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1 Corinthians 15:1
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Voddie Baucham
Francis Chan
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Stephen OlfordSummary
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- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
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Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Gospel which I preached unto you - This Gospel is contained in Christ dying for our sins, being buried, and rising again the third day. See the following verses.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Moreover brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel,.... The apostle here passes on, and proceeds to a new subject, the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead, which some in this church denied; and which he undertakes to prove, establish, and defend; and in order to lead on to it, observes, that what he was about to declare, make known, or put them in mind of, was no other than the Gospel he had formerly preached to them, they had received, professed to stand in, and were saved by, unless their faith was in vain. The doctrine of the resurrection of the dead he calls "the Gospel", that being a most important doctrine, and a fundamental article of it. The resurrection of Christ from the dead made a considerable part in the ministry of the apostles, to the grief of the Sadducees among the Jews, to the scorn of the Gentile philosophers, and to the faith, hope, and comfort of Christians: this is the sum and substance of the word of faith, or doctrine of the Gospel, upon which the whole depends; see Rom 10:8 and the resurrection of the saints is connected with it, and assured by it. This indeed is the Gospel, good news, glad tidings that the bodies of the saints shall be raised again, and made like to the glorious body of Christ; and being reunited to their souls, shall live with him to all eternity; and were this out of the Gospel, it would not be Gospel, or good news; it would be an idle story, faith would be a vain thing, and hoping and believing Christians of all the most miserable. Moreover, says the apostle, the Gospel I declare, is which I preached unto you; meaning, when he first came among them, and which had been so very useful to them for conversion and consolation; and therefore if he himself, or an angel from heaven, was to preach any other doctrine, it was to be rejected; and hence, much less should the false teachers be regarded: yea, adds he, it is the doctrine which also you have received; when first enlightened and converted, with all gladness and joyfulness, with all readiness and cheerfulness, in the love of it, and by a full assent to it; and therefore having had such an experience of it, should not now depart from it: nay, he further says, and wherein ye stand; as he hoped they did, at least it was what they ought to have done, and doubtless was the case of the majority of them, and whose example it became the rest to follow.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
It is the apostle's business in this chapter to assert and establish the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead, which some of the Corinthians flatly denied, Co1 15:12. Whether they turned this doctrine into allegory, as did Hymeneus and Philetus, by saying it was already past (Ti2 2:17, Ti2 2:18), and several of the ancient heretics, by making it mean no more than a changing of their course of life; or whether they rejected it as absurd, upon principles of reason and science; it seems they denied it in the proper sense. And they disowned a future state of recompences, by denying the resurrection of the dead. Now that heathens and infidels should deny this truth does not seem so strange; but that Christians, who had their religion by revelation, should deny a truth so plainly discovered is surprising, especially when it is a truth of such importance. It was time for the apostle to confirm them in this truth, when the staggering of their faith in this point was likely to shake their Christianity; and they were yet in great danger of having their faith staggered. He begins with an epitome or summary of the gospel, what he had preached among them, namely, the death and resurrection of Christ. Upon this foundation the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead is built. Note, Divine truths appear with greatest evidence when they are looked upon in their mutual connection. The foundation may be strengthened, that the superstructure may be secured. Now concerning the gospel observe, I. What a stress he lays upon it (Co1 15:1, Co1 15:2): Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached to you. 1. It was what he constantly preached. His word was not yea and nay: he always preached the same gospel, and taught the same truth. He could appeal to his hearers for this. Truth is in its own nature invariable; and the infallible teachers of divine truth could never be at variance with themselves or one another. The doctrine which Paul had heretofore taught, he still taught. 