Resurrection Case

This paper will compare Paul's teachings on resurrection as recorded in I Corinthians and the Thessalonian letters. We will examine the areas of agreement first and then the areas that appear to disagree. After the examination there will be a conclusion to state whether there are in fact inconsistencies in Paul's writing.

In I Corinthians Paul begins his discussion of the resurrection by reminding the people of the gospel. Specifically Paul says the gospel is that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures he was buried, and raised on the third day. Paul then sets forth the many resurrection appearances of Christ. Paul then uses Jesus resurrection as his foundational basis for all resurrection. If Christ is raised the others will be. If Christ is not raised then none will be.

In I Thessalonians Paul begins the resurrection discussion by reminding the Thessalonians that they have hope because Jesus died and rose again. They are not to grieve loved ones as if there is no hope. Paul reassures them that those who died in Christ would be raised first in the order of resurrection and that all in Christ would be called up to meet the Lord in the air. Paul advised that that the day of the Lord is unknown but that it will come like a thief in the night.

In II Thessalonians Paul warns of judgment at the time of Christ's coming. Paul states that those who do not know God and those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ will have vengeance inflicted upon them.