(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
1 Corinthians 15:3-6 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive…
If there is just one question which modern day historians struggle to answer with clarity it is this: How did Christianity begin? When researching the ancient world, it seems clear that the rise of Christianity would not just be improbable, but impossible. With the power and might of the Roman Empire, it wouldn’t make any sense that a small group of lesser educated fisherman, tax collectors, and women could concoct a story about Jesus rising from death to life. Similarly, it wouldn’t make sense that people believed this story without any shred of evidence. As such, modern-day historians who have researched the beginnings of Christianity have come to one overwhelming conclusion: After Jesus’ death, something significant happened. And with eye-witness accounts from hundreds of people, that something is Jesus’ resurrection.
READING & PRAYERS:
1 CORINTHIANS 15:1-58 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What might be some questions you have about the beginnings of Christianity? Where could you go to find answers to those questions?
DIGGING DEEPER: If you had family, friends, neighbors, or colleagues who had questions about the beginnings of Christianity, would you be read to help answer them?
Take a Step: Practice listening to God by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice a day.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I recognize there is a lot about the beginnings of Christianity and a lot about my own faith which remains a mystery. While I know I can never understand everything fully, I do desire to be somebody who can lead others to know you more. This week, continue to draw me closer to You so that I may know You more, and share what I learn of You with others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence.)
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