Paul reminds the Corinthians, “For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures.” The death of Jesus was the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan, as foretold in the Scriptures. Christ died for our sins, taking our punishment upon Himself. This was the ultimate act of love, and it was necessary for our salvation. But the resurrection affirms that His sacrifice was accepted by God and that death has been defeated. The resurrection completes the work of redemption, showing that Jesus is both the Savior and the conqueror of death. His resurrection is the guarantee that His sacrifice was effective and that we are forgiven. It calls us to respond in faith, trusting in His atoning work and looking forward to the resurrection that awaits us.