Lutheran Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Lutheran Lens Reading of 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as the Apostle Paul's proclamation of the Gospel in its purity. It begins with a reminder of the Gospel Paul preached, which is the foundation of our faith, and transitions into a powerful testimony of Christ's resurrection. This is Gospel in its purest form—Christ died for our sins and was raised for our justification. Here, Paul delivers the Gospel as the unconditional promise of salvation through Christ alone, a message that we uphold as central to our preaching and teaching. The resurrection is not merely an event of the past but is the living reality proclaimed to us that assures our justification by faith alone.

Key Language Decisions

In Greek, the term 'εὐαγγέλιον' (euangelion) used in verse 1 is crucial as it refers to the 'Good News' or Gospel, which we emphasize as the message of Christ's completed work for us. The verb 'ἐγήγερται' (egēgertai), meaning 'has been raised,' in verse 4 is in the perfect tense, underscoring the ongoing significance of Christ's resurrection—a continuous reality that affirms our hope and salvation. These language choices highlight the enduring nature of the Gospel as both historical event and present assurance.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike traditions that might emphasize human decision or effort in response to the Gospel, we maintain that this passage proclaims God's unilateral action in Christ. Traditions like Arminianism stress human free will in accepting salvation, while we assert that faith itself is a gift of the Holy Spirit. This distinction is vital because it preserves the Gospel as pure gift, free from any human merit or contribution.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this passage, we must emphasize the Gospel as the foundation of our faith and life, highlighting Christ's death and resurrection as the ultimate assurance of our salvation. We should remind our congregations that faith is not a work but a gift, and that through Word and Sacrament, we receive the benefits of Christ's redemptive work. Our pastoral task is to proclaim this Gospel boldly, ensuring that our hearers understand their identity as baptized children of God, living in the grace of justification by faith alone. Our congregation expects to hear the clear distinction between Law and Gospel, where the Law shows our need, and the Gospel delivers Christ's sufficiency.

Cross-References: Romans 4:25; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:10-11; 1 Peter 3:18; John 11:25

Doctrinal Connections: justification by faith alone; the means of grace; the theology of the cross; simul justus et peccator; the resurrection as assurance of salvation