How can we defend the resurrection when faced with doubt or skepticism? Setting the Scene—1 Corinthians 15:12 “ But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? ” Paul’s Clear Line of Reasoning • The resurrection of Jesus is non-negotiable; deny it and the entire gospel collapses (1 Corinthians 15:13-19). • A risen Christ guarantees a future resurrection for all who belong to Him (1 Corinthians 15:20-23). • The resurrection anchors every hope, every sacrifice, every act of service (1 Corinthians 15:30-32, 58). Scriptural Evidence—Eyewitnesses Speak • More than five hundred believers saw the risen Lord at one time (1 Corinthians 15:6). • Peter, the Twelve, James, and finally Paul himself encountered Jesus alive (1 Corinthians 15:5, 7-8). • These witnesses preached the same message from Jerusalem outward (Acts 2:32; Acts 26:22-23). Historical Markers Within the Text • The empty tomb was first reported in the very city where Jesus was buried (Matthew 28:11-15). • Hostile authorities could not produce a body to quash the movement (Acts 4:16-18). • Early creedal statements—already circulating when Paul wrote—affirm Christ “died…was buried…was raised” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Prophetic Foundations Fulfilled • Psalm 16:10 foretold that God’s Holy One would not see decay; Peter links this promise directly to Jesus’ resurrection (Acts 2:24-31). • Isaiah 53:11 points to the Servant seeing “the light of life” after His sacrifice. Transformed Lives as Living Proof • Peter moved from denial (Luke 22:60-62) to fearless proclamation (Acts 2:14-36). • Paul shifted from persecutor to apostle after meeting the risen Christ (Acts 9:1-22; Galatians 1:23-24). • James, once skeptical (John 7:5), became a pillar in the Jerusalem church (Acts 15:13). Logical Implications to Share • If Christ remained dead, sin remains unforgiven and faith is worthless (1 Corinthians 15:17). • If Christ is raised, His words are true, His cross achieved salvation, and His return is certain (John 14:19; Romans 4:25). Practical Talking Points for Skeptical Moments • Gently highlight that the earliest witnesses staked everything—including their lives—on having seen Jesus alive. • Emphasize the harmony between multiple independent New Testament authors who record the same core facts. • Underscore fulfilled prophecy as God’s long-range verification system. • Point to ongoing personal and communal transformation as the resurrection’s present-day footprint. Living in the Light of Resurrection Truth • Stand firm; labor is never wasted when resurrection life awaits (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Offer hope; the risen Christ has robbed death of its sting (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). • Speak confidently; the same Spirit who raised Jesus empowers clear, gracious defense of the gospel (Romans 8:11; 1 Peter 3:15). |
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