1 Corinthians 15: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 1 Corinthians 15 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul declares the gospel he preached, stating that believers are saved if they hold firmly to it (vv. 1-2). He recounts that Christ died for sins, was buried, and raised on the third day, appearing to many, including the apostles and himself (vv.

Key verse

“For if the dead aren’t raised, neither has Christ been raised.”
1 Corinthians 15:16 (WEB)

Outline

1 Corinthians 15:1–2 Paul Declares the Gospel
1 Corinthians 15:3–11 The Resurrection of Christ
1 Corinthians 15:12–19 Consequences of Denying Resurrection
1 Corinthians 15:20–28 Christ as the First Fruits
1 Corinthians 15:29–34 Arguments for the Resurrection
1 Corinthians 15:35–49 Nature of Resurrection Bodies
1 Corinthians 15:50–58 Victory Over Death

Discussion questions

In v3, what does Paul say Christ died for?
What does Paul mean by 'first fruits' in v20?
The phrase 'I die daily' in v31: what is Paul conveying about his daily life?
The question about being 'baptized for the dead' in v29: what confusion might this raise?
When have you felt your work or effort 'not in vain' as stated in v58?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 1 Corinthians 15: Galatians 6, Romans 8, Philippians 2.

Before next time: read 1 Corinthians 16.