2. It was what they had received; they had been convinced of the faith, believed it in their hearts, or at least made profession of doing so with their mouths. It was no strange doctrine. It was that very gospel in which, or by which, they had hitherto stood, and must continue to stand. If they gave up this truth, they left themselves no ground to stand upon, no footing in religion. Note, The doctrine of Christ's death and resurrection is at the foundation of Christianity. Remove this foundation, and the whole fabric falls, all our hopes for eternity sink at once. And it is by holding this truth firmly that Christians are made to stand in a day of trial, and kept faithful to God. 3. It was that alone by which they could hope for salvation (Co1 15:2), for there is no salvation in any other name; no name given under heaven by which we may be saved, but by the name of Christ. And there is no salvation in his name, but upon supposition of his death and resurrection. These are the saving truths of our holy religion. The crucifixion of our Redeemer and his conquest over death are the very source of our spiritual life and hopes. Now concerning these saving truths observe, (1.) They must be retained in mind, they must be held fast (so the word is translated, Heb 10:23): Let us hold fast the profession of our faith. Note, The saving truths of the gospel must be fixed in our mind, revolved much in our thoughts, and maintained and held fast to the end, if we would be saved. They will not save us, if we do not attend to them, and yield to their power, and continue to do so to the end. He only that endureth to the end shall be saved, Mat 10:22. (2.) We believe in vain, unless we continue and persevere in the faith of the gospel. We shall be never the better for a temporary faith; nay, we shall aggravate our guilt by relapsing into infidelity. And in vain is it to profess Christianity, or our faith in Christ, if we deny the resurrection; for this must imply and involve the denial of his resurrection; and, take away this, you make nothing of Christianity, you leave nothing for faith or hope to fix upon. II. Observe what this gospel is, on which the apostle lays such stress. It was that doctrine which he had received, and delivered to them, en prōtois - among the first, the principal. It was a doctrine of the first rank, a most necessary truth, That Christ died for our sins, and was buried, and rose again: or, in other words, that he was delivered for our offences and rose again for our justification (Rom 4:25), that he was offered in sacrifice for our sins, and rose again, to show that he had procured forgiveness for them, and was accepted of God in this offering. Note, Christ's death and resurrection are the very sum and substance of evangelical truth. Hence we derive our spiritual life now, and here we must found our hopes of everlasting life hereafter. III. Observe how this truth is confirmed, 1. By Old Testament predictions. He died for our sins, according to the scriptures; he was buried, and rose from the dead, according to the scriptures, according to the scripture-prophecies, and scripture-types. Such prophecies as Psa 16:10; Isa 53:4-6; Dan 9:26, Dan 9:27; Hos 6:2. Such scripture-types as Jonah (Mat 12:4), as Isaac, who is expressly said by the apostle to have been received from the dead in a figure, Heb 11:19. Note, It is a great confirmation of our faith of the gospel to see how it corresponds with ancient types and prophecies. 2. By the testimony of many eye-witnesses, who saw Christ after he had risen from the dead. He reckons up five several appearances, beside that to himself. He was seen of Cephas, or Peter, then of the twelve, called so, though Judas was no longer among them, because this was their usual number; then he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once, many of whom were living when the apostle wrote this epistle, though some had fallen asleep. This was in Galilee, Mat 28:10. After that, he was seen of James singly, and then by all the apostles when he was taken up into heaven. This was on mount Olivet, Luk 24:50. Compare Act 1:2, Act 1:5-7. Note, How uncontrollably evident was Christ's resurrection from the dead, when so many eyes saw him at so many different times alive, and when he indulged the weakness of one disciple so far as to let him handle him, to put his resurrection out of doubt! And what reason have we to believe those who were so steady in maintaining this truth, though they hazarded all that was dear to them in this world, by endeavouring to assert and propagate it! Even Paul himself was last of all favoured with the sight of him. It was one of the peculiar offices of an apostle to be a witness of our Saviour's resurrection (Luk 24:48); and, when Paul was called to the apostolical office, he was made an evidence of this sort; the Lord Jesus appeared to him by the way to Damascus, Act 9:17. Having mentioned this favour, Paul takes occasion from it to make a humble digression concerning himself. He was highly favoured of God, but he always endeavoured to keep up a mean opinion of himself, and to express it. So he does here, by observing, (1.) That he was one born out of due time (Co1 15:8), an abortive, ektrōma, a child dead born, and out of time. Paul resembled such a birth, in the suddenness of his new birth, in that he was not matured for the apostolic function, as the others were, who had personal converse with our Lord. He was called to the office when such conversation was not to be had, he was out of time for it. He had not known nor followed the Lord, nor been formed in his family, as the others were, for this high and honourable function. This was in Paul's account a very humbling circumstance. (2.) By owning himself inferior to the other apostles: Not meet to be called an apostle. The least, because the last of them; called latest to the office, and not worthy to be called an apostle, to have either the office or the title, because he had been a persecutor of the church of God, Co1 15:9. Indeed, he tells us elsewhere that he was not a whit behind the very chief apostles (Co2 11:5) - for gifts, graces, service, and sufferings, inferior to none of them. Yet some circumstances in his case made him think more meanly of