◄ 1 Corinthians 15 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The Resurrection of Christ 1Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, and in which you stand firm. 2By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. 3For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that He appeared to Cephasa and then to the Twelve. 6After that, He appeared to more than five hundred brothers at once, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7Then He appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8And last of all He appeared to me also, as to one of untimely birth. 9For I am the least of the apostles and am unworthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. 11Whether, then, it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed. The Resurrection of the Dead 12But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith. 15In that case, we are also exposed as false witnesses about God. For we have testified about God that He raised Christ from the dead, but He did not raise Him if in fact the dead are not raised. 16For if the dead are not raised, then not even Christ has been raised. 17And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. 18Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19If our hope in Christ is for this life alone, we are to be pitied more than all men. The Order of Resurrection 20But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. 22For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. 23But each in his own turn: Christ the firstfruits; then at His coming, those who belong to Him. 24Then the end will come, when He hands over the kingdom to God the Father after He has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power. 25For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 27For “God has put everything under His feet.”b Now when it says that everything has been put under Him, this clearly does not include the One who put everything under Him. 28And when all things have been subjected to Him, then the Son Himself will be made subject to Him who put all things under Him, so that God may be all in all. 29If these things are not so, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them? 30And why do we endanger ourselves every hour? 31I face death every day, brothers, as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our Lord. 32If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus for human motives, what did I gain? If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.”c 33Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good character.”d 34Sober up as you ought, and stop sinning; for some of you are ignorant of God. I say this to your shame. The Resurrection Body 35But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?” 36You fool! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. 37And what you sow is not the body that will be, but just a seed, perhaps of wheat or something else. 38But God gives it a body as He has designed, and to each kind of seed He gives its own body. 39Not all flesh is the same: Men have one kind of flesh, animals have another, birds another, and fish another. 40There are also heavenly bodies and earthly bodies. But the splendor of the heavenly bodies is of one degree, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is of another. 41The sun has one degree of splendor, the moon another, and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor. 42So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable. 43It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. 44It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45So it is written: “The first man Adam became a living being”;e the last Adam a life-giving spirit. 46The spiritual, however, was not first, but the natural, and then the spiritual. 47The first man was of the dust of the earth, the second man from heaven. 48As was the earthly man, so also are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also are those who are of heaven. 49And just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, so also shall we bear the likeness of the heavenly man. Where, O Death, Is Your Victory? (Hosea 13:9–14) 50Now I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. 51Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed— 52in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. 53For the perishable must be clothedf with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. 54When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable and the mortal with immortality,g then the saying that is written will come to pass: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”h 55“Where, O Death, is your victory? Where, O Death, is your sting?”i 56The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! 58Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast and immovable. Always excel in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain. Footnotes: 5 a That is, Peter 27 b Psalm 8:6 32 c Isaiah 22:13 33 d Probably a quote from the Greek comedy Thais by Menander 45 e Genesis 2:7 53 f Or clothe itself 54 g WH does not include and the mortal with immortality. 54 h Isaiah 25:8 55 i Hosea 13:14 (see also LXX); BYZ and TR “Where, O Death, is your sting? Where, O Hades, is your victory?” Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Corinthians 15 Summary Resurrection Verses 1–11 – The Gospel of the Resurrection Paul reminds the Corinthians of the good news he first preached: “that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures” (vv. 3–4). He lists eyewitnesses—Cephas, the Twelve, over five hundred believers, James, all the apostles, and finally himself—underscoring that the resurrection is historical fact and the core of saving faith. Verses 12–19 – Consequences if Christ Did Not Rise Some in Corinth claim there is no resurrection of the dead. Paul shows how that idea unravels everything: if the dead are not raised, Christ is not raised; preaching is useless; faith is empty; witnesses are liars; believers are still in their sins; the dead in Christ are lost; and Christians are pitiable (vv. 13–19). Verses 20–28 – Christ the Firstfruits and the Final Victory “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (v. 20). As death came through Adam, resurrection comes through Christ. At His return, those who belong to Him will be raised. Then He will hand the kingdom to the Father after destroying every enemy, including death itself, so “God may be all in all” (v. 28). Verses 29–34 – Practical Implications of Resurrection Paul challenges puzzling practices (“baptized for the dead”) and highlights daily dangers he faces. If the dead are not raised, why risk life? “Bad company corrupts good character” (v. 33); the Corinthians must sober up and stop sinning. Verses 35–49 – The Nature of the Resurrection Body Paul answers, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body?” Using seeds, flesh, heavenly bodies, and Adam vs. Christ, he shows continuity and transformation: the mortal body is sown perishable, raised imperishable; sown in dishonor, raised in glory; sown in weakness, raised in power; sown a natural body, raised a spiritual body (vv. 42–44). Verses 50–58 – Victory over Death, Call to Stand Firm “Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God” (v. 50). At the last trumpet, living believers will be changed in “the twinkling of an eye,” and the dead will be raised imperishable. Then Isaiah 25:8 and Hosea 13:14 ring true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory… Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (vv. 54–57). Therefore, believers are to be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the Lord’s work, knowing it is never in vain (v. 58). 1 Corinthians 15, one of the most profound chapters in the New Testament, presents Paul's defense of the resurrection of Jesus and its implications for believers. He asserts the importance of the resurrection as central to the Christian faith and the future hope of believers. Historical Setting Corinth was a bustling Greek port filled with commerce, idol temples, and philosophical schools. Many converts in Paul’s church still carried Greek ideas that dismissed bodily resurrection, favoring the notion that only the soul matters. First Corinthians, likely written around AD 55 from Ephesus (Acts 19:1-22), addresses these cultural challenges head-on. Paul’s lengthy defense shows how serious the issue was: to deny bodily resurrection undermines the entire gospel. The Resurrection Gospel (15:1-11) • Paul reminds them he delivered what he had “received” (v. 3), language that points to an early, fixed creed circulating within just a few years of Jesus’ death (cf. Galatians 1:18-19). • Old Testament anticipation: Isaiah 53 (suffering Messiah), Psalm 16:10 (“You will not abandon my soul to Sheol”), Hosea 6:2 (“After two days He will revive us; on the third day He will raise us up”). • Eyewitness list buttresses faith (Luke 24; John 20-21; Acts 9): hundreds alive at the time could corroborate. If Christ Has Not Been Raised (15:12-19) • Paul uses logical steps: no resurrection → Christ not raised → faith futile. The same chain appears in Romans 4:25, where Jesus is “raised for our justification.” • Sin’s penalty (Romans 6:23) would still loom; hope of forgiveness rests on an empty tomb (Acts 2:24). Christ the Firstfruits (15:20-28) • “Firstfruits” recalls Leviticus 23:9-14, where the first sheaf guaranteed the full harvest. Jesus’ rising guarantees ours. • Adam/Christ parallel also in Romans 5:12-21. Adam brought death; Jesus, life (Genesis 3 vs. John 11:25). • Final subjection of all powers echoes Psalm 8:6 and 110:1. Revelation 20:14 pictures the ultimate defeat of death in the lake of fire. Baptized for the Dead? (15:29) • Paul does not endorse a ritual; he simply exposes inconsistency. If some perform proxy baptism for dead believers (a local custom, otherwise absent in Scripture), why deny the very resurrection that presumably motivated it? • Scripture elsewhere links baptism to identification with Christ’s death and resurrection for the living (Romans 6:3-5; Colossians 2:12). Daily Danger and Motivation (15:30-34) • Paul faces “wild beasts” in Ephesus (v. 32)—likely hostile crowds (Acts 19:23-41). His willingness makes sense only if resurrection is real. • “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die” quotes Isaiah 22:13—Judah’s faithless slogan during crisis—showing the despair that follows disbelief. • Friendship shapes belief: “Bad company corrupts good character” is a Greek proverb; Scripture parallels include Proverbs 13:20. Resurrection Body Explained (15:35-49) • Seed analogy: what dies is transformed. Jesus used similar imagery in John 12:24. • Heavenly vs. earthly bodies points to differing glories (sun, moon, stars). • Natural (from Adam) vs. spiritual (from Christ) doesn’t mean non-physical; it means empowered by the Spirit. Luke 24:39 shows Jesus eating fish post-resurrection—tangible, yet glorified. • Bearing “the image of the heavenly” echoes Genesis 1:26 (image of God) restored and completed. Mystery of Transformation (15:50-57) • “Mystery” means truth now revealed: instant transformation of living believers at Christ’s return (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). • The trumpet links with Numbers 10:1-10 (assembly call) and Matthew 24:31. • Isaiah 25:8 and Hosea 13:14 promise death’s defeat; Paul shows fulfillment in Christ. • Victory anthem fuels courage: Hebrews 2:14-15 says Jesus freed us from the fear of death. Therefore, Stand Firm (15:58) • Steadfast labor is never wasted, because resurrection guarantees that every act for Christ echoes into eternity (Matthew 6:19-21; Galatians 6:9). • “Immovable” parallels Colossians 1:23, urging believers not to drift. Archaeological and Cultural Insights • Corinth’s Temple of Asklepios housed clay body-part offerings for healing—evidence of Greek dualism and longing for bodily wholeness. Paul’s teaching contrasted sharply: wholeness comes through resurrection, not mystical cures. • Roman epitaphs often read, “I was not, I am not, I care not.” Such fatalism colors the culture Paul challenges. • Early Christian graves around Jerusalem (first-century ossuaries) bear inscriptions like “Jesus may He rise,” reflecting bodily hope. Old Testament Background • Daniel 12:2 speaks of many who “sleep in the dust” awakening. • Job 19:25-26 anticipates seeing God “in my flesh.” • Ezekiel 37’s valley of dry bones pictures national and personal revival under God’s breath. These passages feed Paul’s certainty. Connections to the Gospels and Acts • All four Gospels record the empty tomb (Matthew 28; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 20). • Acts 2:32, 17:31, 26:23 show apostolic preaching centered on resurrection. Paul’s own sermons echo 1 Corinthians 15 throughout. Practical Takeaways Today • The resurrection is historical, not mythical; faith rests on fact. • Hope in bodily renewal guards against despair, addictions, and moral drift. • Suffering and sacrifice gain meaning; nothing done for Christ is pointless. • The promised transformation fosters perseverance and joyful service until He returns. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 6:4 We were therefore buried with Him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may walk in newness of life. Philippians 3:10-11 I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to Him in His death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead. 1 Thessalonians 4:14 For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, we also believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in Him. Teaching Points The Gospel Foundation Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians of the gospel he preached, which they received and on which they stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you (1 Corinthians 15:2). The resurrection is central to the gospel message. Christ's Resurrection Paul emphasizes the historical reality of Christ's resurrection, listing witnesses including Peter, the Twelve, and over five hundred others (1 Corinthians 15:5-8). This underscores the resurrection as a verifiable event. The Importance of the Resurrection Paul argues that if Christ has not been raised, our preaching and faith are in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14). The resurrection is essential for the validity of the Christian faith. The Order of Resurrection Paul explains the order of resurrection: Christ as the firstfruits, then those who belong to Him at His coming (1 Corinthians 15:23). This assures believers of their future resurrection. Victory Over Death The chapter culminates in the triumphant declaration that death has been swallowed up in victory through Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). This victory gives believers hope and assurance. Practical Applications Stand Firm in Faith Just as Paul exhorts the Corinthians, we are called to stand firm and let nothing move us, knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). Live with Hope The resurrection assures us of eternal life. Let this hope influence how we live daily, with an eternal perspective. Proclaim the Gospel Understanding the centrality of the resurrection should motivate us to share the gospel with others, emphasizing the hope and victory found in Christ. People 1. Christ (Christos) Referred to as the first to rise from the dead, the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep (1 Corinthians 15:20). The term "Christ" is derived from the Greek "Christos," meaning "Anointed One," equivalent to the Hebrew "Messiah." 2. Cephas (Kephas) Mentioned as the first individual to whom Christ appeared after His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5). "Cephas" is the Aramaic name for Peter, meaning "rock." 3. The Twelve Refers to the group of Jesus' closest disciples, also known as the apostles, to whom Christ appeared after His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5). The term "Twelve" signifies the foundational leaders of the early Church. 4. More than five hundred brothers at once A large group of believers who witnessed the resurrected Christ simultaneously (1 Corinthians 15:6). This collective appearance serves as a significant testimony to the resurrection. 5. James (Iakobos) Identified as one of the individuals to whom Christ appeared post-resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:7). James is traditionally understood to be the brother of Jesus and a leader in the Jerusalem church. 