If Christ Has Not Been Raised

1 Corinthians 15:12-19

April 27, 2025
Life After Death: Why the Resurrection Matters

• Review the sermon from Sunday. What was the big idea? Was there a specific insight or illustration that stood out to you?

• Start by reading the whole passage: 1 Cor 15:12-19. Paul is using some dense logic. Try to untangle it: what is Paul’s main point about the resurrection of Jesus?

• Read vv. 12-13 again. What does Paul mean by the “resurrection of the dead?” How is this connected to Jesus’ resurrection? Why does this matter?

• Read vv. 14-15 again. Collin quoted Tim Keller: “If Jesus rose from the dead, you have to accept all he said; if he didn’t, why worry about any of it?” Is this statement supported by the passage? Do you agree with it? Why/why not? 

• Collin argued that, without the resurrection, the gospel is not only a foolish idea, but a dangerous one. Why would that be? How should this shape the way we see and share our faith?

• Read vv. 16-19 again. Paul says that, without the resurrection, our faith is “futile.” What reasons does he give for that claim? What reasons could you add? What does this tell us about the nature of faith and spiritual growth?

• Read v. 20. Verses 12-19 paint a bleak picture of a world without the resurrection. So take a moment to discuss the question, “But what if the tomb is empty?"

• Pray for a growing understanding of and appreciation for the resurrection to lead you and our church into spiritual revival.