09/22/19 - Joyful Realism - 1 Corinthians 15:35-58 - Aligned

“What happens when I die?” At some point in life everyone asks this question. Without Jesus the answer is hopeless. With Jesus the answer is hopeful. In our culture when we speak of hope we mean to say there’s at least a small measure of uncertainty in us. “Will it finally cool down tomorrow?” “I hope so.” Biblical hope isn’t this way. Biblical hope is a joyful conviction based on compelling evidence. Last week we examined the compelling evidence for the resurrection of Jesus. This leads us to a joyful conviction – we too will be resurrected!

But what exactly does the resurrection mean for you? For one thing, your resurrected body will be perfectly suited to a resurrected earth. There’s a lot to be said here but if Jesus’ resurrected body is any indication there will be relationships, laughter, conversation, travel, eating and many more good things…all in a perfect environment free from sin.

Secondly, it means that death is defeated once and for all. Paul actually taunts death; he bullies it as if it was a once proud tyrant but is now an old toothless lion. For this reason Paul could face anything in life. He had an unsinkable and stubborn joy that could not be stopped. Knowing that death is defeated and resurrection is ahead; Paul gives a final exhortation to the church in Corinth:

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. 1 Corinthians 15:58

You might be tired from all your labors. It’s ok to be tired. If you’re not tired you’re probably not laboring. But we don't need to waver, we don't need to change direction, we don't need to fall, and we don't need to quit. 

For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister. Hebrews 6:10

God will show His remembrance of our work and labor of love at the resurrection!