himself than of any of them. Note, A humble spirit, in the midst of high attainments, is a great ornament to any man; it sets his good qualities off to much greater advantage. What kept Paul low in an especial manner was the remembrance of his former wickedness, his raging and destructive zeal against Christ and him members. Note, How easily God can bring a good out of the greatest evil! When sinners are by divine grace turned into saints, he makes the remembrance of their former sins very serviceable, to make them humble, and diligent, and faithful. (3.) By ascribing all that was valuable in him to divine grace: But by the grace of God I am what I am, Co1 15:10. It is God's prerogative to say, I am that I am; it is our privilege to be able to say, "By God's grace we are what we are." We are nothing but what God makes us, nothing in religion but what his grace makes us. All that is good in us is a stream from this fountain. Paul was sensible of this, and kept humble and thankful by this conviction; so should we. Nay, though he was conscious of his own diligence, and zeal, and service, so that he could say of himself, the grace of God was not given him in vain, but he laboured more abundantly than they all: he thought himself so much more the debtor to divine grace. Yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Note, Those who have the grace of God bestowed on them should take care that it be not in vain. They should cherish, and exercise, and exert, this heavenly principle. So did Paul, and therefore laboured with so much heart and so much success. And yet the more he laboured, and the more good he did, the more humble he was in his opinion of himself, and the more disposed to own and magnify the favour of God towards him, his free and unmerited favour. Note, A humble spirit will be very apt to own and magnify the grace of God. A humble spirit is commonly a gracious one. Where pride is subdued there it is reasonable to believe grace reigns. After this digression, the apostle returns to his argument, and tells them (Co1 15:11) that he not only preached the same gospel himself at all times, and in all places, but that all the apostles preached the same: Whether it were they or I, so we preached, and so you believed. Whether Peter, or Paul, or any other apostle, had converted them to Christianity, all maintained the same truth, told the same story, preached the same doctrine, and confirmed it by the same evidence. All agreed in this that Jesus Christ, and him crucified and slain, and then rising from the dead, was the very sum and substance of Christianity; and this all true Christians believe. All the apostles agreed in this testimony; all Christians agree in the belief of it. By this faith they live. In this faith they die.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:1-58 Some people in the church had doubts about a future resurrection of the dead. Paul reassures them and, perhaps in response to their skeptical questions, discusses the nature of a resurrection body. 15:1-11 Paul summarizes the Good News that he preached. 15:1 At the heart of the Good News stands the message of the atoning death and resurrection of Christ (see 15:3-4; Rom 5:8-10; 6:5-11).
1 Corinthians 15:1
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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Errors in the Modern Day Gospel
By Voddie Baucham8.7K35:041CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker criticizes a preacher who uses manipulative tactics to connect with the audience. The preacher dresses down and uses phrases to make the young adults and 20-somethings feel like he is one of them. He then uses humor and storytelling to draw the audience in, but quickly shifts the message to guilt and legalism. The speaker expresses concern that this type of evangelism is not true gospel proclamation, but rather a checklist of religious activities that make people feel guilty if they don't measure up.
(True Disciple Conference) the Greatness of the Gospel
By Paul Washer7.2K50:08Gospel1CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of truly knowing God and understanding the gospel of Jesus Christ. He criticizes the reduction of the gospel to a simplistic message and highlights the profound sacrifice made by God and Jesus Christ for the redemption of humanity. The preacher emphasizes the need for repentance and belief in the gospel, rather than relying on manipulative tactics or emotional appeals. He also emphasizes that a lack of knowledge about God and the gospel leads to a lack of power to love and serve God.
The Holy Spirit's Power and Our Effort - Part 2
By Francis Chan6.9K49:431CO 15:1
This sermon emphasizes the importance of diligently pursuing qualities of faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love to ensure a secure entrance into the eternal kingdom. It addresses doubts about salvation, the need for perseverance, and the assurance that comes from living a transformed life in alignment with God's will.
What Is Real Christianity?
By Paul Washer5.3K1:12:31GEN 6:5MAT 10:28MAT 22:37JHN 14:6ROM 2:41CO 15:1REV 6:16In this sermon, the preacher passionately delivers the gospel of Jesus Christ, urging the listeners to repent and turn to God. He emphasizes the fallen nature of humanity, using examples of extreme acts of violence and the existence of laws as evidence. The preacher also highlights the need for mercy and the consequences of rejecting God's truth. He references Bible verses, such as Isaiah 64:6-7, to support his points about the sinful state of mankind. Overall, the sermon calls for a response to the message of salvation and warns of the eternal consequences of rejecting God.
