1 Corinthians 15:30
And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?
Original Language Analysis
τί
why
G5101
τί
why
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
1 of 6
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 6
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Historical Context
Paul's missionary career was life-threatening catalog: beaten with rods three times, stoned once, shipwrecked three times, in danger from bandits, rivers, false brothers, constant travel through hostile territory (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). Written from Ephesus, where Paul later faced deadly peril (2 Corinthians 1:8-9), possibly the riot of Acts 19:23-41.
Questions for Reflection
- How does resurrection hope make Christian suffering and martyrdom rational rather than foolish?
- What 'jeopardies' do Christians face today that only make sense if resurrection is true?
- How should resurrection certainty shape risk-taking for the gospel in hostile environments?
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Analysis & Commentary
And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? (τί καὶ ἡμεῖς κινδυνεύομεν πᾶσαν ὥραν;)—Paul shifts from "they" (v. 29) to "we"—now he's speaking of apostolic experience. The verb kindyneuomen (κινδυνεύομεν, "we are in danger") indicates constant peril. The phrase pasan hōran (πᾶσαν ὥραν, "every hour") emphasizes unrelenting danger—not occasional persecution but daily threat.
This begins Paul's personal testimony (vv. 30-32) demonstrating resurrection's practical implications. Why endure constant danger if death ends all? Apostolic suffering only makes sense if resurrection vindicates it. Paul's logic: If no resurrection, I'm a fool risking my life for nothing. But since resurrection is certain, present suffering is light compared to eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:17).