15:15 15:15

1 Corinthians 15:16

15:17 15:17

Bible Versions

For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:
For {G1063} if {G1487} the dead {G3498} rise {G1453} not {G3756}, then is {G1453} not {G3761} Christ {G5547} raised {G1453}:
For if the dead are not raised, then the Messiah has not been raised either;
For if the dead are not raised, then not even Christ has been raised.
For if the dead are not raised, neither hath Christ been raised:

1 Corinthians 15:16 is a pivotal verse in the Apostle Paul's robust defense of the resurrection, asserting a direct logical link between the general resurrection of the dead and the historical resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Context

This verse is part of a lengthy and crucial discourse in 1 Corinthians chapter 15, where Paul addresses doubts and denials of the resurrection among some believers in the Corinthian church. Influenced perhaps by prevailing Greek philosophical thought that often disdained the idea of a bodily resurrection, some within the community struggled with this core Christian doctrine. Paul systematically argues that denying the resurrection of the dead inherently undermines the historical fact and theological significance of Christ's own resurrection, which is the very cornerstone of Christian faith and hope.

Key Themes

  • The Inseparable Link: Paul presents an undeniable logical connection: if there is no resurrection of the dead at all (as some argued), then Christ himself could not have been raised. This verse, along with 1 Corinthians 15:13, forms a critical part of his reductio ad absurdum argument, demonstrating the absurd and faith-destroying consequences of denying the resurrection.
  • The Foundation of Christian Faith: The verse powerfully underscores that the resurrection of Christ is not merely an isolated event but the "firstfruits" and guarantee of a future resurrection for all believers (1 Corinthians 15:20). Denying the general resurrection effectively pulls the rug out from under the entire Christian hope, rendering faith meaningless and preaching in vain (1 Corinthians 15:14).
  • Hope Beyond the Grave: For believers, this verse reinforces the profound hope that death is not the end. Because Christ lives, those who are in Him will also live, offering a victorious perspective on mortality and the future.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's "For if... then is not..." clearly translates the Greek conditional statement, `ei de nekroi ouk egeirontai, oude Christos egegertai`. This structure emphasizes the direct, logical consequence Paul intends. The verb `egeirontai` (rise/raised) is consistently used for both the general dead and Christ, highlighting the parallelism and interconnectedness Paul establishes between Christ's resurrection and the future resurrection of believers.

Practical Application

1 Corinthians 15:16 challenges believers to firmly grasp the reality and centrality of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It offers immense comfort and assurance, knowing that our faith is not in vain and that our future is secured by Christ's victory over death. This truth empowers us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that death is not the final word, but a transition to eternal life with God, echoing the promise of Romans 8:11. Our hope is anchored in a living Savior who conquered the grave, guaranteeing the same for His followers.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

No cross-references found for this verse.

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