New Testament Reading Plan Week 31: 1 Corinthians 15–2 Corinthians 3
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul pivots from addressing problems about worship practices to the issue of resurrection. He argues for a general resurrection of the dead and the existence of an imperishable body for those raised on the last day—since Christ is raised, so we will be. How is our resurrection linked to Christ’s (vv. 12–19)? What is our “proof” that we will be raised, too (v. 20)? How should the knowledge of this future resurrection impact how you live now (vv. 29–34)?
The final chapter of 1 Corinthians brings Paul’s usual exhortation and greetings, but Paul also challenges believers to help relieve the Jerusalem church financially (see also Rom 15:25–28). From verses 1–4, what should our attitude be toward giving? (See also Matt 6:2–4; Luke 6:38; 2 Cor 9:6–7.)
Scripture attests to the reality of suffering, which won’t end until its final elimination when Christ fully inaugurates his kingdom following his second coming (Rev 21:4). However, the Bible sets suffering in a broader and higher context: it can be used for the will and purposes of a benevolent God. In 2 Corinthians 1, Paul discusses the proper use of God’s comfort during affliction (vv. 1–7). What does Paul say enables believers to comfort others (v. 4)? What does Paul remind the believers his sufferings brought about (vv. 8–11; see also 2 Cor 4:7–10)?
Paul emphasizes that he did not write his letter to hurt the Corinthian church but rather out of love to rebuke the Corinthians toward repentance (2:1–4). Thanking God, he describes the triumphant nature of his ministry (vv. 14–17). To what two groups of people does Paul describe himself as “the fragrance of Christ” (vv. 15–17)? What does his “fragrance” preach to those two groups? Have you suppressed your “fragrance,” and if so, what steps can you take to regain the fragrance of the gospel?
Paul writes that “the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Cor 3:17, NIV). Why is the Holy Spirit essential to help people see and grasp truth—and believe it? According to 2 Corinthians 3:18, character change is intimately connected to spending time in God’s presence. Have you noticed a change in the “degree of glory” you are experiencing compared to the past?
New Testament Reading Plan Week 31: 1 Corinthians 15–2 Corinthians 3