Quiet Table Guide: April 5-11

Scripture for the week: 1 Corinthians 15:12–28

But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.

But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him. Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. For he “has put everything under his feet.” Now when it says that “everything” has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ. When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all.

1. Ready Your Heart

Begin with a moment of silence or a short prayer, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide your time together.

2. Read

Slowly read this week’s passage. (Consider reading it out loud or in a different translation each day.)

3. Reflect

What word, phrase, or image stands out to you today? What in your life might the Holy Spirit be drawing your attention to?

4. Respond

How can you allow this word to shape your interactions, decisions, or perspective today?

5. Receive

Spend a few moments in stillness, surrendering your thoughts, plans, and actions to God and resting in the presence of Jesus.

6. Practice: Living in the new World Order

If you have been living as though death has the final word, whether that is the death of a relationship, a dream, or a season of your life, bring it to Jesus this week. Name it plainly. Then ask: what would it look like to live as though that is not the end of the story?

If you find yourself defaulting to complaint or cynicism, notice it this week without judgment. Ask: what would a resurrection person say in this moment? Practice saying that instead, even once.

If grief is close, let the promise of the fifth reversal sit with you. The dead in Christ are not gone. They are held. Bring the name of someone you have lost before Jesus and rest there.

If you are not yet sure what you believe, you don't have to resolve it this week. But take Paul's argument seriously. Follow it. Feel the weight of what collapses without the resurrection. And stay open to the announcement.

If you believe it, let one person know this week. Not an argument. Just the announcement. He is risen.