1 Corinthians 15:3 – “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is one of the clearest and most direct statements of the gospel in the Bible. Paul is reminding the Corinthians of the central message of the Christian faith: Jesus Christ died for our sins. He emphasizes that this truth is not something he invented but something he “received” and faithfully “passed on.” This means that Paul was not the source of the gospel; he was a messenger delivering something given to him by God.

The phrase “of first importance” shows that this is the foundation of Christian belief. There are many teachings in the Bible, but nothing is more critical than the fact that Jesus died for our sins. Without this truth, there is no gospel and no salvation.

Paul also says that Christ’s death happened “according to the Scriptures.” This means Jesus’ death was not an accident or a tragedy—it was planned by God and foretold in the Old Testament. His sacrifice was the fulfillment of prophecies, showing that God had been working out His plan of salvation from the beginning.

Historical Context

Paul was writing to the church in Corinth, a city influenced by Greek philosophy and pagan religions. Some Corinthians may have struggled with the idea that Jesus’ death could be the key to salvation. Greek thought often viewed physical suffering and death as weakness, making it hard for some to accept a crucified Savior.

Paul’s words remind them that Jesus’ death was not a failure but a fulfillment of God’s plan. This message was not just for them but for all people, including Jews who expected a political Messiah rather than a suffering servant. The idea that Christ had to die for sins was a radical but essential teaching.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several core truths about the Christian faith:

1. Jesus’ death was necessary for salvation – Sin separates people from God, and the only way to restore that relationship was through the sacrifice of Christ.
2. Jesus died “for our sins” – His death was not just an example of love or an act of courage. It was a substitutionary sacrifice—He took the punishment that we deserved.
3. The gospel is based on revelation, not human invention – Paul did not create this message; he received it and faithfully delivered it.
4. The Old Testament foretold Jesus’ death – The gospel is not a new idea but the fulfillment of God’s plan as revealed in Scripture.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording is simple but powerful. The phrase “what I received I passed on” reflects a tradition of carefully preserving and sharing truth. This is not a casual statement—it carries the weight of a sacred message.

The phrase “of first importance” highlights priority. Paul is making it clear that this truth must not be ignored or replaced with lesser teachings. The gospel stands above all other knowledge.

The structure of the sentence places the focus on Christ. He is the subject; His death is the action. The phrase “for our sins” makes His sacrifice personal and specific.

Biblical Cross-References

• Isaiah 53:5 – “But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.” (A prophecy about Christ’s suffering.)
• Matthew 26:28 – Jesus said, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
• Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
• 2 Corinthians 5:21 – “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For believers today, this verse is a clear reminder of what truly matters. Christianity is not just about morals, traditions, or good works—it is about Jesus Christ dying for our sins.

Many people try to redefine the gospel, making it about personal fulfillment, social justice, or religious rules. But Paul makes it clear: the heart of the Christian message is that Christ died to save sinners. If we lose sight of that, we lose the gospel itself.

This verse also challenges us to hold fast to the true gospel, just as Paul did. We must not water it down or add to it. Instead, we should receive it, believe it, and pass it on to others.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse reveals God’s incredible love. He did not leave humanity to suffer the consequences of sin but provided a way for people to be saved. Jesus’ death was not forced upon Him—He willingly laid down His life out of love (John 10:18).

God’s love is not just sentimental; it is sacrificial. He loved us enough to send His Son to die in our place. This love is deeper than any human love, because it cost God everything and gives us everything in return.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

This verse is entirely centered on Jesus. Without Christ, there is no gospel, no salvation, and no hope. He is the one who died, and He is the one who makes salvation possible.

Other verses that emphasize Christ’s role:

• John 1:29 – “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (Jesus as the sacrificial lamb.)
• Hebrews 9:22 – “Without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.” (Jesus’ death was necessary.)
• 1 Peter 2:24 – “He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness.” (Christ’s sacrifice brings transformation.)

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Paul calls this message “of first importance”?
2. How does understanding that Jesus died “for our sins” change the way you view His sacrifice?
3. Some people see Jesus’ death as just an example of love. How does this verse show that His death was much more than that?
4. How does this verse challenge people who think they can be saved by their good deeds?
5. If this message is so important, what are some ways you can pass it on to others?