The Danger of an "Almost There" Faith
1 Corinthians 15:1-19
Summary
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul addresses those who have heard and received the gospel yet have not fully embraced its central truth. Some in Corinth denied the resurrection, revealing a faith that had begun but not truly taken hold. Paul reminds them that the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ are of first importance, grounded in Scripture and confirmed by eyewitnesses. If Christ has not been raised, our faith is futile and we remain in our sins. This passage calls us to examine whether our faith rests firmly in the risen Christ or if we are still only almost there.
Quotes
“But how was he so eminently fitted thus to preach? His first and most important, and indeed, indispensable qualification for this work, was, that he himself knew Christ. He had not only that knowledge which is attained by the study of Scriptures, and learning that is therein revealed concerning the person and work of Christ, but that knowledge which is due to the inward revelation by the Spirit.”
–Charles Hodge speaking at the funeral service of James Waddel Alexander, October 9, 1859
Summary
In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul addresses those who have heard and received the gospel yet have not fully embraced its central truth. Some in Corinth denied the resurrection, revealing a faith that had begun but not truly taken hold. Paul reminds them that the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ are of first importance, grounded in Scripture and confirmed by eyewitnesses. If Christ has not been raised, our faith is futile and we remain in our sins. This passage calls us to examine whether our faith rests firmly in the risen Christ or if we are still only almost there.
- Discussion Questions
Paul warns about believing “in vain.” What do you think that looks like in real life today? - Why is the resurrection not just important, but essential to the Christian faith?
- The Corinthians were not hostile to the gospel, just unconvinced or indifferent about the resurrection. Where do you see that same attitude today, or even in your own heart?
- What is the difference between knowing about the gospel and truly resting in it?
- Paul appeals to both Scripture and eyewitness testimony. Why do both matter for our faith?
- In what ways might someone be “almost there” spiritually but not fully trusting Christ?
- How does the truth of the resurrection change the way we think about sin, death, and hope?
- Paul says that if Christ is not raised, we are still in our sins. Why is the resurrection necessary for our salvation?
- Have you personally come to the “empty tomb,” meaning have you trusted in the risen Christ? How would you describe that in your own life?
- What would it look like for you this week to more fully live in light of the resurrection?
Quotes
“But how was he so eminently fitted thus to preach? His first and most important, and indeed, indispensable qualification for this work, was, that he himself knew Christ. He had not only that knowledge which is attained by the study of Scriptures, and learning that is therein revealed concerning the person and work of Christ, but that knowledge which is due to the inward revelation by the Spirit.”
–Charles Hodge speaking at the funeral service of James Waddel Alexander, October 9, 1859
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