No Greater Truth (Than the Gospel) - Part 1
By Paul Washer4.4K41:58MAT 6:331CO 15:11CO 15:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of a genuine relationship with Jesus Christ. He criticizes the shallow and ineffective preaching of the gospel in America today. The preacher urges the congregation to rely on Jesus and not on external factors such as great preaching or church activities. He shares his personal testimony of being saved by Jesus and highlights the significance of Jesus shedding his blood for our souls. The preacher also emphasizes the value of individual people and the need for the gospel to reach each person personally.
No Greater Truth (Than the Gospel) - Part 2
By Paul Washer3.5K57:281CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the gospel message. He highlights the significance of Christ's death for our sins, his burial, and his resurrection on the third day, all according to the scriptures. The preacher emphasizes that these words should hold great weight and meaning for believers, as they represent the sacrifice and victory of God's only begotten son. He also mentions the pain and suffering that Jesus endured on the cross, bearing the wrath of God and carrying the sins of his people. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the garden scene, where Jesus willingly submits to the Father's will and becomes the victorious king of glory.
(I Want an Answer) Why Did Jesus Die?
By Stephen Olford3.0K38:551CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the transformation of a girl who was living a carefree and frivolous life. He questions whether she can turn away from life and embrace death. The sermon then shifts to the death of Jesus Christ and the significance it holds. The preacher emphasizes four important truths about Jesus' death and urges the audience, especially young people, to understand its profound impact. He concludes by highlighting the victory over death that Jesus offers and encourages listeners to seek deliverance from the fear and power of death through faith in Christ.
What's Wrong With American 'Christianity'
By Paul Washer2.2K39:31American ChristianityGEN 6:5MAT 6:33JHN 3:16ACT 4:12ROM 3:101CO 15:1EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of constantly reminding Christians of the gospel. He argues that the gospel has lost its power in America because people do not understand the predicament they are in before a holy God. The preacher believes that the primary motivation for Christians should be the gospel of Jesus Christ, which offers salvation and reconciliation with God. He encourages both Christians and non-Christians to embrace the gospel and experience the pleasure of God.
No Greater Truth (Part 2)
By Paul Washer2.1K57:271CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the gospel of Jesus Christ, stating that there is no greater theme to preach or cause to defend. He highlights that the gospel is not just a basic truth learned at the beginning of one's Christian life, but a truth that will be pursued throughout eternity. The preacher also discusses the concept of being justified before God and how it is a question asked by every religion. He references 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, which explains that the gospel includes the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ for our sins. The sermon concludes with a reflection on the pain of the cross and the significance of Jesus dying forsaken by his father and under his father's wrath.
Damnable Half Truths
By Ian Paisley1.9K40:261CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of the word of God and the power of faith in Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that salvation comes through confessing with one's mouth and believing in the heart that Jesus is Lord and that God raised him from the dead. The preacher warns against believing half-truths, such as the idea that perseverance is not necessary for salvation or that there is no punishment for sins in the afterlife. He stresses the reality of judgment and the existence of hell, urging listeners to turn to Christ and receive salvation.
(Following the Footsteps of Christ) the Burial of Christ
By Willie Mullan1.8K1:17:52Burial Of Christ1CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the crucifixion of Jesus and the events that followed. He describes the process of removing Jesus from the cross and preparing his body for burial. The speaker also discusses the significance of the Passover and how it relates to Jesus' crucifixion. He emphasizes that Jesus, who was rich and God, willingly gave himself up for our sins. The sermon concludes with a mention of the topic of cremation, but the speaker does not provide any specific commentary on it.
Resurrection: Witnesses
By J. Glyn Owen1.6K50:34Resurrection1CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a living mediator, Jesus Christ, who brings us into communion with God. The Apostle Paul is highlighted as a witness to the resurrection of Jesus. The speaker explains that Paul's experience of seeing the risen Lord was not a subjective vision, but an objective reality. The fact of Christ's resurrection is emphasized as the foundation of the Gospel, and the speaker encourages believers to recognize the significance of Christ's resurrection in their own lives.
A Wife's Responsibility to Help Her Husband
By Barbara Hughes1.6K1:12:07Family1CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true gospel and not just relying on a one-time prayer for salvation. He highlights the significance of the book of Genesis in understanding our identity as created in the image of God and how sin has marred that image. The speaker emphasizes that God had a plan from the beginning and Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of that plan. The sermon encourages believers to teach the gospel to others, including children, and to have a comprehensive understanding of the Bible.
