1 Corinthians 15
đź“– Background
Paul offers a powerful defense of the resurrection, both Christ’s and the future resurrection of believers. He reminds the Corinthians of the gospel message—that Christ died, was buried, rose on the third day, and appeared to many witnesses. Paul explains that without the resurrection, the Christian faith is meaningless. He describes the future resurrection of believers, the transformation of our bodies, and the ultimate victory over death through Jesus Christ.
🧠Major Themes
The gospel essentials: Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection (verses 1–11)
The resurrection as the foundation of Christian hope (verses 12–19)
Christ as the firstfruits of those raised from the dead (verses 20–28)
The nature and necessity of the resurrection body (verses 35–49)
Victory over death through Christ (verses 50–58)
🔎 Reference Scriptures to Consider
Isaiah 25:8 – God will swallow up death forever
Hosea 13:14 – “Where, O death, is your sting?”
John 11:25–26 – Jesus as the resurrection and the life
Romans 6:4–5 – United with Christ in His resurrection
Philippians 3:20–21 – Transformation of our lowly bodies
âť“Reflection Questions
How central is the resurrection to your understanding of the gospel?
In what ways does belief in the resurrection give you hope or shape your life today?
How can you live in light of the victory Christ has already secured over death?
What does it mean for your labor to “not be in vain” in the Lord (verse 58)?