If the gospel is not true, then not only is the
foundation of the gospel empty, but its effects are worthless (v.17
NASB). The word “worthless” means to be idle, empty, fruitless,
useless, powerless, lacking truth. The twin effects of the gospel,
faith and forgiveness, are meaningless.
Even being personally related to God by faith is
nothing more than an idle fantasy. Prayer is only self-talk. There is
no such thing as companionship with God. We are simply taking a long
walk by ourselves. As far as forgiveness is concerned, there are
psychiatrists and crisis counsellors available for those troubled by
severe introspection.
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III. The future of the gospel is a mirage. (v. 18-19)
A final consequence involves the future.
Christians have hope of seeing their dead loved ones again. If the
gospel is not true, this hope is pitiful indeed. One, because there
will be no glad reunion. And two, because one’s present existence is
a mirage instead of real. Better to get and experience everything
that this life has to offer because the future is unknown.
I saw a bumper sticker recently that said: “Since
I gave up hope I feel much better.” The philosophy behind this
statement sums up Paul’s words in verse nineteen. It is better not to
have high expectations of the future so as not to suffer
psychological let down in the here and now.
The gospel must confront its own “truth or
consequences.” What if the gospel is not true? The consequences are
stark indeed. But wait a minute. Paul does not end his argument here.
He strongly rejects the premise that the gospel is empty,
meaningless, and a mirage. It is as if he lifts a trumpet and declares
that “Now” Christ has been raised from the dead (v. 20)! The gospel
is true. The scriptures declare it. The apostles declare it. Over five
hundred eyewitnesses declare it. Paul himself declares it (vv. 3-11).
Believers for 2,000 years have been declaring it. What about you?
__________Sermon brief provided by
Mike McGough, Director of Student Affairs and Professor of Preaching
& Pastoral Ministries, Canadian Southern Baptist Seminary,
Cochrane, Alberta, Canada.