Studies in 1 Corinthians-12 1 Cor 15
By William MacDonald1.4K45:37MAT 6:331CO 15:11CO 15:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of believing in the gospel message. He explains that as sinners, we should have died for our sins, but Jesus died for us instead. The preacher highlights the significance of Jesus' resurrection as proof that his work was perfect and accepted by God. He also mentions that the resurrection of Christ is one of the most well-attested facts in history, with witnesses who saw the risen Christ. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the solemnity of the final judgment, where those whose names are not written in the book of life will be cast into the lake of fire.
(1 Corinthians) Exposition to Chapter 15
By Brian Brodersen1.4K54:051CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of always being prepared for the sudden return of the Lord. He encourages believers to be steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in the work of the Lord. The speaker highlights that our labor for the Lord is never in vain and that God takes note of everything we do for Him. He also mentions the glorious promises and future that God has for believers, including the rapture, where believers will be caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. The speaker concludes by urging listeners to live in anticipation of this event and to continue serving the Lord faithfully.
Christian Combat - the Goal of Christian Combat: Stand
By David Guzik1.0K37:48ROM 5:2ROM 8:11CO 15:1GAL 5:1EPH 6:10PHP 1:271PE 5:8In this sermon, the preacher uses the analogy of a sprint race to illustrate the Christian life. He describes a scenario where seven sprinters are lined up to race, but various obstacles hinder their progress. The preacher emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the midst of challenges and opposition, highlighting the need to rely on Jesus as our teammate. He also discusses the concept of the "evil day," referring to the spiritual opposition and worldly influences that Christians face. The preacher encourages believers to stand in the grace and gospel of God, remaining steadfast in their faith.
Mormonism 10
By Gordon Fraser77041:001CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of believing in the gospel according to Christian beliefs. He highlights the need to trust in God's word and not be swayed by other religions. The speaker also discusses the concept of good works and the foundation of faith in Jesus Christ. He references passages from the Bible, such as 1 Corinthians and Ephesians, to support his points and explain the process of salvation from sin through grace and faith.
Reason for Our Hope 3
By Peter Maiden56456:15Hope1CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the belief of Christians in the resurrection of Jesus Christ and his promised return in glory. They highlight the significance of Jesus being the same person who performed miracles and sacrificed himself on the cross. The speaker also mentions the credibility of the witnesses to Jesus' resurrection, including apostles like John, James, Peter, and Paul. They argue that the transformation of the disciples from fearful cowards to bold proclaimers of the gospel is evidence of the truth of Jesus' resurrection. The sermon concludes by encouraging believers to confidently share their faith, relying on reason and evidence, and trusting in God's surpassing understanding.
The Message Wherein Ye Stand
By Rolfe Barnard5521:01:24Christian LifeMAT 6:33JHN 6:44ROM 10:141CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on the Bible as the ultimate source of truth. He encourages people to bring their Bibles and not believe anything until they find it in the book. The preacher also highlights the significance of the gospel message, stating that it is the message that can save us if we stand in it and keep it in memory. He explains that the gospel is the message that Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, as testified by competent witnesses. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the command to believe in the gospel and the power it holds for salvation.
Attempting to Improve the Gospel
By Mark Denver4981:05:23Preserving the GospelGospelEvangelism1CO 15:1Mark Denver emphasizes the importance of preserving the integrity of the gospel, warning against attempts to improve or modify it through cultural relevance, personal interpretations, or societal engagement. He highlights that the gospel's core message—creation, fall, redemption, and restoration—must remain clear and unaltered, as any additions or changes can lead to a loss of its true meaning. Denver encourages pastors to focus on the gospel's sufficiency and to ensure that their congregations understand it as the central message of their faith. He calls for a commitment to evangelism and the local church as essential components of the Christian life, reminding listeners that the gospel is ultimately about God's glory rather than merely human benefit. The sermon concludes with a prayer for clarity and faithfulness in preaching the gospel.
The Resurrection
By John McGregor43230:45Resurrection1CO 15:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding what we truly need at the foot of the old rugged cross, by coming to Jesus and trusting in Him. He shares a story from the American Civil War to illustrate the need for rest and connection to the head. The resurrection of Jesus is highlighted as it reveals the future of believers, emphasizing that just as we have borne the likeness of the earthly man, we shall bear the likeness of the man from heaven. The preacher also discusses the success of Calvary, explaining that Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and raised to life for our justification, offering us a fresh start and cleansing from our wrongdoings.
