1 Corinthians - Chapters 15-16 - The Climax

The climax of this letter, and the climax of the Christian faith, is that Jesus Christ died for our sins. He was buried, and He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures (vs. 3-8). Plus, at the time of Paul's letter, some of the eyewitnesses of Jesus' resurrection were still alive. Some people said there was no resurrection, and Paul said in verse 19, "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men," and in verse 32b, "If the dead are not raised, 'Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die." The church had accepted this truth of the gospel when Paul was there, and he encouraged them to stay in the faith. Paul continued to explain the order of the resurrection was Christ, the firstfruits; then, when He comes, those who belong to Jesus, and then the end will come when Jesus conquers death, the last great enemy, and He hands the kingdom to God the Father. Paul takes a few moments to explain how our bodies, which the Lord made, will be changed: the perishable will be imperishable, and the mortal will become immortal - Thanks be to God! Paul said in verse 58, "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." Chapter 16 deals with "housekeeping" issues: collecting an offering, Paul's agenda, their care for Timothy when he comes, and the possible visit of Apollos. The church where Paul is, sends greeting, as do Aquila and Pricilla. Paul ends with the grace of the Lord Jesus and his love to all who are in Christ Jesus.