1 Corinthians 15:30

1 Corinthians 15:30 (KJV): "And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?"

Context of 1 Corinthians 15:30

This verse is found within Paul's powerful and comprehensive defense of the resurrection of the dead in 1 Corinthians 15. The Corinthian church had some members who denied the resurrection, perhaps influenced by Greek philosophical thought that disdained the physical body. Paul argues vehemently that if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ Himself was not raised (1 Corinthians 15:13). He asserts that without Christ's resurrection, their faith is futile, and they are still in their sins (1 Corinthians 15:17). In verses 29-32, Paul presents rhetorical questions and arguments to highlight the absurdity of living a life of sacrifice and danger if there is no future resurrection and eternal hope.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Reality of Persecution and Suffering: Paul's question, "why stand we in jeopardy every hour?", underscores the constant danger and severe trials faced by the apostles and early Christians. Their lives were marked by opposition, physical threats, and hardship for the sake of the Gospel. This was not an occasional inconvenience but a continuous state of peril, reflecting the significant cost of discipleship.
• The Resurrection as Motivation: The implicit answer to Paul's question is that he and his fellow ministers endured such suffering precisely because they believed in the resurrection of the dead and the eternal life that followed. Without this hope, their sacrifices would be meaningless, and their suffering irrational. The resurrection provided the ultimate validation and reward for their faithfulness, even in the face of death.
• Living with Eternal Perspective: This verse challenges believers to consider their motivations. If our hope is only in this life, then enduring hardship for the faith makes no sense. Paul implies that a true understanding of the resurrection transforms one's perspective, empowering them to face any earthly challenge with courage and purpose, knowing that their ultimate reward is not here (2 Corinthians 4:17).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "jeopardy" is kindyneuomen (κινδυνεύομεν), meaning "to be in danger," "to be imperiled," or "to run risks." The phrase "every hour" (καθ᾽ ὥραν - kath' hōran) emphasizes the relentless and continuous nature of the danger Paul and his companions faced. It was not an occasional threat but a constant reality, highlighting the extreme conditions under which they spread the Gospel and the intense apostolic suffering.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 15:30 serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational importance of the resurrection. It encourages us to:

• Embrace Enduring Hope: Our faith is not in vain because Christ was raised, and we too will be raised. This Christian hope empowers us to face challenges, whether they are minor inconveniences or significant persecutions, with an eternal perspective.
• Evaluate Our Sacrifices: If we are called to make sacrifices for our faith, this verse reminds us that such actions are justified by the promise of future glory. It prompts us to ask, "Why do I endure what I endure for Christ?" The answer should be rooted in the certainty of His victory over death.
• Live Courageously: Paul's willingness to face constant danger for the Gospel challenges us to live boldly for Christ, even when it is unpopular or difficult. Understanding the profound truth of the resurrection gives us courage to stand firm in our convictions, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).