We can develop some quirky habits and traditions. Those traditions are usually backed up by some flawed thinking. The Corinthians thought getting baptized for someone who had already died helped that person get into heaven. They also thought that partying and hanging out with the wrong crowd didn’t affect their spiritual life. Paul let them know otherwise. He gives them a Wake-Up Call.
1 Corinthians 15:29-34
Otherwise, what do people mean by being baptized on behalf of the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized on their behalf? Why are we in danger every hour? I protest, brothers, by my pride in you, which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die every day! What do I gain if, humanly speaking, I fought with beasts at Ephesus? If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.” Do not be deceived: “Bad company ruins good morals.” Wake up from your drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning. For some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame.
Focus on the Right Things
Sometimes you come to a passage that leaves you puzzled. People were being baptized to the dead. While we are not sure the exact meaning, it suggests that people were being baptized on behalf of the dead. They were hoping it would help those who already died. Paul asks what’s the point? He then tries to refocus their attention on what is important, walking with Christ on a daily basis.
Who Are You Fooling?
The Corinthians didn’t need a reason to party but the “Eat and drink because you’re just going to die” mantra was huge. They would say: “What does it matter if you’re just going to die?” “Do what feels good.” It made them feel better when they were doing something they knew was a sin. Paul is very clear that we don’t fool ourselves by this selfish thinking.
Who Are Your Friends?
We need to assess who we are hanging out with. Bad friends corrupt good morals. If you’re friends with people who always want to participate in activities that go against scripture it’s time to find new friends. It’s time to wake up and live a life of obedience. Don’t continue to live a life of sinning. It is a shame to us and to God to live this way.
21 Day Devotion
We have created a resource to help you with your walk with Jesus. It’s called “21 Days to a Fresh Start” and it’s free for you to download. Use this to get your new year grounded in the Word of God and your faith started on a new path. Click here to download.