But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me. Whether then it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed. 1 Corinthians 15:10-11
I continue my study of 1 Corinthians, moving on to an unassisted review of 1 Corinthians 15:1-11. Here, Paul provides an unequivocal delivery of the core gospel message:
- Christ died for our sins - v3
- He rose and was seen by many, including Paul - vv4-8
Paul then goes on to share both gratitude and humility for the grace Christ poured out to him, that despite how Paul persecuted the church (v9), God was gracious (v10) and this grace was not in vain as Paul worked on behalf of the gospel as hard as anyone (though Holy Spirit working through Paul) to bring this gospel to others so that they also may be saved (v11).
It goes without saying that 1 Corinthians 15:1-2 provide an important exhortation that our salvation depends on holding fast to the gospel - daily study and prayer.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of so much grace and compassion for me - like Paul I am so undeserving of the grace You provide. My sin is great and it continues...please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from such sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind, and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
