What does 1 Corinthians 15:31 mean?
I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 1 Corinthians 15:31
Explanation
The verse 1 Corinthians 15:31, which says “I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily,” is written by the Apostle Paul as part of a letter to the early Christian church in Corinth. The literal meaning of this verse can be interpreted as Paul stating that he faces death every day. He is not referring to a physical death, but rather to a metaphorical death to his own desires and the sufferings he endures as a result of his apostolic ministry. On a deeper level, this statement is about the Christian concept of dying to self, a daily sacrifice of one’s own life for the sake of Christ and the gospel. It reflects the continual process of self-denial and the struggle against sin.
Historical Context
This verse is part of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, written around 53-54 A.D., a time when the early Christians were facing persecution. The city of Corinth was a major commercial center in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, diverse population, and moral laxity. The church in Corinth was troubled by internal divisions and moral issues. In this context, Paul’s affirmation of “dying daily” is likely a reference to the constant danger he faced, both from external opposition and from the spiritual struggles inherent in leading a diverse and often contentious Christian community.
Theological Insights
Different theological viewpoints have examined this verse with varied interpretations. From an evangelical perspective, the verse is seen as a call to personal holiness and self-sacrifice in the service of Christ. In Catholic theology, this daily dying is aligned with the concept of mortification, a practice of self-denial to overcome sin and grow in virtue. Liberation theology might interpret this as reminding Christians to stand in solidarity with the oppressed, ‘dying’ to personal comforts for social justice. The Reformed tradition emphasizes the doctrine of sanctification, seeing this as part of the continual process of being made holy through the work of the Holy Spirit.
Practical Applications
The teachings of this verse can be applied in daily life by embracing a lifestyle of humility and self-denial. It encourages believers to forego selfish desires and comforts for the sake of serving others and advancing the cause of the gospel. Christians might find inspiration in this verse to volunteer their time, donate resources, or simply practice patience and kindness in challenging circumstances. It also speaks to the personal spiritual discipline required to live out one’s faith authentically in the face of external and internal challenges.
Cross-References
- Luke 9:23 – “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.”
- Romans 8:36 – “As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”
- 2 Corinthians 4:10-11 – “Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.”
- Galatians 2:20 – “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”
Language Study
In the original Greek, the phrase “I die daily” is “ἀποθνήσκω καθ’ ἡμέραν.” The verb “ἀποθνήσκω” (apothnesko) means to die or to be subject to death, indicating a continuous action when combined with “καθ’ ἡμέραν” (kath’ hēmeran), which literally means “every day.” This speaks to an ongoing process rather than a one-time event. The intensity of Paul’s statement is also emphasized by the word “protest” or “ὑμῶν καύχημα” (humōn kauchēma), which can mean boast or rejoicing, suggesting that Paul’s endurance of daily dying is cause for commendation and celebration in Christ.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
Comparisons can be drawn between Paul’s concept of “dying daily” and the idea of asceticism found in other religious traditions, such as Buddhism’s emphasis on detachment from desires or Hinduism’s practice of self-discipline and renunciation. While differing in context and specifics, these practices similarly call for an individual to control or forsake personal wants to achieve a greater spiritual or communal goal.
Scientific Perspectives
Scientifically, the process of self-denial and sacrifice for the sake of a group benefit can be seen through the lens of evolutionary biology. Altruistic behavior, where an individual endures a cost to help others, can be beneficial for the survival of a species or community. However, Paul’s statement of “I die daily” transcends biological explanations, entering the realm of voluntary personal sacrifice rooted in faith and spiritual convictions, which lies beyond the scope of scientific measurement.
Commentaries
Various biblical scholars and commentators have dissected 1 Corinthians 15:31. Some, like John Calvin, saw it as evidence of Paul’s self-denial and commitment to his mission despite hardships. Matthew Henry’s commentary highlights the continuous danger the apostle was under and his perseverance through faith. The Expositor’s Greek Testament accentuates the voluntary nature of Paul’s suffering. Contemporary scholars might focus on the way this personal commitment to daily death symbolizes the radical transformation that Christian conversion calls for, as one moves from serving self to serving Christ and others.
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