Summary
Paul opens by reminding the Corinthians of the gospel he preached: Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection—verified by many witnesses including Peter, the apostles, and Paul himself. He rebuts those denying the resurrection, pointing out that such denial undermines Christ’s victory and the believers’ faith. Paul explains the nature of the resurrection, contrasting the corrupt, natural body with the incorrupt, spiritual body that believers will receive. He stresses that Christ is the firstfruits of those who have died, and that all will eventually be raised at the end when Christ reigns and defeats death. The chapter concludes with an exhortation to steadfastness, assuring the Corinthians that their labor in the Lord is not in vain.