I Corinthians 15:29
Now if there is no Resurrection, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them?
This is a very confusing passage. After researching quite a few resources, I must agree with Wikipedia that, "The meaning of that phrase is an open question among scholars."
I think that the most reasonable explanation is that the city of Corinth was a major crossroads of many other regions and faiths, and the Greek that is used here translates as, "Why are they baptized for the dead?" referring to some other cult the Corinthians were familiar with. Baptizing for the dead has never been a Judeo-Christian concept at all, let alone a practice, considering the view of personal responsibility taught throughout Scripture. But even the Pagans that have this practice are relying on the fact of Resurrection, giving secular validity to this teaching.
So we will all rise after we die, either to stand before Christ's Seat of Judgment for rewards, or to face the Great White Throne Judgment to determine the depth of suffering to endure through eternity.
Even so, come, Lord Jesus!
