1 Corinthians 15:1 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 15:1 mean?

1 Corinthians 15:1 means that Paul is reminding the Christians in Corinth about the message of good news (the gospel) that he had already preached to them, which they had accepted and now rely on as the foundation of their faith. Paul is setting the stage to talk more about the core truths of this message.

Paul, writing to the church in Corinth, calls them "brethren" to show their shared faith. He uses this moment to re-emphasize the importance of the gospel he first brought to them, making clear that this is not a new teaching but the same one they received and continue to stand on. This introduction prepares the readers for a detailed explanation of the gospel, especially about Jesus’ resurrection, which follows in the chapter.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 15:1

• "εὐαγγέλιον" (euangelion, G2098) means "gospel" or "good news." Paul uses this word to refer to the central message about Jesus Christ, which is the foundation of Christian belief.
• "παρέλαβετε" (parelabete, G3880) means "received." This word highlights that the Corinthians did not just hear the gospel—they accepted it and made it their own.
• "ἑστήκατε" (hestēkate, G2476) means "stand." In this context, it suggests that the Corinthians’ faith and spiritual life are grounded in this gospel, not just something they once heard but something they continue to rely on.

Why 1 Corinthians 15:1 matters

• This verse reminds readers that the gospel is not just information but something to be received and stood upon, showing its ongoing importance in a believer’s life.
• Paul’s emphasis on having already preached and the Corinthians having already received the gospel helps clear up any idea that he is introducing new teachings or changing the message.
• The verse sets up the rest of 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul will explain the resurrection and its importance, showing that everything he is about to say is rooted in the original gospel message.