1 Cor 15:1-11 — The Resurrection of Christ
1 Cor 15:12-58 — The Resurrection of the Dead, The Resurrection Body
1 Cor 16 — Final Instructions
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There are three main sections to Chapter 15, each with huge significance for our faith and for our beliefs. “Of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third according to the Scriptures…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). To confess Jesus was raised from the dead after being tortured and killed by the Romans through their notorious method of crucifixion is one of the most significant differences between Christians and other religions. This really separates us from the rest of the world. Those who were around Paul and the other Apostles were fully aware of the complete and utter death resulting from crucifixion.
This leads to the second section: “how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?” (15:12). Further, “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (15:17). Paul is making a strong case for faith and doing his best to make us all think about the incredible gift we’ve been given. “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (15:20).
In the last section, Paul talks about an incredible concept, the resurrection body. He is answering questions posed from the Corinthian church to be sure, but his answers to these unwritten questions provide great insight for us. “So it will be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable” (15:42). Paul continues to explain, “Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed–in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet” (15:51). The hope of the resurrection is amazing, is wonderful and is certainly mysterious.
Chapter 15 begins with, “I want to remind you of the gospel” and ends with great assurance: “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (15:58).
The last chapter in this book adds some important details for the church in Corinth and endorses leaders that Paul apparently wants to endorse. He lets them know Timothy is coming and supports Stephanas (and his household), Fortunatus and Achaicus, those who “refreshed my spirit and yours also. Such men deserve recognition” (cf 16:15-18). In his final remarks, he adds greetings from Aquila and Priscilla, the couple who provided Paul a place to stay, a Godly couple who were well trained in the Gospel (see Acts 18:26 where they teach Apollos).
There is much to consider in these two chapters, but I love Paul’s clarity: Christ died, God raised him, I believe in the resurrection and nothing will move me from these fundamental beliefs. Lord help me to understand more and more about your truth, your word. Grant me wisdom and a heart that desires to help others come to Christ.