6. All the apostles Refers to the broader group of apostles beyond the original Twelve, to whom Christ appeared (1 Corinthians 15:7). The term "apostles" comes from the Greek "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent." 7. Paul (Paulos) The author of 1 Corinthians, who describes himself as the last to see the risen Christ, "as to one abnormally born" (1 Corinthians 15:8). "Paul" is derived from the Latin "Paulus," meaning "small" or "humble." Places 1. Jerusalem While not explicitly mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15, Jerusalem is implicitly referenced as the place where Christ was crucified and resurrected. This is foundational to the chapter's discussion on the resurrection. The Greek term "Ἱεροσόλυμα" (Hierosolyma) is used elsewhere in the New Testament to refer to Jerusalem. 2. Galilee Similar to Jerusalem, Galilee is not directly mentioned in 1 Corinthians 15, but it is the region where Jesus appeared to many of His disciples after His resurrection, as noted in the Gospels. This is relevant to the witnesses Paul refers to in the chapter. 3. Corinth Although not mentioned in the chapter, Corinth is the city where the recipients of the letter, the Corinthians, are located. Understanding the context of Corinth helps in comprehending the issues Paul addresses, including the resurrection. 1 Corinthians 15 does not explicitly mention many geographical locations, as its focus is more on the theological implications of the resurrection. However, understanding the broader biblical context and the places associated with the resurrection narrative can enrich the interpretation of the chapter. Events 1. The Gospel Reminder (1 Corinthians 15:1-2) Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached to them, which they received and in which they stand. This gospel is the means of their salvation, provided they hold firmly to the word he preached. 2. Christ's Death and Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) Paul delivers what he received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, was buried, and was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. The Greek term "ἐγείρω" (egeirō) is used for "raised," emphasizing the action of God in raising Christ. 3. Witnesses of the Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5-8) Paul lists those who witnessed the resurrected Christ: Cephas (Peter), the Twelve, over five hundred brothers at once, James, all the apostles, and lastly, Paul himself. The term "ὤφθη" (ōphthē) is used for "appeared," indicating a physical appearance. 4. Paul's Apostolic Authority (1 Corinthians 15:9-11) Paul acknowledges his unworthiness to be called an apostle due to his persecution of the church but emphasizes that by the grace of God, he is what he is, and his labor was not in vain. 5. The Importance of the Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:12-19) Paul argues that if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised, making their faith futile and leaving them in their sins. The Greek word "ἀνάστασις" (anastasis) is central here, meaning "resurrection." 6. Christ the Firstfruits (1 Corinthians 15:20-23) Christ is described as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, indicating the first of a greater harvest. The term "ἀπαρχή" (aparchē) is used for "firstfruits," signifying the first portion of a sacrifice. 7. The Order of Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:24-28) Paul outlines the order: Christ the firstfruits, then at His coming, those who belong to Him. He describes the end when Christ hands over the kingdom to God the Father after destroying all dominion, authority, and power. 8. The Defeat of Death (1 Corinthians 15:26-28) The last enemy to be destroyed is death. Paul emphasizes that God has put everything under Christ's feet, but when everything is subjected to Him, the Son will also be subject to God. 9. The Practice of Baptism for the Dead (1 Corinthians 15:29) Paul references the practice of being baptized for the dead, questioning its purpose if the dead are not raised at all. 10. Paul's Suffering and Sacrifice (1 Corinthians 15:30-32) Paul speaks of the dangers he faces daily and his boasting in Christ Jesus, questioning the point of his suffering if the dead are not raised. 11. The Call to Righteousness (1 Corinthians 15:33-34) Paul warns against being misled by bad company and calls the Corinthians to sober up and stop sinning, as some have no knowledge of God. 12. The Nature of the Resurrection Body (1 Corinthians 15:35-49) Paul explains the resurrection body using analogies of seeds and different kinds of flesh, emphasizing that the perishable must put on the imperishable. 13. The Mystery of the Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:50-57) Paul reveals a mystery: not all will sleep, but all will be changed in a moment, at the last trumpet. The perishable will be clothed with the imperishable, and death will be swallowed up in victory. 14. The Victory through Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57) Paul gives thanks to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 15. Exhortation to Steadfastness (1 Corinthians 15:58) Paul concludes by urging the Corinthians to stand firm, let nothing move them, and always give themselves fully to the work of the Lord, knowing their labor is not in vain. Lessons from 1 Corinthians 15 1. The Foundation of the Gospel 1 Corinthians 15:3-4 reminds us of the core message of our faith: "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures." This passage underscores the Gospel's foundation—Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It's a reminder that our faith is not built on shifting sands but on the solid rock of Jesus' victory over sin and death. 