ἐσμέν). If those who have died are without a future other than one described in terms of “perishing,” then the Corinthians who believe there is no resurrection must understand that their present faith is without significance. Paul has given all the reasons for this in the last few verses. Thus, in yet another conditional clause Paul develops his line of reasoning a step further. A periphrastic perfect is used (ἠλπικότες ἐσμὲν) with intensifying force, “we are (even now) those who hope.”7 It is difficult