Intermediate Logic Unit 4 teaches how to apply the tools we have learned in logic to real-life arguments. One such argument is contained in 1 Cor. 15:12-20, in which Paul argues that Christ has been raised from the dead, and as such He is the firstfruits of the general resurrection to come.

There are many points to Paul’s argument, but the main one is from verses 13, 16, and 20:

“If there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen…But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”

This argument can be symbolized as follows (C = Christ is risen, R = There is a resurrection of the dead):

~R ⊃ ~C    C     ∴   R

You can use the tools of truth table, truth tree, or formal proof to demonstrate that Paul’s argument is valid.

There are several other arguments in 1 Cor. 15:12-20, but the others leave premises assumed, so they take additional effort to analyze. But it is a beneficial exercise to work through them. Look at Exercise 28b.

Have a blessed Good Friday!