The Church Is Proof That Christ Is Risen (Part 1) Series

Series: THE REALITY OF THE RESURRECTION

THE CHURCH IS PROOF THAT JESUS IS RISEN - (Part 1)

I Corinthians 15:1-2

(Antioch Baptist Church: Wednesday, February 24th, 2026)

Conspiracy theories are nothing new, but with the invention of the internet and social media, these theories are more prevalent than ever. There are a number of theories surrounding the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Others believe there was a cover up concerning the terror attacks of September 11th, 2001. Some believe that certain secret societies control the world. There are people who believe that the moon landings were faked and that the earth is flat. Almost 50 years after his death, many people are still convinced that Elvis Presley is alive.

The actual truth behind these “theories” has no real impact on our daily lives. But there are some who allege that Jesus Christ did not rise from the grave; this is a subject that that has serious implications concerning one’s eternal destiny.

We can agree to disagree about many doctrines in the Bible; however, the resurrection is a central and non-negotiable doctrine. The scriptures declare that one cannot by saved if they deny the reality of Christ’s resurrection. Paul said in Romans 10:9, “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

In I Corinthians chapter fifteen, Paul presents a comprehensive argument in favor of the future, literal, bodily resurrection of Believers. In the process, the Apostle delivers a dynamic defense of Christ’s own resurrection. This is fitting because (as we will learn in this chapter) we would have no hope whatsoever if Christ had not risen. But praise God “Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

In a court of law, certain documents, photos, animations, and other devices that are formally introduced as evidence are called “exhibits”. As Paul defends the doctrine of the resurrection, he submits several “exhibits” (or pieces of evidence) that prove the reality of Christ’s resurrection. He presents the scriptures and Jesus’ fulfillment of prophecy as evidence. He mentions the fact that after Jesus rose from the grave that He was seen by Peter, James, and the rest of the Apostles. He also declares that Jesus was once seen by over 500 of His followers at one time. Finally Paul inserts a personal testimony of the resurrection, saying that “last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.”

When examining the entirety of Paul’s defense, it is apparent that he has presented overwhelming evidence that Jesus Christ lived, died, was buried, and rose again. However, there is one more piece of evidence in this passage that is often overlooked. I am referring to the fact that the Corinthian Christians were living proof that Jesus is alive. This is true for all Christians past, present and future.

The Corinthians heard the gospel message, received it, and responded by putting their faith in Jesus. Paul says “Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand”. The Christians at Corinth were proof of the power of the Gospel and the reality of Christ’s resurrection. Likewise, we who are “in Christ” are visible, living proof that Jesus is alive. As the old hymn says:

““I serve a risen Savior, He’s in the world today.

I know that He is living, Whatever men may say.

I see His hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer,

And just the time I need Him, He’s always near.

He Lives! He Lives! Christ Jesus lives today!

He Walks with me, And talks with me,

Along life’s narrow way.

He Lives! He Lives! Salvation to impart.

You ask me how I know He lives,

He lives within my heart!””

There are multitudes of people in the world today who scoff at the idea that the Son of God lived, died, and rose again; but we are evidence that the resurrection is a reality. I would like for us to take the next few weeks and consider several different truths that serve as evidence that should prove beyond any reasonable doubt that Jesus is alive. Furthermore, because He lives, we have the assurance that we will live eternally!

- I would like to examine the evidence that Paul presents and show you that:

The Church Is Proof That Jesus Is Risen

Each of you made a conscious decision to come to church today. We call this structure a church building. The sign out front says Antioch Baptist Church. However, this building is not “the church”, it is simply the location where this segment of Christ’s Church meets to worship Him. Ultimately the Church is the universal assembly of Christ’s people. (Those whom Paul describes in Ephesians as “the Body” and “the Bride” of Christ.)