A Call to Full-Sized Christianity
By Roger Ellsworth40830:19ChristianityMAT 6:33JHN 14:61CO 15:11CO 15:58EPH 4:141TI 4:16TIT 2:1In this sermon, the preacher urges the congregation to be full-sized Christians in their faith, service, and confidence. He emphasizes the importance of not downsizing or cutting back in these areas, especially in a time of downsizing. The preacher draws his conclusion from Paul's teachings on the resurrection of the Lord, urging the congregation to be steadfast and immovable. He calls on them to have full-sized faith, to serve the Lord wholeheartedly, and to have confidence in the work they are doing for the glory of Jesus Christ.
What Will Our Resurrected Bodies Be Like?
By Mike Bickle271:11:21Hope in ChristResurrection1CO 15:1Mike Bickle discusses the nature of our resurrected bodies, emphasizing that they will be transformed versions of our current bodies, retaining our unique identities and characteristics but perfected in glory. He explains that our resurrected bodies will be physical and capable of eating, drinking, and learning, while also possessing supernatural abilities. Bickle reassures believers that there will be no pain, sorrow, or death in the resurrection, and that we will live in a renewed earth where heaven and earth are united. He encourages the congregation to understand the hope and excitement that comes from these truths about the resurrection, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith and work.
(The Activity of the Holy Spirit) the Body of Glory
By Peter Brandon946:09New BodyResurrection1CO 15:1Peter Brandon emphasizes the significance of the resurrection of Christ as the foundation for the belief in a new body, highlighting that Christianity is rooted in historical evidence rather than emotions. He explains the logic behind the necessity of a new body, contrasting our current 'body of humiliation' with the promised 'body of glory' that believers will receive. Brandon illustrates that just as Christ was raised as the firstfruits, believers will also be transformed, and he encourages the congregation to understand the earnest of the Holy Spirit as a foretaste of the glory to come. He concludes by affirming that the resurrection is not just a theological concept but a transformative reality that assures believers of their eternal hope.
The Cross of the Lord Jesus
By Peter Brandon536:42The Sacrifice of ChristPersonal Salvation1CO 15:1Peter Brandon delivers a powerful sermon on 'The Cross of the Lord Jesus,' emphasizing the significance of Christ's sacrificial death. He explains how Jesus' death was prophesied long before it occurred, highlighting the pain and suffering He endured, and the profound love behind His sacrifice. Brandon addresses common questions about the necessity of the cross and the shedding of blood, ultimately revealing that Christ died for our sins, making the message personal and transformative. He illustrates the importance of recognizing that Jesus' death was not just for humanity but for each individual, inviting listeners to embrace the forgiveness and love offered through the cross.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The Gospel which I preached unto you - This Gospel is contained in Christ dying for our sins, being buried, and rising again the third day. See the following verses.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Moreover brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel,.... The apostle here passes on, and proceeds to a new subject, the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead, which some in this church denied; and which he undertakes to prove, establish, and defend; and in order to lead on to it, observes, that what he was about to declare, make known, or put them in mind of, was no other than the Gospel he had formerly preached to them, they had received, professed to stand in, and were saved by, unless their faith was in vain. The doctrine of the resurrection of the dead he calls "the Gospel", that being a most important doctrine, and a fundamental article of it. The resurrection of Christ from the dead made a considerable part in the ministry of the apostles, to the grief of the Sadducees among the Jews, to the scorn of the Gentile philosophers, and to the faith, hope, and comfort of Christians: this is the sum and substance of the word of faith, or doctrine of the Gospel, upon which the whole depends; see Rom 10:8 and the resurrection of the saints is connected with it, and assured by it. This indeed is the Gospel, good news, glad tidings that the bodies of the saints shall be raised again, and made like to the glorious body of Christ; and being reunited to their souls, shall live with him to all eternity; and were this out of the Gospel, it would not be Gospel, or good news; it would be an idle story, faith would be a vain thing, and hoping and believing Christians of all the most miserable. Moreover, says the apostle, the Gospel I declare, is which I preached unto you; meaning, when he first came among them, and which had been so very useful to them for conversion and consolation; and therefore if he himself, or an angel from heaven, was to preach any other doctrine, it was to be rejected; and hence, much less should the false teachers be regarded: yea, adds he, it is the doctrine which also you have received; when first enlightened and converted, with all gladness and joyfulness, with all readiness and cheerfulness, in the love of it, and by a full assent to it; and therefore having had such an experience of it, should not now depart from it: nay, he further says, and wherein ye stand; as he hoped they did, at least it was what they ought to have done, and doubtless was the case of the majority of them, and whose example it became the rest to follow.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
