In 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, Paul gives us a succinctly pristine articulation of the Gospel (a sort of beginning form of the Apostles’ Creed):
“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures (1Co 15:3-4).”
Here we’re told where our dogma ought to lay its greatest emphasis. What Paul is delivering unto the Corinthians, and all the rest of us, is that which is of first importance. This is truth of the first order. Doctrine of highest priority. The crown jewel of all philosophy: Christ died, was buried, and resurrected.
These historical events aren’t only of first importance, they are also in accordance with the Scriptures. Meaning, that what Jesus did takes you back through all the windings of history. He wasn’t a roving prophet who wandered haphazardly into the spotlight only to fade from history once His life ended. Rather, the life of Jesus is the climax of the entire story of Scripture.
So then, how does Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection being both of first importance and in Scriptural accordance bring hope to you? First, it tells you how to order your entire life, mind, and emotions. Why are you alive? It is so that you may know and enjoy fellowship with God through Christ, and so rest in the peace of His sovereign presence. Secondly, it tells you that history isn’t a senseless series of disordered events. It tells you that God has personally superintended all details, events, and turnings of history; arranging them to bring about your salvation & His glorification.
This is what this bread and wine testify to. Here is the most important thing in the world: the life of Jesus. Here is main point of the story of history: Christ, given for you.
So come in faith and welcome to Jesus Christ…
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