dead Jesus and all of those who followed Him would have been wasting their time.
    I believe that the word “baptized”, as it is applied in this context, pertains to the devotion of those who preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.
    In the last part of the quote, Paul reasoned that if there is no resurrection of the dead then we should ignore all moral standards and do whatever we feel. I prefer to believe the promise that Jesus made; “In my father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:2)~