It is the apostle's business in this chapter to assert and establish the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead, which some of the Corinthians flatly denied, Co1 15:12. Whether they turned this doctrine into allegory, as did Hymeneus and Philetus, by saying it was already past (Ti2 2:17, Ti2 2:18), and several of the ancient heretics, by making it mean no more than a changing of their course of life; or whether they rejected it as absurd, upon principles of reason and science; it seems they denied it in the proper sense. And they disowned a future state of recompences, by denying the resurrection of the dead. Now that heathens and infidels should deny this truth does not seem so strange; but that Christians, who had their religion by revelation, should deny a truth so plainly discovered is surprising, especially when it is a truth of such importance. It was time for the apostle to confirm them in this truth, when the staggering of their faith in this point was likely to shake their Christianity; and they were yet in great danger of having their faith staggered. He begins with an epitome or summary of the gospel, what he had preached among them, namely, the death and resurrection of Christ. Upon this foundation the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead is built. Note, Divine truths appear with greatest evidence when they are looked upon in their mutual connection. The foundation may be strengthened, that the superstructure may be secured. Now concerning the gospel observe, I. What a stress he lays upon it (Co1 15:1, Co1 15:2): Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached to you. 1. It was what he constantly preached. His word was not yea and nay: he always preached the same gospel, and taught the same truth. He could appeal to his hearers for this. Truth is in its own nature invariable; and the infallible teachers of divine truth could never be at variance with themselves or one another. The doctrine which Paul had heretofore taught, he still taught. 2. It was what they had received; they had been convinced of the faith, believed it in their hearts, or at least made profession of doing so with their mouths. It was no strange doctrine. It was that very gospel in which, or by which, they had hitherto stood, and must continue to stand. If they gave up this truth, they left themselves no ground to stand upon, no footing in religion. Note, The doctrine of Christ's death and resurrection is at the foundation of Christianity. Remove this foundation, and the whole fabric falls, all our hopes for eternity sink at once. And it is by holding this truth firmly that Christians are made to stand in a day of trial, and kept faithful to God. 3. It was that alone by which they could hope for salvation (Co1 15:2), for there is no salvation in any other name; no name given under heaven by which we may be saved, but by the name of Christ. And there is no salvation in his name, but upon supposition of his death and resurrection. These are the saving truths of our holy religion. The crucifixion of our Redeemer and his conquest over death are the very source of our spiritual life and hopes. Now concerning these saving truths observe, (1.) They must be retained in mind, they must be held fast (so the word is translated, Heb 10:23): Let us hold fast the profession of our faith. Note, The saving truths of the gospel must be fixed in our mind, revolved much in our thoughts, and maintained and held fast to the end, if we would be saved. They will not save us, if we do not attend to them, and yield to their power, and continue to do so to the end. He only that endureth to the end shall be saved, Mat 10:22. (2.) We believe in vain, unless we continue and persevere in the faith of the gospel. We shall be never the better for a temporary faith; nay, we shall aggravate our guilt by relapsing into infidelity. And in vain is it to profess Christianity, or our faith in Christ, if we deny the resurrection; for this must imply and involve the denial of his resurrection; and, take away this, you make nothing of Christianity, you leave nothing for faith or hope to fix upon. II. Observe what this gospel is, on which the apostle lays such stress. It was that doctrine which he had received, and delivered to them, en prōtois - among the first, the principal. It was a doctrine of the first rank, a most necessary truth, That Christ died for our sins, and was buried, and rose again: or, in other words, that he was delivered for our offences and rose again for our justification (Rom 4:25), that he was offered in sacrifice for our sins, and rose again, to show that he had procured forgiveness for them, and was accepted of God in this offering. Note, Christ's death and resurrection are the very sum and substance of evangelical truth. Hence we derive our spiritual life now, and here we must found our hopes of everlasting life hereafter. III. Observe how this truth is confirmed, 1. By Old Testament predictions. He died for our sins, according to the scriptures; he was buried, and rose from the dead, according to the scriptures, according to the scripture-prophecies, and scripture-types. Such prophecies as Psa 16:10; Isa 53:4-6; Dan 9:26, Dan 9:27; Hos 6:2. Such scripture-types as Jonah (Mat 12:4), as Isaac, who is expressly said by the apostle to have been received from the dead in a figure, Heb 11:19. Note, It is a great confirmation of our faith of the gospel to see how it corresponds with ancient types and prophecies. 