How does 1 Corinthians 15:17 connect to Romans 4:25 about justification? The Problem if Christ Is Not Raised 1 Corinthians 15:17: “And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.” • A dead Messiah means sin’s penalty remains unpaid. • Faith would be empty because its object would be powerless. • Without the resurrection, no one stands righteous before God. Resurrection and Justification Linked Romans 4:25: “He was delivered over to death for our trespasses, and was raised to life for our justification.” • Two great acts, one saving purpose: – “Delivered over” = the cross deals with our trespasses. – “Raised” = God’s public declaration that the payment is accepted, securing justification. • 1 Corinthians 15:17 states the negative (“still in your sins”); Romans 4:25 states the positive (“justification”). Together they show that justification hangs entirely on the reality of the resurrection. Why Justification Demands a Living Savior • A living Christ proves the sacrifice satisfied God’s justice (Isaiah 53:11). • His resurrection vindicates His sinlessness, allowing His righteousness to be credited to believers (2 Corinthians 5:21). • He now lives to intercede (Hebrews 7:25; Romans 8:34), ensuring our justified status can never be overturned. • Because He conquered death, He grants new life to those justified (1 Peter 1:3). Other Scriptures Confirm the Link • Acts 13:39—“Through Him everyone who believes is justified….” Proclaimed in the context of the resurrection (vv. 30–37). • Colossians 2:12-14—Buried and raised with Him; the result is sins forgiven and legal debt canceled. • 1 Corinthians 15:20—“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead,” establishing the guarantee of future resurrection for the justified. • John 11:25—“I am the resurrection and the life”; justification ushers believers into that life now and forever. Practical Implications for Us Today • Assurance—Justification rests on a historical, bodily resurrection, not on changing feelings. • Bold witness—We proclaim a risen, reigning Savior whose finished work truly saves (Romans 10:9). • Freedom from guilt—If God has declared us righteous, no accusation can stand (Romans 8:33-34). • Hope beyond the grave—The same power that raised Jesus guarantees our resurrection and vindication (1 Corinthians 6:14). |
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