Facing Death in the Power of the Resurrection

29Now if there is no resurrection, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them? 30And as for us, why do we endanger ourselves every hour? 31I face death every day—yes, just as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our Lord. 32If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus with no more than human hopes, what have I gained? If the dead are not raised,
“Let us eat and drink,for tomorrow we die.” (1 Corinthians 15:29-32)

Thoughts: This is a curious passage addressing a curious, unusual (and unsanctioned) practice.  The ancient Marcionites and another sect in Corinth followed the practice of baptizing a living person in place of a dead person who had indicated they wanted to be baptized- but died before they could (a catechumen).  In the old church there was a long training period before baptism, and the death of someone in training was rare but possible.  In the church today, if someone indicates they wish to be baptized- they could quickly (like the Ethiopian Eunuch- "here is some water- why can I not be baptized?"  Or like Jesus himself who surprised John the Baptist with his baptism).  The baptism for the dead was a symbolic thing.  But we know you do not have to be baptized to go to heaven.
       But Paul's major point here is that if there is no resurrection, why is he willing to face death?  Death's fear is gone because of the resurrection.  This emboldened Paul, and it should embolden us to live the Christian life.  The unbelievers and hedonists "eat drink (and be merry) for death is immanent and takes away meaning and hope.  But we have a hope that what we do here matters in the sight of God, and our death is also precious to Him.  The resurrection is a symbol of eternal meaning and hope. 

Prayer: Lord, give me meaning in the face of life and in the face of death.  Let what I do be bold for you!