1 Corinthians 15:20-34
Sermon Outline
“For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.” (1 Corinthians 15:21)
Jesus Christ the New Beginning of Resurrection Life (1 Corinthians 15:20-23)
- Adam the first fruits of death
- Jesus the first fruits of life
Jesus Christ the New Beginning of God’s Victory (1 Corinthians 15:24-28)
- The victory of the Cross and Resurrection
- The ultimate resolution at the end
Living like the New Beginning is True (1 Corinthians 15:29-34)
- The hope of baptism
- The passion of the apostles
- The joy of everyday character
Discussion Questions
- What are some of the biggest ideas you hear about the end of the world, whether funny or serious?
- At Eastbrook this weekend, we continued our journey through 1 Corinthians 15 with Paul’s words about the resurrection of Jesus. Whether you are alone or with a small group, ask God to speak to you and then read 1 Corinthians 15:20-34 aloud.
- In verses 20-23, Paul describes death coming through Adam and life coming through Christ. Read Romans 5:12-21 and discuss what it means that death came through Adam and life came through Jesus Christ.
- Paul talks about Jesus’ victory at the Cross and resurrection as the beginning of the victory of God in verses 24-28. As you read these verses, what do you think this means?
- What are your biggest concerns about the end of the world or Jesus’ return? What sort of thoughts and feelings do Paul’s words here conjure up for you?
- It seems that Paul turns from the significance of the resurrection in a general sense to the everyday lives and character decisions of the Corinthians believers in verses 29-34. What does the resurrection have to do with the things he mentions here? (Please note that no Bible scholar is completely sure what is meant in verse 29 about being “baptized for the dead.” It may have been an aberrant practice that the Corinthians thought helped people connect with Christ.)
- What significance does the resurrection have for you? What does it change about your life, hope, and character? What is one thing God is speaking to you through this study? If you are alone, write it down. If you are with a small group, discuss these things with one another.