1 Corinthians 15:31
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 15:31
31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 15 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, worship, love. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-58: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it defends the resurrection as central to Christian faith. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 15:31
31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.
Analysis
I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord (καθ' ἡμέραν ἀποθνῄσκω, νὴ τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν, ἀδελφοί, ἣν ἔχω ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ τῷ κυρίῳ ἡμῶν)—The phrase nē tēn hymeteran kauchēsin (νὴ τὴν ὑμετέραν καύχησιν) is an oath formula, "I swear by your boasting/rejoicing." Paul takes an oath by his legitimate pride in the Corinthian church—they are his kauchēsis (καύχησις, "boast, pride"), evidence his ministry bears fruit (2 Corinthians 1:14, Philippians 2:16).
I die daily (καθ' ἡμέραν ἀποθνῄσκω)—The phrase kath' hēmeran apothnēskō means daily facing death threat, not mere self-denial. Paul's apostolic ministry meant continual mortal danger. He lived as a condemned man awaiting execution—which finally came circa AD 67 under Nero. Only resurrection hope makes such a life rational and joyful.
Historical Context
Paul's life was precarious from Damascus (Acts 9:23-25) through his execution in Rome. Five times he received 39 lashes, three beatings with rods, one stoning (2 Corinthians 11:24-25). He wrote 1 Corinthians from Ephesus, where silversmiths later rioted, threatening his life (Acts 19). 'I die daily' was literal reality, not hyperbole.
Reflection
- What does it mean to 'die daily' in modern contexts where physical martyrdom is less common?
- How does Paul's pride in the Corinthian church motivate his suffering—what does this teach about pastoral ministry?
- Why would Paul endure daily death-threats if resurrection were false—what does this prove?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Philippians 3:3
- References Christ: 2 Corinthians 11:23
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 11:7, Acts 20:23, Romans 8:36, 1 Thessalonians 3:9