This exegetical paper by Matthew Kirk, submitted to Dr. Robert Cara for NT5100 – Greek Exegesis at Reformed Theological Seminary – Charlotte, provides an in-depth grammatical and theological analysis of 1 Corinthians 15:1–5. Kirk explores Paul’s articulation of the gospel’s foundation—Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection—and the meaning of the phrase ἐν πρώτοις (“of first importance”).
Through meticulous Greek analysis, Kirk argues that ἐν πρώτοις should be understood as “among the prominent things,” emphasizing the preeminence of Christ’s redemptive work without excluding other core doctrines. The paper traces how Paul’s formulation functions as an early creed, highlighting the continuity of the apostolic message and the centrality of the resurrection to Christian faith.
Kirk concludes that Paul’s gospel centers on the historical and theological reality of Christ’s resurrection as the climactic fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan—a truth that anchors all other doctrines within the Christian faith.
Course and semester: NT5100 Greek Exegesis — 2022