1 Corinthians 15 Bible Study- The Resurrection Chapter

Discussion Q&A on 1 Corinthians 15

Ten Key Takeaways

1. The Centrality of the Resurrection

1 Corinthians 15 is known as the Resurrection Chapter, presenting the resurrection of Jesus Christ as the foundation of Christian hope and the promise of eternal life for all believers.

2. The Context of Corinth

Corinth was a wealthy, influential, and morally permissive city, marked by intellectualism and sensualism, which shaped the challenges Paul addressed in his letter.

3. Purpose of Paul’s Letter

Paul wrote to correct doctrinal errors, especially the denial of bodily resurrection, and to address moral and spiritual weaknesses within the Corinthian church.

4. Structure of the Chapter

Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 15 covers:

• The importance of the resurrection (vv. 1–11)
• The consequences of denying it (vv. 12–19)
• The Christian hope (vv. 20–34)
• The nature of the resurrection body (vv. 35–50)
• The believer’s victory through Christ (vv. 51–58)

5. The Gospel Defined

Paul summarizes the gospel as Christ’s death for our sins, burial, and resurrection on the third day, all in accordance with the Scriptures. This is the unshakable foundation of Christian faith.

6. Eyewitness Testimony

Paul lists multiple eyewitnesses to Jesus’ resurrection, including Peter, the twelve, over 500 believers, James, all the apostles, and Paul himself-affirming the resurrection as a historical fact.

7. The Consequences of Denying the Resurrection

If there is no resurrection:

• Preaching and faith are empty
• Believers remain in their sins
• The dead are lost
• Christians are most to be pitied

8. Christ as Firstfruits and the Order of Resurrection

Jesus’ resurrection is the “firstfruits,” guaranteeing the resurrection of all believers. At Christ’s return, those who belong to Him will be raised in the proper order.

9. The Transformation of Believers

Paul reveals the “mystery” that not all will die, but all believers will be changed instantly at the last trumpet, receiving incorruptible, glorified bodies.

10. The Final Victory and Christian Hope

Death will be swallowed up in victory. Because of Christ’s resurrection, believers are called to stand firm, abound in God’s work, and live with the assurance that their labor is not in vain, as eternal life is already theirs through faith.

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