1 Corinthians 15:3

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

Study Bible

For I delivered to you
This phrase indicates the act of passing on a message or tradition. The Greek word used here is "παρέδωκα" (paredōka), which means to hand over or deliver. In the context of 1 Corinthians, Paul is emphasizing the importance of the message he received and is now transmitting to the Corinthians. This act of delivering is not merely a casual sharing but a solemn entrustment of a sacred tradition. Historically, this reflects the early Christian practice of oral tradition, where teachings were carefully preserved and passed down.

as of first importance
The phrase underscores the primacy of the message Paul is conveying. The Greek word "πρῶτος" (prōtos) means first in rank or importance. Paul is highlighting that what follows is not just another teaching but the core of the Christian faith. This reflects the early church's understanding of the gospel as the foundation of all Christian doctrine and practice. The emphasis on "first importance" serves as a reminder of the centrality of the gospel in the life of believers.

what I also received
Here, Paul is referring to the tradition he himself received. The Greek word "παρέλαβον" (parelabon) means to receive or take to oneself. This indicates that Paul is not the originator of this message but a faithful steward of what was handed down to him. This reflects the apostolic tradition, where teachings were received from Christ and the apostles and then passed on to others. It underscores the continuity and reliability of the Christian message.

that Christ died
This statement is the heart of the gospel message. The Greek word "Χριστός" (Christos) refers to the Anointed One, the Messiah. The fact that Christ died is central to Christian theology, as it signifies the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the ultimate sacrifice for sin. Historically, the death of Christ is a well-documented event, both in Scripture and in extra-biblical sources, affirming its historical reality.

for our sins
This phrase explains the purpose of Christ's death. The Greek word "ὑπέρ" (hyper) means on behalf of or for the sake of. This indicates substitutionary atonement, where Christ died in place of sinners. The concept of atonement is deeply rooted in the Old Testament sacrificial system, where sacrifices were made to atone for the sins of the people. In the New Testament, Christ is seen as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling and surpassing the old covenant sacrifices.

according to the Scriptures
This phrase emphasizes that Christ's death was in fulfillment of the Scriptures. The Greek word "κατά" (kata) means according to or in conformity with. This indicates that the events of Christ's death were not random but were foretold by the prophets and are in line with God's redemptive plan as revealed in the Old Testament. This serves to validate the truth of the gospel and the faithfulness of God to His promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul is writing to the church in Corinth to address various issues and to affirm the core truths of the Christian faith.

2. Christ (Jesus Christ)
Central to this verse, Jesus is the Messiah who died for the sins of humanity, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies.

3. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and moral challenges, where Paul established a church during his missionary journeys.

4. The Crucifixion
The event of Jesus Christ's death on the cross, which is the focal point of the gospel message Paul is emphasizing.

5. The Scriptures
Refers to the Old Testament prophecies and writings that foretold the coming of the Messiah and His sacrificial death.

Teaching Points

The Primacy of the Gospel
The message of Christ's death for our sins is of "first importance." It is the foundation of Christian faith and should be central in our teaching and evangelism.

The Fulfillment of Prophecy
Christ's death was "according to the Scriptures," affirming the reliability and divine inspiration of the Bible. Believers can trust in God's promises and His plan of salvation.

The Necessity of Atonement
The phrase "for our sins" highlights the necessity of atonement. Recognizing our sinfulness and need for a Savior is crucial for genuine faith.

Receiving and Delivering the Gospel
Paul received this message and faithfully delivered it. Christians are called to both receive the gospel personally and share it with others.

Living in Light of the Gospel
Understanding the significance of Christ's sacrifice should lead to a life of gratitude, obedience, and transformation.

Bible Study Questions

1. What does it mean for the message of Christ's death to be of "first importance" in your life, and how can you prioritize it daily?

2. How does understanding that Christ's death was "according to the Scriptures" strengthen your faith in the reliability of the Bible?

3. In what ways can you actively "deliver" the gospel message to those around you, following Paul's example?

4. Reflect on the significance of Christ dying "for our sins." How does this understanding impact your view of sin and grace?

5. How can you live in a way that reflects the transformative power of the gospel in your daily actions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Isaiah 53
This chapter prophesies the suffering servant, which Christians interpret as a foretelling of Christ's sacrificial death for sins.

Romans 5:8
Paul also writes about Christ's death for sinners, emphasizing God's love demonstrated through this act.

Galatians 1:4
Paul reiterates that Christ gave Himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age.

1 Peter 2:24
Peter speaks of Christ bearing our sins in His body on the cross, echoing the message of atonement.