2. The Power of the Resurrection The resurrection is not just a historical event; it's the very power that fuels our faith. As Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15:14, "And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is worthless, and so is your faith." The resurrection validates everything Jesus taught and did. It assures us that our faith is not in vain and that we serve a living Savior who conquered the grave. 3. Witnesses to the Truth Paul emphasizes the importance of eyewitnesses in 1 Corinthians 15:5-8, where he lists those who saw the risen Christ, including Peter, the twelve, and over five hundred others. This testimony strengthens our confidence in the truth of the resurrection. It’s a reminder that our faith is not based on myths but on verifiable events witnessed by many. 4. The Hope of Our Resurrection In 1 Corinthians 15:20, Paul declares, "But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep." This verse assures us that Christ's resurrection is the first of many. Just as He was raised, so too will we be. This hope of our future resurrection gives us courage to face life's challenges, knowing that death is not the end. 5. Victory Over Death Death is often seen as the ultimate defeat, but 1 Corinthians 15:54-55 proclaims, "Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" Through Christ, death has lost its power. This victory over death gives us a new perspective on life, encouraging us to live boldly and fearlessly for the Lord. 6. The Importance of Transformation Paul speaks of the transformation that will occur at the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52: "We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet." This transformation is a promise of our future glorified bodies, free from sin and decay. It inspires us to pursue holiness and live in anticipation of that glorious day. 7. The Necessity of Perseverance In 1 Corinthians 15:58, Paul exhorts us, "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." This call to perseverance encourages us to remain faithful and diligent in our service to God, knowing that our efforts have eternal significance. 8. The Mystery of the Resurrection Paul acknowledges the mystery of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:51, "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed." While we may not fully understand how the resurrection will occur, we trust in God's promise. This mystery invites us to live by faith, trusting in God's perfect plan and timing. 9. The Assurance of God's Plan 1 Corinthians 15:24-25 assures us of God's ultimate plan: "Then the end will come, when He hands over the kingdom to God the Father after He has destroyed all dominion, authority, and power. For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet." This assurance of God's sovereign plan gives us peace, knowing that He is in control and will bring all things to completion. 10. The Call to Live for Christ Finally, 1 Corinthians 15:32 challenges us with the question, "If the dead are not raised, 'Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.'" But because we know the resurrection is true, we are called to live with purpose and passion for Christ. This call to live for Him transforms our daily lives, motivating us to share the hope of the Gospel with others. Topics 1. The Gospel and the Resurrection of Christ (1 Corinthians 15:1-11) Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached, emphasizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ as foundational truths. He states, "For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1 Corinthians 15:3). The Greek term "euangelion" (gospel) underscores the good news of salvation through Christ. 2. The Resurrection of the Dead (1 Corinthians 15:12-19) Paul addresses doubts about the resurrection, affirming that if there is no resurrection, then Christ has not been raised, making faith futile. He argues, "But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised" (1 Corinthians 15:13). The Greek word "anastasis" (resurrection) is central to this discussion. 3. Christ the Firstfruits (1 Corinthians 15:20-28) Paul explains that Christ's resurrection is the "firstfruits" of those who have died, indicating a future resurrection for believers. He writes, "But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep" (1 Corinthians 15:20). The term "firstfruits" (Greek: "aparche") signifies the initial portion of a harvest, symbolizing the promise of more to come. 4. The Order of Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:29-34) Paul discusses the order and implications of the resurrection, urging believers to live righteously in light of this hope. He challenges, "If the dead are not raised, 'Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die'" (1 Corinthians 15:32), quoting a common saying to highlight the futility of life without resurrection. 5. The Nature of the Resurrection Body (1 Corinthians 15:35-49) Paul addresses questions about the nature of the resurrection body, using analogies from nature to explain transformation. He states, "So will it be with the resurrection of the dead: What is sown is perishable; it is raised imperishable" (1 Corinthians 15:42). The Greek word "soma" (body) is key in understanding the transformation from a natural to a spiritual body. 6. The Mystery and Victory of Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:50-58) Paul reveals the mystery of the resurrection, proclaiming victory over death through Christ. He declares, "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55), quoting from Hosea to emphasize the defeat of death. The Greek term "mysterion" (mystery) highlights the revealed truth of resurrection. Themes 1. The Gospel Message 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 emphasizes the core message of the Gospel: Christ's death for our sins, His burial, and His resurrection on the third day. The Greek term "εὐαγγέλιον" (euangelion) refers to this "good news" that Paul preached and which the Corinthians received. 