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1 Corinthians 15:45
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- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The first man Adam was made a living soul - These forms of expression are also common among the Jews: hence we find אדם הראשון Adam harishon, "Adam the first;" and אדם קדמאי Adam kadmai, " Adam the last." They assert that there are two Adams: 1. The mystical heavenly Adam; and 2. The mystical earthly Adam. See Sohar Exod., fol. 29; and the several examples in Schoettgen. The apostle says this is written: The first man Adam was made a living soul: this is found Gen 2:7, in the words נשמת חיים nishmath chaiyim, the breath of lives; which the apostle translates ψυχην ζωσαν, a living soul. The last Adam - a quickening spirit - This is also said to be written; but where, says Dr. Lightfoot, is this written in the whole sacred book? Schoettgen replies, In the very same verse, and in these words: ויהי האדם לנפש חיה vayehi ha - Adam lėnephesh chaiyah, and Adam became a living soul; which the apostle translates πνευμα ζωοποιουν, a quickening, or life-giving spirit. Among the cabalistic Jews נפש nephesh is considered as implying greater dignity than נשמה nishma. The former may be considered as pointing out the rational, the latter the sensitive soul. All these references to Jewish opinions and forms of speech the apostle uses to convince them that the thing was possible; and that the resurrection of the body was generally credited by all their wise and learned men. The Jews, as Dr. Lightfoot observes, speak frequently of the Spirit of the Messiah; and they allow that it was this Spirit that moved on the face of the waters, Gen 1:2. And they assert that the Messiah shall quicken those who dwell in the dust. "It ought not to be passed by," says the same author, "that Adam, receiving from God the promise of Christ - The seed of the woman shall bruise the head of the serpent, and believing it, named his wife חוה Chauvah, that is, life; so the Septuagint, και εκαλεσεν Αδαμ το ονονα της γυναικος αυτου Ζωη· And Adam called the name of his wife, Life. What! Is she called Life that brought death into the world? But Adam perceived τον εσχατον Αδαμ, the last Adam exhibited to him in the promise, to be πνευμα ζωο, ποιουν, a quickening or life-giving spirit; and had brought in a better life of the soul; and should at last bring in a better life of the body. Hence is that saying, Joh 1:4 : Εν αυτῳ ζωη ην, In Him was Life." Some contend that the first Adam and the last Adam mean the same person in two different states: the first man with the body of his creation; the same person with the body of his resurrection. See on Co1 15:49 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
so--in accordance with the distinction just mentioned between the natural or animal-souled body and the spiritual body. it is written-- (Gen 2:7); "Man became (was made to become) a living soul," that is, endowed with an animal soul, the living principle of his body. the last Adam--the LAST Head of humanity, who is to be fully manifested in the last day, which is His day (Joh 6:39). He is so called in Job 19:25; see on Job 19:25 (compare Rom 5:14). In contrast to "the last," Paul calls "man" (Gen 2:7) "the FIRST Adam." quickening--not only living, but making alive (Joh 5:21; Joh 6:33, Joh 6:39-40, Joh 6:54, Joh 6:57, Joh 6:62-63; Rom 8:11). As the natural or animal-souled body (Co1 15:44) is the fruit of our union with the first Adam, an animal-souled man, so the spiritual body is the fruit of our union with the second Adam, who is the quickening Spirit (Co2 3:17). As He became representative of the whole of humanity in His union of the two natures, He exhausted in His own person the sentence of death passed on all men, and giveth spiritual and everlasting life to whom He will.
John Gill Bible Commentary
As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy,.... As was Adam's body, so are the bodies of those that descend from him; they are houses of clay, earthly houses of this tabernacle, which rise out of the earth, are maintained by the things of it, and return to it again: and as is the heavenly, such are, or will be they also that are heavenly; as is the glorious and spiritual body of Christ, the Lord from heaven, as that now is in heaven, and will be when he descends from thence; so will be the bodies of them that are heavenly, that are heaven born souls now, are partakers of the heavenly calling, and whose conversation is in heaven; and who, in the resurrection morn, will have heavenly, spiritual, and glorious bodies, like unto Christ's: so Philo (h) the Jew on those words, "and man became a living soul", has this note; "there are two kinds of men, for the one is "the heavenly man", and the other is "earthy"; the heavenly man is he, who is made after the image of God, incorruptible, and wholly devoid of earthy substance; the earthy is made of seminal matter, which is called the ground.'' (h) Leg. Allegor. l. 1. p. 46.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:45-49 Adam and Christ founded two distinct humanities: One is natural and earthly, enslaved to sin and death; the other is spiritual and heavenly, purified and destined for life. Adam represents the natural (physical) body and Christ the spiritual (resurrection) body. See also 15:21-22; Rom 5:12-21. 15:45-46 Just as Christ’s life-giving Spirit supersedes the natural life, the spiritual body will supersede the physical body.
