Basics of the Gospel

3For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance : that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve.6After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. (1 Corinthians 15)

Thoughts: Let's break down this passage, for this is the Gospel:
1) "Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures."  Christ was the Passover Lamb- the sacrifice that takes away our sins.  We sinned, but He paid the price.  The whole idea of sacrifice, paying a ransom (Mk. 10:45).
2) "That He was buried." The burial is a bit strange to us, and does not seem to be on the same level as the death and resurrection of Christ.  Yet the burial of Christ assures and puts a seal on his death.  There were some who thought Christ really didn't die- that he only appeared to die.  But the burial assures the death did really happen.  
3) That he was raised on the third day according to the scriptures- The Old Testament seemed to predict the Messiah would rise from the dead.  (Psalm 16:10; 49).  
4) That he appeared.  He appeared to many.  This was not just an illusion to one or two.  He appeared to over 500 at once.  Included in this list is an appearance to Paul.  
These are all important pieces of the Gospel of Christ.  

Prayer: Lord, may my faith grow in the truth of your grace.  Thank you for your death and life for me and for those who believe in you.