2. The Resurrection of Christ Verses 5-11 detail the appearances of the risen Christ to Cephas, the twelve, and over five hundred others. The Greek word "ἐγείρω" (egeirō) is used to describe Christ being "raised," underscoring the physical reality of His resurrection. 3. The Importance of the Resurrection In verses 12-19, Paul argues that if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised, making faith futile. The Greek term "κενός" (kenos) is used to describe faith as "vain" or "empty" without the resurrection. 4. Christ as the Firstfruits Verses 20-23 describe Christ as the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep, using the Greek term "ἀπαρχή" (aparche), which signifies the first portion of a harvest, indicating that Christ's resurrection is the first of many. 5. The Order of Resurrection Verses 24-28 outline the order of resurrection and the ultimate subjection of all things under Christ. The Greek word "τάγμα" (tagma) refers to the "order" or "sequence" of events leading to the end when God will be all in all. 6. The Nature of the Resurrected Body In verses 35-49, Paul explains the transformation from a natural body to a spiritual body. The Greek terms "ψυχικός" (psychikos) and "πνευματικός" (pneumatikos) contrast the "natural" with the "spiritual." 7. The Mystery of the Resurrection Verses 50-57 reveal the mystery that not all will sleep, but all will be changed. The Greek word "μυστήριον" (mystērion) refers to this divine secret now revealed, highlighting the victory over death through Christ. 8. The Victory over Death The chapter concludes in verses 54-57 with the declaration of victory over death, quoting from the Old Testament. The Greek term "νῖκος" (nikos) signifies the "victory" that believers have through Jesus Christ. 9. Exhortation to Steadfastness Finally, verse 58 encourages believers to be steadfast and immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord. The Greek word "ἑδραῖος" (hedraios) means "steadfast," emphasizing the call to remain firm in faith and service. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for the Resurrection Thank God for the gift of the resurrection and the hope it brings to our lives. Strength to Stand Firm Pray for the strength to stand firm in faith, especially in times of doubt or trial. Boldness in Witnessing Ask for boldness to share the gospel and the message of the resurrection with others. Hope in Eternal Life Pray for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the eternal life promised through Christ's resurrection. As we reflect on 1 Corinthians 15, may we be encouraged by the truth of the resurrection and its profound impact on our lives and faith. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does 1 Corinthians 15:6 claim over five hundred witnesses to the resurrection with no corroborating historical or archaeological evidence? 2. Why does 1 Corinthians 15:3–8 omit the empty tomb narrative found in the Gospels? 3. If 1 Corinthians 15:12–14 insists on a physical resurrection, how does this align with scientific laws that deem such an event impossible? 4. How do we reconcile apparent inconsistencies between 1 Corinthians 15:5–7 and the various Gospel accounts of Jesus’ resurrection appearances? 5. In 1 Corinthians 15:35–44, how can the resurrection body be both “spiritual” and a continuation of the same body that died? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the reality of Christ's resurrection impact your personal faith? 2. Why is the resurrection of Christ so crucial to the Christian faith, according to Paul? 3. How does Paul's argument for the resurrection of believers affirm your hope in Christ? 4. In what ways does the promise of the resurrection influence your daily life and decisions? 5. How does Paul's description of the resurrection body challenge or affirm your understanding of eternity? 6. What does Paul mean by the phrase "the last enemy to be destroyed is death"? 7. How does Paul's affirmation of victory over death through Jesus Christ encourage you in your personal walk with God? 8. How can we ensure that our "labor in the Lord is not in vain"? 9. In what ways does Paul's discourse on resurrection provide comfort in times of loss or grief? 10. How does the belief in resurrection shape our understanding of mortality and the afterlife? 11. What are the implications of the resurrection for our understanding of sin, grace, and salvation? 12. How does this chapter challenge our attitudes towards death? 13. In light of the promised resurrection, how should we live our lives today? 14. How does Paul's portrayal of the gospel message in this chapter inspire you in your personal evangelism? 15. How can we use Paul's argument in this chapter to address doubts about life after death in our contemporary world? 16. What is the role of eyewitness testimony in affirming the reality of Christ's resurrection? 17. How does Paul link the reality of Christ's resurrection to the necessity of living a Christ-focused life? 18. How does the understanding of the future resurrection help you deal with present trials? 19. What does the concept of "victory in Jesus" mean to you personally? 20. How do you understand and apply Paul's call to "stand firm" in your own life, considering the future promise of resurrection? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions