1 Corinthians 15:3-4 For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;… The phrase "first of all" means not only first in point of time, but first in point of importance. If we ask why? the answer is that Christ's death is — I. AN UNANSWERABLE PROOF OF THE HUMANITY OF OUR LORD. It declares Him "Son of Man," and therefore not a phantom too high for fellowship and following. A conviction of this ought to be grasped by us, "first of all," because it is essential to our regarding Him — 1. As Redeemer. 2. As Friend. 3. As Example. II. THE STRONGEST UTTERANCE OF DIVINE LOVE. In following the life of Jesus we gaze on God's love in unwearied toil, in patient endurance, in keenest sympathy, in bitter tears. But gazing on Christ's death we see Divine love in agony, humiliation, shame. Man's highest love to God was when Abram offered his only son Isaac; God's deepest love to man is seen in giving His only begotten Son in sacrifice on Calvary. III. THE MIGHTIEST FORCE IN THE SALVATION OF THE WORLD. 1. He Himself relied on it: "I, if I be lifted up, wilt draw all men." 2. The influence of His death on many at the crucifixion illustrates it. 3. The history of Christianity testifies to it. (U. R. Thomas.) Parallel Verses KJV: For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; |
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