Introduction
I really struggled to learn how to write proofs in Geometry. I could usually come up with the right answer to the problem, but showing my work, and more to the point, showing my work following the exact 2-column formula Geometry proofs require, stumped me. As a refresher, in the first column of the proofs you list your statements, building one on the other, walking toward your conclusion. In the second column you list factual reasons for the statements being made, with only a few options to choose from, including already-agreed-upon definitions and theorems. In general, geometry proofs are difficult because you’re required to not just know the information but know how you know the information. You must be able to articulate the “why.”
I was reminded of this process while reading through 1 Corinthians 15 because Paul’s writing in this chapter follows a similar flow of, “if this, then that” logic, really leaning into the how and why. Luckily for us, Paul also adds some additional flair through metaphors and literary references, illustrating that logical arguments can only get us so far when considering miracles.
Join us this weekend as we read together to understand what Paul was aiming to prove, what his deviations from a logical framework reveal, and what we miss with a formulaic faith.
Laura Holland and the Teaching Team
Text:
A Confession from John 15 (the message)
Reader: Jesus declared he is the Real Vine and his Father is the Farmer, that every branch that is grape-bearing he prunes back so it will bear even more. That if we live in him -make our home in him just as He does in us, the harvest is sure to be abundant.
Everyone: Jesus we make our home in you and you make yours in us. Make this Church good soil for the Vine to take root and the branches to bear fruit.
Reader: Jesus told us the tree will be judged by the fruit.
Everyone: Give us hands to tend the soil, hearts to endure the pruning and ears to hear the song that gives us hope.
Lord’s Prayer
Christ, who taught us to pray saying:
Our Father who is in heaven, hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come, your will be done,
on earth as in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread and forgive us our sins
as we forgive those who’ve sinned against us.
Lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil.
For yours is the kingdom, and the power,
and the glory forever. Amen.
