Traditional Lens Commentary: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Traditional Lens Reading of 1 Corinthians 15:1-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 as a foundational proclamation of the gospel, affirming the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ as the core of our faith. Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached, which we understand as the substitutionary atonement of Christ — where He bore the wrath of God on the cross for our sins. This passage emphasizes the historicity and centrality of the resurrection, which is essential for our justification and eternal hope.

Key Language Decisions

In the original Greek, the word 'gospel' (εὐαγγέλιον) is pivotal, emphasizing the good news of Christ's victory over sin and death. The term 'delivered' (παρέδωκα) underlines the tradition passed down by the apostles, highlighting its divine authority and continuity. The 'received' (παραλαμβάνω) indicates the initial acceptance of this apostolic message, affirming the transformative power of the gospel in the believer's life.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike traditions that might view the resurrection as primarily symbolic, we affirm its literal and historical reality, as testified by the eyewitnesses mentioned by Paul. Certain liberal theological perspectives may downplay the penal substitution aspect of the atonement, whereas we uphold it as central to understanding Christ's redemptive work. These differences matter because they affect the authority of Scripture and the essence of the gospel message.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we must proclaim the gospel as of 'first importance' — the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. This passage calls us to emphasize the assurance of salvation and the hope of resurrection, urging our congregation to stand firm in the faith. The transformative power of the gospel should lead to lives that reflect Christ's victory over sin. Our congregations expect to hear about the necessity of personal faith and the power of the resurrection in our daily walk with Christ, encouraging them to hold fast to the truth handed down from the apostles.

Cross-References: Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 1:3; Galatians 1:9; Acts 2:24; 2 Timothy 2:8

Doctrinal Connections: substitutionary atonement; justification by faith; the resurrection of the dead; the authority of Scripture; apostolic tradition