2. By the testimony of many eye-witnesses, who saw Christ after he had risen from the dead. He reckons up five several appearances, beside that to himself. He was seen of Cephas, or Peter, then of the twelve, called so, though Judas was no longer among them, because this was their usual number; then he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once, many of whom were living when the apostle wrote this epistle, though some had fallen asleep. This was in Galilee, Mat 28:10. After that, he was seen of James singly, and then by all the apostles when he was taken up into heaven. This was on mount Olivet, Luk 24:50. Compare Act 1:2, Act 1:5-7. Note, How uncontrollably evident was Christ's resurrection from the dead, when so many eyes saw him at so many different times alive, and when he indulged the weakness of one disciple so far as to let him handle him, to put his resurrection out of doubt! And what reason have we to believe those who were so steady in maintaining this truth, though they hazarded all that was dear to them in this world, by endeavouring to assert and propagate it! Even Paul himself was last of all favoured with the sight of him. It was one of the peculiar offices of an apostle to be a witness of our Saviour's resurrection (Luk 24:48); and, when Paul was called to the apostolical office, he was made an evidence of this sort; the Lord Jesus appeared to him by the way to Damascus, Act 9:17. Having mentioned this favour, Paul takes occasion from it to make a humble digression concerning himself. He was highly favoured of God, but he always endeavoured to keep up a mean opinion of himself, and to express it. So he does here, by observing, (1.) That he was one born out of due time (Co1 15:8), an abortive, ektrōma, a child dead born, and out of time. Paul resembled such a birth, in the suddenness of his new birth, in that he was not matured for the apostolic function, as the others were, who had personal converse with our Lord. He was called to the office when such conversation was not to be had, he was out of time for it. He had not known nor followed the Lord, nor been formed in his family, as the others were, for this high and honourable function. This was in Paul's account a very humbling circumstance. (2.) By owning himself inferior to the other apostles: Not meet to be called an apostle. The least, because the last of them; called latest to the office, and not worthy to be called an apostle, to have either the office or the title, because he had been a persecutor of the church of God, Co1 15:9. Indeed, he tells us elsewhere that he was not a whit behind the very chief apostles (Co2 11:5) - for gifts, graces, service, and sufferings, inferior to none of them. Yet some circumstances in his case made him think more meanly of himself than of any of them. Note, A humble spirit, in the midst of high attainments, is a great ornament to any man; it sets his good qualities off to much greater advantage. What kept Paul low in an especial manner was the remembrance of his former wickedness, his raging and destructive zeal against Christ and him members. Note, How easily God can bring a good out of the greatest evil! When sinners are by divine grace turned into saints, he makes the remembrance of their former sins very serviceable, to make them humble, and diligent, and faithful. (3.) By ascribing all that was valuable in him to divine grace: But by the grace of God I am what I am, Co1 15:10. It is God's prerogative to say, I am that I am; it is our privilege to be able to say, "By God's grace we are what we are." We are nothing but what God makes us, nothing in religion but what his grace makes us. All that is good in us is a stream from this fountain. Paul was sensible of this, and kept humble and thankful by this conviction; so should we. Nay, though he was conscious of his own diligence, and zeal, and service, so that he could say of himself, the grace of God was not given him in vain, but he laboured more abundantly than they all: he thought himself so much more the debtor to divine grace. Yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. Note, Those who have the grace of God bestowed on them should take care that it be not in vain. They should cherish, and exercise, and exert, this heavenly principle. So did Paul, and therefore laboured with so much heart and so much success. And yet the more he laboured, and the more good he did, the more humble he was in his opinion of himself, and the more disposed to own and magnify the favour of God towards him, his free and unmerited favour. Note, A humble spirit will be very apt to own and magnify the grace of God. A humble spirit is commonly a gracious one. Where pride is subdued there it is reasonable to believe grace reigns. After this digression, the apostle returns to his argument, and tells them (Co1 15:11) that he not only preached the same gospel himself at all times, and in all places, but that all the apostles preached the same: Whether it were they or I, so we preached, and so you believed. Whether Peter, or Paul, or any other apostle, had converted them to Christianity, all maintained the same truth, told the same story, preached the same doctrine, and confirmed it by the same evidence. All agreed in this that Jesus Christ, and him crucified and slain, and then rising from the dead, was the very sum and substance of Christianity; and this all true Christians believe. All the apostles agreed in this testimony; all Christians agree in the belief of it. By this faith they live. In this faith they die.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:1-58 Some people in the church had doubts about a future resurrection of the dead. Paul reassures them and, perhaps in response to their skeptical questions, discusses the nature of a resurrection body. 15:1-11 Paul summarizes the Good News that he preached. 15:1 At the heart of the Good News stands the message of the atoning death and resurrection of Christ (see 15:3-4; Rom 5:8-10; 6:5-11).