1 Corinthians 15:45
The Resurrection Body
44It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. 45So it is written: “The first man Adam became a living being;” the last Adam a life-giving spirit.
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Hebrews 11 - Part 4
By Leonard Ravenhill5.5K47:38MAT 6:33ACT 17:281CO 15:452TH 1:1HEB 2:3HEB 12:2JUD 1:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need to prove the preaching of the word of God through action. He encourages believers to open the door and boldly proclaim the truth to a world that is scared and threatened. The preacher references the powerful impact of the Azusa Street revival, where people were convicted and filled with fear upon approaching the church. He also highlights the lack of God's presence in many churches today and calls for a return to a genuine manifestation of God's glory. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the greatness of salvation and the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ.
The New Creation - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks3.1K19:36New CreationGEN 1:3GEN 2:24ROM 5:121CO 15:221CO 15:452CO 4:6EPH 5:31In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who was captured by a Roman general. Initially, the man was rebellious, but as he observed the general's way of life, he began to admire him. Eventually, the general offered the man his freedom, but the man chose to stay with the general because he had come to realize that the general was more powerful and admirable than he had initially thought. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the concept of surrendering to Jesus Christ and how it leads to a joyful and fulfilling life. The sermon also references passages from the Bible, such as 2 Corinthians 4 and Romans 5, to support the idea of the old and new creations in Christ.
Christ in You
By Major Ian Thomas2.0K39:04Holy SpiritRUT 4:22MAT 6:33JHN 14:17ROM 7:41CO 15:45EPH 1:3EPH 5:25In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of man's relationship with God. He explains that man is only truly man when he has God in him, and losing God means losing everything. The preacher uses the story of Ruth from the Old Testament as a commentary on this principle. He highlights how believers in Christ have undergone a spiritual death through the crucifixion of Jesus, allowing them to belong to Him and bear fruit for God. The preacher also discusses how, by natural birth, humans are born with a fallen nature inherited from Adam, but through Christ's sacrifice, God has provided a way for believers to be freed from this sinful nature.
The Place and Meaning of Jesus Christ in Human History - Part 2
By T. Austin-Sparks1.8K47:26Human HistoryMAT 11:28ROM 8:381CO 15:451CO 15:472CO 5:21EPH 2:8HEB 4:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of Jesus Christ over evil forces and sin. He recounts the story of a man possessed by demons whom Jesus was able to free and restore to his right mind. The preacher highlights the distress and harassment caused by sin and evil habits, emphasizing the need for Jesus' intervention. He also discusses the greatness of Jesus as the last Adam, who came to overcome the consequences of the first Adam's disobedience and demonstrate his power over natural forces. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the immense background against which Jesus' greatness is revealed.
(Following the Footsteps of Christ) Bethlehem
By Willie Mullan1.7K1:06:42BethlehemISA 9:1ROM 8:2ROM 8:81CO 15:45HEB 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that as wandering and lost people, we need to be drawn by someone who is wonderful. He also highlights that we are like wilderness people who need direction from a counselor. Additionally, the speaker emphasizes that we are weak and in need of deliverance from someone who is mighty. The sermon also touches on the concept of salvation bringing glory to God and peace on earth, as well as the good will of God in sending Jesus. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about a doorbell ringing for an extended period of time and relates it to the glory of the Lord shining in the sky.
The Resurrection-01 Power of the Resurrection
By Stephen Olford1.7K32:43ROM 8:21CO 15:45PHP 3:102TI 4:8In this sermon, Reverend Stephen F. Oldford discusses the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that this power is not only centered in the risen Savior, but it is also communicated by the Holy Spirit. The sermon references 1 Corinthians 15 and Romans 8 to explain how the resurrection brings life and freedom from sin and death. Reverend Oldford encourages the listeners to have faith and be linked with the resurrected Christ, so that their lives may display the characteristics of a victorious and exalted Lord.
