How can we ensure our testimony aligns with 1 Corinthians 15:15? Our Anchor Verse “In that case, we are also exposed as false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that He raised Christ from the dead, but He did not raise Him if in fact the dead are not raised.” — 1 Corinthians 15:15 Core Truth: The Resurrection Is Non-Negotiable • Scripture is accurate and literal; therefore Christ’s bodily resurrection is historical fact, not metaphor. • Any testimony that diminishes or doubts this event makes us “false witnesses about God.” Steps to Align Our Testimony • Center every gospel presentation on the death, burial, and literal resurrection of Jesus (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Speak what you know with integrity—first-hand faith experience backed by the Word (1 John 1:1-3). • Study diligently so you “rightly handle the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). • Yield to the Holy Spirit, who bears witness to the resurrection (Romans 8:11; Acts 5:32). • Keep the message simple: Christ died for sins, was raised, and offers forgiveness and life (Romans 10:9). • Maintain consistency between life and lips; a holy life authenticates a resurrection message (Philippians 2:15-16). Guardrails: What to Avoid • Avoid speculative theories that undercut the bodily resurrection (2 Timothy 2:18). • Reject cultural pressure to recast the gospel as merely moral teaching. • Do not add extra requirements or subtract core truths—guard the pure gospel (Galatians 1:6-9). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Acts 2:32—“God has raised this Jesus to life, to which we are all witnesses.” • Acts 17:31—God “has given assurance to all by raising Him from the dead.” • 1 Peter 3:15—Always be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in you. Practical Self-Check Before Speaking • Does my message clearly affirm Christ’s literal resurrection? • Is every claim anchored in a specific passage of Scripture? • Am I relying on the Spirit’s power rather than persuasive technique (1 Corinthians 2:4-5)? • Is my lifestyle reflecting the risen life I proclaim (Colossians 3:1-4)? By guarding these essentials, our testimony remains truthful, honoring God, and fully aligned with 1 Corinthians 15:15. |
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