1 Corinthians 15:13
But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:
Original Language Analysis
ἀνάστασις
resurrection
G386
ἀνάστασις
resurrection
Strong's:
G386
Word #:
3 of 9
a standing up again, i.e., (literally) a resurrection from death (individual, genitive case or by implication, (its author)), or (figuratively) a (mor
Cross References
Romans 8:11But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.1 Thessalonians 4:14For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.Revelation 1:18I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.1 Peter 1:3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
Historical Context
Paul's argument structure reflects his rabbinic training under Gamaliel (Acts 22:3). Jewish rabbinic debate employed similar logical reductions. Yet he writes in Greek rhetorical style for a Gentile audience, demonstrating his missional adaptability (1 Corinthians 9:19-22).
Questions for Reflection
- Why is Christ's resurrection inseparable from our resurrection—why can't Christ's be unique?
- How does Paul's logical argument demonstrate that Christianity stands or falls on historical claims?
- What does this teach about the importance of defending the faith with reason and evidence?
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Analysis & Commentary
But if there be no resurrection of the dead (εἰ δὲ ἀνάστασις νεκρῶν οὐκ ἔστιν)—Paul constructs a *reductio ad absurdum* argument. He assumes the opponents' premise (no resurrection) and demonstrates it leads to absurd, unacceptable conclusions. This is sophisticated Greco-Roman logical argumentation, showing Paul's rhetorical training.
Then is Christ not risen (οὐδὲ Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται)—The logic is inexorable. If resurrection is metaphysically impossible, Christ couldn't have risen either. The Corinthians' position—Christ rose uniquely, but believers won't—is philosophically untenable. Christ's resurrection is either the *firstfruits* (v. 20) guaranteeing the harvest, or it didn't happen. There's no middle ground. Resurrection is not Christ's private miracle but the inauguration of new creation.