Communism - Anti-Christ
By Major Ian Thomas1.4K57:21Anti-ChristZEC 12:1MAT 16:24ROM 12:21CO 15:452CO 5:212TH 2:3REV 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit in order to truly impact the world. He argues that human accomplishments and promotions are insufficient and that the world is longing to see something that can only be explained by God's power. The preacher also highlights the importance of recognizing the foundational truth that all the events happening in the world are a result of the fall of Adam and the subsequent struggle between truth and lies. He warns against underestimating the appeal of ideologies like communism, as many people are convinced that man is solely responsible for his own destiny and that eliminating those deemed a threat to the race is morally justifiable.
Philippians
By Norman Grubb1.3K47:43PhilippiansROM 5:121CO 15:452CO 4:10PHP 1:21COL 1:271TH 4:161TI 2:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of intercession and the role it plays in the body of Christ. He emphasizes that intercession is not just a spiritual gift, but a responsibility for all believers. The speaker also highlights the concept of union life, which involves being united with Christ and operating on a higher level of faith. He references biblical figures like Paul, James, and John to illustrate the different levels of understanding and maturity in the Christian journey. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to embrace intercession and strive for a deeper union with Christ.
Freedom of Spirit - Part 6
By Norman Grubb77610:00JHN 14:6JHN 14:9ROM 6:6ROM 7:201CO 6:191CO 15:452CO 5:21EPH 2:31JN 4:4This sermon delves into the concept of self and Satan's influence, highlighting the internal struggle between our true identity in Christ and the deceptive nature of Satan. It emphasizes the need to recognize that our sinful desires and struggles do not define us, but rather stem from the influence of Satan misusing God's beautiful property within us. The sermon explores the transformation that occurs when we understand that Jesus Christ lives in us, replacing the self-seeking nature of Satan with the divine nature of Christ, leading to liberation and a new identity in Him.
Epistle 281
By George Fox1Unity in ChristTruth and RighteousnessNEH 9:20MAT 18:20MRK 9:501CO 9:181CO 15:45EPH 4:30PHP 3:141TH 5:19HEB 6:6HEB 12:14George Fox emphasizes the importance of remaining in the truth of God and not grieving the Holy Spirit. He warns against the dangers of abusing God's power and encourages believers to cherish the truth above all else, as it leads to eternal life. Fox calls for unity and peace among believers, urging them to keep their focus on Christ and to live righteously. He highlights the distinction between true worship and the false liberties of the flesh, reminding the congregation of their high calling in Christ. Ultimately, he encourages them to seek the divine life and power that comes from God, which is essential for their spiritual growth and fellowship.
How to Walk by the Spirit
By Watchman Nee1Spiritual WarfareWalking In The SpiritPRO 16:32ROM 6:6ROM 8:161CO 2:111CO 12:131CO 15:45GAL 5:16EPH 2:2PHP 1:271PE 1:13Watchman Nee emphasizes the necessity of understanding and walking by the Spirit to engage in spiritual warfare against the powers of darkness. He explains that the human spirit is the organ through which the Holy Spirit operates, and that many Christians fail to recognize the distinction between the spirit and the soul, leading to a soulish walk rather than a spiritual one. Nee urges believers to cultivate a strong spirit, which is essential for victory over sin and Satan, and to maintain a clear and unclouded spirit to discern God's will. He highlights the importance of ruling the spirit and being in constant cooperation with the Holy Spirit to experience true spiritual authority and power. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deeper understanding of the spirit life and the active choice to walk in the Spirit daily.
The Beginning of a New Humanity
By T. Austin-Sparks0New HumanitySpiritual TransformationJHN 3:3ROM 8:291CO 15:45GAL 6:15EPH 2:15EPH 4:13COL 3:102PE 3:72PE 3:10REV 21:1T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that the entrance of Jesus Christ into creation marks the beginning of a new humanity, where Christ serves as the Horizon of all things, both in the present and in the future. He discusses the significance of human history, the meaning of Christ and Christianity, the true Church of God, and the essence of spiritual experience, all centered around the person of Christ. Sparks highlights that humanity's misuse of free will has led to frustration and despair, yet through Christ, believers can experience peace, purpose, and hope. Ultimately, he asserts that God is actively forming a new humanity, characterized by spiritual transformation and dependence on Him.
