1 Corinthians 15:58
What is written? (ESV)
Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.
What does it say?
Therefore my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, be diligent, steady, constantly exceling in the Lord’s work, remaining confident that your effort isn’t without purpose.
What is its immediate context?
Paul is concluding his great defense of the resurrection of Christ before closing his first letter to the church in Corinth. Thanks should be given to God (vs 57) for this gift which makes our victory possible. Paul immediately transitions to let them know about the effort underway among other brethern for the collection for the saints in need back in Judea, a work they would engage in for the next year (2 Corinthians 8:10).
How 1 Corinthians 15:58 is applied across Bible answers
How are works defined in the Bible?
Paul encourages the Corinthians to be diligent in their work/labor and remain faithful.
Otherwise, their effort or "labor" (vs 57) could be "in vain". What's at jeopardy here - what could be "in vain" - is clear from verse 57. It's their "victory" (e.g. salvation). God's grace has made it possible (specifically here because of Jesus conquering death), but the Corinthians would have to work at remaining faithful.
