Do You Believe

BIBLICAL INSPIRATION

1 Corinthians 15:1-11 is a crucial passage that lays out the foundation of Christian belief in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. This passage is part of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, in which he addresses concerns and questions from the early church in Corinth. Here, Paul emphasizes the significance of the resurrection and its implications for the faith of believers. Paul begins by reminding the Corinthians of the gospel he preached to them, which they received and in which they stand firm. This gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. Paul highlights that their salvation depends on holding fast to this message, indicating the centrality of the resurrection in Christian faith. In verses 3-4, Paul outlines the core elements of the gospel: Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, was buried, and was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures. This summary underscores the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the divine plan of redemption.

Paul then lists various eyewitnesses who saw the resurrected Christ, providing a significant apologetic argument for the resurrection. He mentions Cephas (Peter), the twelve disciples, over five hundred brothers and sisters at once, James, all the apostles, and lastly, himself. By including himself as a witness, Paul adds weight to his testimony, given his former opposition to the Christian faith before his encounter with the risen Christ. Paul’s mention of his own experience is particularly poignant. He refers to himself as “one untimely born” and acknowledges his past persecution of the church. Yet, he highlights that God’s grace transformed him and enabled him to work harder than all the other apostles. This personal transformation serves as a powerful testament to the reality and impact of the resurrection. Therefore, this passage reinforces the resurrection as the cornerstone of Christian doctrine. By affirming the historical reality of the resurrection through multiple eyewitness accounts, Paul provides a robust foundation for the believer’s hope in eternal life. The resurrection is not merely a theological concept but a historical event that validates the Christian faith and ensures the believer’s victory over sin and death. 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 is a vital passage for understanding the essence of the Christian gospel. Paul’s emphasis on the resurrection and the corroboration of various eyewitnesses offer compelling evidence for its truth. For teaching purposes, this passage serves to remind believers of the foundational truth of the resurrection, encouraging them to hold firm to their faith and the transformative power of God’s grace.