1 Corinthians 15:19‭-‬20 - Words For Doubts (Bible Journal)

An audio version of this journal read by me can be heard here: https://audiomack.com/roses311sublime/song/15135537

“And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world. But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died (1 Corinthians 15:19‭-‬20 NLT).”

“Christianity is the only religion that places the entire weight of its credibility on a singular event, the resurrection, which is a supernatural miracle. If Christ had not been raised, then Christianity would be completely discredited and unworthy of even a moment’s consideration, or as the apostle Paul stated, ‘And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile (1 Corinthians 15:17).’”

- Rice Broocks, from “Man, Myth, Messiah: Answering History’s Greatest Question”

“Did Jesus rise from the dead or not? That is the central question in life. If Jesus didn’t rise from the dead, every church on the planet might as well close its doors. And every Christian should go find something else to do. If Jesus is dead, hope is dead. But if Jesus is alive, then hope is alive, too. If the resurrection is true, then every hurt and pain and struggle in our lives gets remixed.”

- Connect Christian Church (https://www.connect.cc)

1 Corinthians 15:12-20 has served as life verses for me when facing doubts, and the words above from Rice Broocks and Connect Christian Church have supplemented the Scripture for me. Ever since I first read 1 Corinthians 15:12-20, I have found comfort when doubts about my faith hit. I love how Paul didn’t ignore the exact same doubts I struggle with, but directly addressed them, gave a worse case scenario, then ultimately reaffirmed his belief in Jesus and committed to Him. Thank You Lord for the words You gave Paul, and Thank You for the supplemental words that You gave Rice Broocks and Connect Christian Church. Thank You for sending these faith role models to help me when I doubt. Please help me utilize these words and Your other lessons to become a better believer. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.