Today’s Manna!
1 Corinthians 15:3-4
1 Corinthians 15:3-4 (NIV) says, “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”
In these verses, Paul succinctly presents the core of the Christian faith: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that this message is of “first importance,” highlighting its foundational significance for believers. The gospel is not merely a set of doctrines but the life-transforming truth of Christ’s sacrifice and victory over death.
Paul’s declaration underscores the fulfillment of prophecy—”according to the Scriptures”—affirming that Christ’s work was part of God’s divine plan from the beginning. The death of Jesus was a sacrificial atonement for our sins, and His resurrection is the cornerstone of our hope and faith, assuring us of eternal life and victory over sin.
An inspiring example of the transformative power of the gospel is found in the life of the Apostle Peter. Before Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter, out of fear, denied knowing Jesus three times (Matthew 26:69-75). However, after the resurrection, Peter encountered the risen Christ, who reinstated him with a threefold affirmation of love and commission to feed His sheep (John 21:15-17).
This encounter transformed Peter from a fearful disciple into a bold apostle. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, Peter preached the gospel with conviction, leading thousands to faith in Christ on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41). His life exemplifies the radical change that occurs when one embraces the death and resurrection of Jesus as the central truth of their life.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to hold fast to the truth of His death, burial, and resurrection. May this gospel message transform our hearts and lives, just as it did for Peter and countless others. Empower us to share this message with boldness and love, so that others may come to know the saving grace of Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.