3. Jesus’ Death and Resurrection: The Centrepiece of Pauline Christology

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Introduction

The death and resurrection of Jesus stand at the heart of Paul’s proclamation that Jesus is the Christ. This article examines how Paul understands these events theologically and their foundational role in his gospel, focusing on justification, atonement, and victory over death.

1. Jesus’ Death as Atonement for Sin

  • Paul teaches that Christ “died for our sins according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3), identifying Jesus’ death as a sacrificial act fulfilling Old Testament prophecies, especially Isaiah 53.
  • In Romans 3:24-26, Paul explains that Jesus was “put forward as a propitiation by his blood,” satisfying divine justice and enabling God’s righteousness to be declared.
  • The death is substitutionary, bearing the curse of the Law (Galatians 3:13) and reconciling humanity to God.

2. The Burial: Affirming Historical Reality

  • Paul notes that Jesus was buried (1 Corinthians 15:4), affirming the historical reality of His death, countering claims that Jesus only appeared to die.

3. The Resurrection: Divine Vindication and Power

  • The resurrection is Paul’s central proof of Jesus’ messianic identity and divine sonship (Romans 1:4).
  • It demonstrates Jesus’ victory over sin, death, and cosmic powers (1 Corinthians 15:54-57).
  • Paul appeals to eyewitness testimonies of the risen Christ (1 Corinthians 15:5-8), grounding faith in historical reality.

4. The Resurrection and Justification by Faith

  • Paul links resurrection with justification, showing that Jesus’ resurrection validates His role as saviour and secures believers’ righteousness (Romans 4:25).
  • Resurrection inaugurates believers’ new life in the Spirit and future hope (Romans 6:4-5; 8:11).

Summary

Paul’s Christology is inseparable from the events of Jesus’ death and resurrection. The death accomplishes atonement, bearing sin and curse; the resurrection vindicates Jesus as the Messiah and inaugurates new life for believers. Together, they form the core of Paul’s gospel and proof that Jesus is the Christ.

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