ODB: Of First Importance
November 6, 2025
READ: 1 Corinthians 15:3-8
What I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ . . . was raised on the third day. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Thomas de Mahy was one of many aristocrats executed by rioting mobs during the French Revolution of the late eighteenth century. According to one legendary account, upon reading his death warrant, de Mahy responded, “I see that you have made three spelling mistakes.” If true, de Mahy pointedly disregarded a drastically more significant matter—his imminent death.
Today we’re in danger of unintentionally missing a crucial point, one that concerns the body of Christ (the church). There are those who would distort its purpose. Maybe we see the church as a political action committee or as a place to be served. Perhaps we see it as a mere religious institution. The church’s priority, however, has always been the good news of Jesus.
Paul told the believers at Corinth, “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” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). While other things may have an appropriate time and place, the gospel is of first importance.
How can we be agents of God’s good news to a world so saturated with bad news? By asking God to empower us to share this good news whenever possible.
— Bill Crowder
How was the gospel shared with you? What could you do to be prepared to share that good news with others when the opportunity arises?
Gracious God, thank You for bringing me to You through the gospel of Jesus. Please help me share that good news with others.
Source: Our Daily Bread
