1 Corinthians 15:50-58
Sermon Outline
“Then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory.’” (1 Corinthians 15:54)
Looking for a Serious Change (1 Corinthians 15:50-53)
- The nature of human bodies intersecting with the kingdom of God
- Those alive…those sleeping
- Monumental moments that flash suddenly alive
- The nature of our promised change in Jesus Christ
Enjoying the Ultimate Victory (1 Corinthians 15:54-57)
- Clothed imperishable and immortal
- Death’s day is done and its sting through sin and the law
- Victorious and thankful
Living in the Victory Now (1 Corinthians 15:58)
- Immovable
- Devoted
- Encouraged
Discussion Questions
- When you hear about the resurrection of the dead, what sort of things come into your mind?
- This week we conclude our series, “Resurrection Hope,” on 1 Corinthians 15. Whether you are alone or with a small group, begin by asking God to speak to you and then read 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 aloud.
- Paul brings together the various parts of his discussion of resurrection here, drawing implications both for those who are alive at the time of Christ’s return and those who have already died. Paul states a basic principle in verse 50 that normal, human bodies cannot “inherit the kingdom of God.” Why do you think Paul begins with this principle?
- The phrase “kingdom of God” is common in the Bible, appearing eleven times in Paul’s letters, four of which are in 1 Corinthians. In general, the kingdom of God refers to the rule and reign of God entering into human existence. What is Paul referring to here in 1 Corinthians 15:50-58?
- In light of the reality that “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God,” Paul says that we will all be changed (once in both verse 51 and 52). What sort of change is he talking about for both the living and for the dead at this time (see verses 42-44, 50-54)?
- What is Paul’s central, high point of celebration in verses 54-57?
- What do you eagerly anticipate at a personal level about the ultimate victory over death at Jesus’ final return?
- You might expect Paul to end with verse 57, but in verse 58 he turns the corner into our everyday lives here and now. What specific areas of our lives should be touched now by the hope of the resurrection? Which of these leaps out as most important in your life now?
- 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.