1 Corinthians 15:20-34 highlights Christ’s resurrection as the “firstfruits” of those who will be raised, affirming the defeat of death through Him. Paul explains the order of resurrection: Christ first, then His followers at His return. He emphasizes the ultimate victory when all things are subjected to God, ending with death’s final defeat. This passage calls believers to live in light of the resurrection’s reality and to reject sin and false teachings.

Paul reaffirms the gospel message, focusing on Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection as foundational truths. He emphasizes that Christ’s resurrection was witnessed by many, including himself, underscoring its authenticity. Paul then argues that if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised, which would render the Christian faith meaningless and leave believers still in their sins.

Paul makes a slight tangent in his discussion of spiritual gifts to deal with how that love should be the motive by which these gifts are practiced. He also discusses the temporary nature of gifts when compared to the enduring, eternal quality of love.

Paul continues teaching concerning spiritual gifts giving an anatomical metaphor of the body of Christ. He concludes this part of his discussion urging them to seek the exercising of the greater gifts.

Paul moves to another subject dealing with the Corinthian misuse and understanding of spiritual gifts. In this section he points out that even though there are many gifts, they are given by the same Spirit for the unified benefit of the body of Christ.

Paul switches gears to discuss how the Corinthians were improperly celebrating the “Lord’s Supper”. He renews his previous instructions and warns them of the present dangers for their callous manner of observation of it.