7/31 1 Corinthians 15:3

3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures


This verse begins a passage that is one of the earliest records of the beliefs of the early church. Biblical scholars believe it developed within three years of Jesus' crucifixion. Critics of the Bible have claimed that the beliefs of the church drastically changed over time. But this early account is what we still believe two thousand years later.

It begins by saying that Jesus died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures. The early church saw Jesus' death for our sins as the fulfillment of prophecies. This passage goes on to say that Jesus was buried and raised on the third day according to prophecies. After Jesus' resurrection He appeared to Peter, the twelve disciples, James, and five hundred people at one time. Paul adds that Jesus also appeared to him.

The early church knew the mission of Jesus was to die for our sins. They saw His death and resurrection as the fulfillment of Scripture. They knew He was alive because of all the eyewitnesses. Our beliefs on these core issues have never changed. These are the essential truths that unite the followers of Jesus.

Consider: Are these the main doctrines that you emphasize? Are these the issues that unite you with those in other denominations?