1 Corinthians 15:32
If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.
1 Corinthians 15:32
Paul uses a provocative image—fighting with beasts at Ephesus—to illustrate the seriousness of his ministry and the stakes involved if the dead do not rise. The “beasts” could symbolize external dangers or adversaries, or metaphorically reflect his encounters with hostile forces. The rhetorical question—“what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not?”—exposes the emptiness of living for temporary pleasures, captured in the phrase, “let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die.” It’s a call to faithful, intentional living in light of the resurrection, not a license to hedonism.
The resurrection shapes ethics: if there is no life beyond, the present life becomes the only measure of value, leading to short-sighted living. The contrast between “eat and drink” and “the dead rise” invites readers to orient themselves toward eternity. The verse reinforces the reality that Christian hope includes moral courage, endurance, and purposeful living under God’s reign.
Apply this by choosing daily practices that reflect eternal perspective. In moments of temptation to indulge in excess, pause and ask how choices will appear in light of the resurrection. In ministry and work, pursue steadiness and service rather than reckless risk without purpose. If you face pressure to abandon your convictions, remember that your future hope anchors present decisions. Use this as motivation to invest in lasting, meaningful activities—relationships that endure, investments that honor God, and ministries that build up others.
Cross-References: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Romans 14:7-9; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; Titus 2:11-14; Colossians 3:1-4