1 Corinthians 15:32, I Fought With Beasts

1 Corinthians 15:32 If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.

The opposition and severe persecution which came to him in Ephesus as likened to being thrown into a den of wild beasts and be torn apart. These beasts are a reference to evil men who sought to take his life and thwart the work of the gospel.

If Jesus is not risen from the dead, he would not have the strength to so boldly preach the gospel and endure such fierce treatment from wicked men. If dying is the end of a man, then the Apostle Paul concluded that we should all enjoy this life to the full for tomorrow, we perish into nothing. But the truth is that after death comes the judgment of God. Every man has to give an account of his life before God. None can escape.

He knows that if he serves His Master well, there will be a righteous man’s reward awaiting him. As such, he was willing to boldly labour even alone. May his example strengthen us to serve Him with renewed strength. Amen.