The Implications of the Empty Tomb

Jim Butler1 Corinthians 15:12–19

Paul's argument in 1 Corinthians 15:12–19 exposes the logical consequences of denying the bodily resurrection of Christ: apostolic preaching collapses into myth, Christian faith becomes an empty sentiment fixed on no real object, the apostles are liars, sin remains unatoned, and believers are the most pitiable of all creatures. The sermon surveys ancient and modern attacks on the resurrection — the stolen-body theory, the swoon theory, Gnosticism, Sadducean theology, Hymenaeanism, and contemporary archaeological sensationalism — before working through Paul's five implications positively. The central application is that because Christ is truly risen, justification is secured, the apostolic witness is vindicated, and the Christian hope extends beyond this age into a bodily resurrection that far surpasses any 'best life now.'