1 Corinthians 15:1

Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, and in which you stand firm.

Study Bible

Now, brothers
The term "brothers" (Greek: ἀδελφοί, adelphoi) is a term of endearment and unity, indicating the familial bond among believers. In the early church, this term was inclusive of both men and women, emphasizing the spiritual kinship that transcends biological ties. Paul uses this address to remind the Corinthian believers of their shared identity in Christ, fostering a sense of community and mutual responsibility. Historically, the early Christian communities were often small and faced external pressures, making this sense of brotherhood crucial for their perseverance and growth.

I want to remind you
The phrase "I want to remind you" (Greek: γνωρίζω, gnōrizō) suggests a deliberate act of bringing to memory something previously known. Paul is not introducing new doctrine but reinforcing foundational truths. This act of reminding is essential in the Christian life, as believers are prone to forgetfulness amidst life's distractions. The historical context of Corinth, a bustling and morally complex city, made it easy for the church to lose sight of core gospel truths, necessitating Paul's reminder.

of the gospel
The "gospel" (Greek: εὐαγγέλιον, euangelion) is the good news of Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. This message is central to Christian faith and practice, encapsulating God's redemptive plan for humanity. In the Greco-Roman world, "gospel" was a term used for proclamations of victory or the birth of an emperor, but Paul redefines it as the ultimate victory over sin and death through Christ. The gospel is not merely a message but the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).

I preached to you
The act of preaching (Greek: κηρύσσω, kēryssō) involves proclaiming or heralding a message with authority. Paul emphasizes that the gospel he delivered was not of human origin but divinely revealed. His preaching was not just informative but transformative, intended to bring about a response of faith and obedience. In the historical context, Corinth was a city of diverse philosophies and religions, making Paul's proclamation of the gospel a bold and counter-cultural act.

which you received
The word "received" (Greek: παραλαμβάνω, paralambanō) indicates an active acceptance and appropriation of the gospel message. It implies more than mere intellectual assent; it involves embracing the truth of the gospel and allowing it to shape one's life. The Corinthian believers' reception of the gospel marked the beginning of their new life in Christ, a transformative process that set them apart from their previous pagan practices.

and in which you stand
To "stand" (Greek: ἵστημι, histēmi) conveys the idea of stability and perseverance. The gospel is not only the foundation of the Christian faith but also the sustaining power that enables believers to remain steadfast amidst trials and temptations. In the context of Corinth, where the church faced internal divisions and external pressures, standing firm in the gospel was crucial for maintaining unity and integrity. This phrase underscores the ongoing nature of the Christian journey, rooted in the unchanging truth of the gospel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth. He is reminding them of the gospel he preached, emphasizing its foundational importance.

2. The Church in Corinth
The recipients of the letter, the Corinthian church was a diverse and often troubled congregation in a major Greek city known for its immorality and idolatry.

3. The Gospel
The central message of Christianity, which Paul preached. It is the good news of Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins.

Teaching Points

The Importance of Remembrance
Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians of the gospel, indicating the necessity of continually recalling and reaffirming the foundational truths of our faith.

The Gospel as a Firm Foundation
The phrase "in which you stand firm" suggests stability and security in the gospel. Believers are called to remain steadfast in their faith amidst challenges.

Receiving the Gospel
The act of receiving the gospel is not passive; it involves an active acceptance and commitment to the truth of Christ's work.

The Role of Preaching
Paul highlights the importance of preaching in the transmission of the gospel, emphasizing the need for faithful proclamation of God's word.

Living Out the Gospel
Standing firm in the gospel implies living in a manner consistent with its truths, impacting every aspect of a believer's life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Paul's reminder of the gospel in 1 Corinthians 15:1 challenge us to prioritize the message of Christ in our daily lives?

2. In what ways can we ensure that we are "standing firm" in the gospel, especially when faced with cultural pressures and personal trials?

3. How does the act of receiving the gospel, as mentioned in this verse, influence our understanding of faith and discipleship?

4. What role does the preaching of the gospel play in your spiritual growth, and how can you support or participate in this ministry?

5. Reflect on a time when recalling the foundational truths of the gospel helped you navigate a difficult situation. How can this practice be incorporated into your regular spiritual discipline?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 1:16
Paul speaks of the gospel as the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, highlighting its transformative power.

Galatians 1:11-12
Paul emphasizes that the gospel he preached was not of human origin but received through a revelation of Jesus Christ, underscoring its divine authority.

1 Thessalonians 2:13
Paul commends the Thessalonians for receiving the word of God, not as the word of men, but as it truly is, the word of God, which is at work in believers.