Scripture: 1 Corinthians 15:56

1. Main Theme

The sermon emphasizes the certainty of final victory in Christ. Though death is presented as a dark and powerful force, it is ultimately defeated through Jesus. The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law, but surrendering to Christ brings victory.

2. Key Scripture References

• 1 Corinthians 15:52-55 – The resurrection of the dead and the final victory over death.

• 1 Corinthians 15:56 – “The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law.”

• Romans 6:23 – “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

• 1 John 2:1 – Jesus is our advocate when we sin.

• Galatians 3:24 – The law as a tutor leading us to Christ.

3. Key Points

• Death is only final if sin remains in our lives.

• Sin gives power to death, but Christ removes its sting.

• Victory comes not by our strength but by surrendering to God.

• God has given us time to share His message before the final judgment.

4. Our Message: What is God telling us?

• God’s plan is for us to have victory over sin and death through Christ.

• We should not fear death if we are in Christ.

• Jesus has already paid for our sins—our role is to accept His forgiveness and live in His righteousness.

Reflection Questions:

1. What does it mean for death to be defeated in Christ?

2. How can we avoid the sting of sin in our daily lives?

3. What does surrendering to God look like in practical terms?

5. Our Conduct: How should we live?

• Live with an eternal perspective, not fearing death.

• Be diligent in repentance, ensuring sin does not have power over us.

• Walk in humility, recognizing that victory comes through faith, not our efforts.

Reflection Questions:

1. In what ways can we align our lives with God’s will and avoid sin?

2. How can we encourage others to seek Christ’s victory over death?

3. Are there areas in our lives where we still try to control rather than surrendering to God?

6. Practical Application: How do we apply this today?

• Daily repentance and reliance on God’s grace.

• Encouraging and sharing the gospel with those who haven’t heard it.

• Living in confidence that Christ has already won the battle.

Reflection Questions:

1. How can we use our daily experiences to testify about Christ’s victory?

2. What steps can we take to overcome sin and its effects in our lives?

3. How can we be more intentional in sharing the message of hope with others?

7. Personal Commitment: What should we commit to?

• Trust in God’s promise that “it will end well.”

• Surrender all areas of life to Him, allowing Him to fight our battles.

• Be active in sharing the message of salvation before the final trumpet sounds.

Reflection Questions:

1. What areas of your life do you need to fully surrender to God?

2. How can you grow in faith to trust in God’s victory?

3. Who can you reach out to with the message of Christ’s victory?

8. Prayer Points

1. Thanksgiving for Christ’s victory over sin and death.

2. A heart of humility and surrender to God’s will.

3. Strength and courage to share the gospel before the final day.

Closing Blessing:

“May the Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24-26)

This sermon powerfully reminds us that our final victory is assured in Christ. The question is: Are we ready for His return?