1 Corinthians 15:30
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 15:30
30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 15 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, sacrifice, truth. 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 15:30
30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?
Analysis
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).
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.
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?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 6:9