The First Adam and Last Adam
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthRedemptionPSA 97:2JHN 3:6ROM 5:19ROM 12:21CO 1:301CO 2:141CO 15:452CO 5:17GAL 4:19PHP 2:13T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the contrast between the first Adam and the last Adam, Jesus Christ, in God's redemptive plan. He explains that while the first Adam became a living soul, the last Adam is a life-giving spirit, representing a new creation that begins in heaven. The sermon highlights that through Christ's obedience and perfection, believers are made complete in Him, and the Holy Spirit empowers them to live out this new life. Sparks stresses that spiritual growth involves learning to live in accordance with the Spirit, moving from the natural to the spiritual, and ultimately walking in obedience through the strength of Christ within us.
The Bringing in of a Man
By T. Austin-Sparks0PSA 8:6JHN 1:3ROM 8:191CO 15:45EPH 2:15PHP 2:13COL 1:16HEB 13:211JN 3:8REV 21:4REV 22:3T. Austin-Sparks preaches about the lost impact of Christ, the Gospel, and Christianity due to the influence of tradition, theology, and mystical cults. He emphasizes the need to rediscover the real meaning of Christ to experience a new impact personally and to impact the world. The sermon delves into the significance of Christ as the last Adam, a life-giving spirit, and His role in the Divine scheme of things as the answer to the universe, the terminal point between purpose and fulfillment, the climax of Divine energies, the instrument for answering the iniquity of the universe, the channel of life to a world race, and the spiritual head in terms of life through faith and righteousness.
Christ Crucified
By T. Austin-Sparks0The CrossNew CreationPSA 40:8MRK 15:34LUK 22:42JHN 12:24JHN 14:61CO 2:11CO 15:452CO 5:162CO 5:211PE 2:24T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of Christ's crucifixion as the pivotal moment that undercuts the false man, making way for the true man in accordance with God's design. He explains that knowing Christ goes beyond mere fleshly understanding, highlighting that the essence of Christ is found in His sacrifice on the Cross, which represents both the dismissal of the false humanity and the introduction of a new creation. Sparks elaborates on the necessity of the Cross in the believer's life, asserting that true reproduction of Christ within the Church can only occur through the continuous experience of death and resurrection. He calls for a recognition of the corporate nature of the Church, which is to be a living body that embodies Christ, rather than an organized institution. Ultimately, the sermon underscores the transformative power of the Cross in shaping believers into vessels of Christ's life and purpose.
The Incarnation and Life on Earth
By T. Austin-Sparks0Living by the SpiritThe Incarnation of ChristMAT 2:2MRK 1:24ACT 16:71CO 1:231CO 15:451CO 15:472CO 5:171JN 2:8T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of Christ's incarnation and earthly life as a representation of the new creation man, highlighting that His thirty-three years were essential to demonstrate how to live a life governed by the Holy Spirit. He challenges the audience to look beyond the superficial aspects of Christ's life and understand the spiritual value and impact of His presence, which stirred both people and spiritual forces. Sparks asserts that just as Christ was constituted by the Spirit for life and anointed for specific work, believers are also called to live on a higher level in their ordinary lives, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The sermon calls for a deeper appreciation of Christ's spiritual value and a commitment to live under the guidance of the Holy Spirit to make a meaningful impact in the world.
Genesis: The Beginning and End
By H.J. Vine0JHN 20:221CO 15:45COL 1:15REV 2:8REV 21:6H.J. Vine preaches about the parallel between the first man, Adam, and Joseph in the book of Genesis, both experiencing rejection, suffering, and ultimately rising to honor and exaltation. He draws a comparison to Christ as the true Joseph, rejected and crucified, but raised from the dead to become the Lord and Savior, settling His people in the true promised land. Christ is portrayed as the Alpha and Omega, the Beginning and the End, with pre-eminence in all things, offering life and power through the Holy Spirit.
The First Miracle in Cana
By C.I. Scofield0EXO 16:101KI 8:11MAT 15:21LUK 4:6JHN 2:11CO 15:45C.I. Scofield preaches on the significance of Jesus' presence at a wedding, emphasizing the importance of innocent social joy and the manifestation of His glory through miracles. He challenges the narrow-minded view of condemning social gatherings and highlights the new creation brought by Christ as the Author of new life. The lesson focuses on understanding the diverse meanings of 'glory' in Scripture and glorifying God by manifesting His excellences in our lives.
God’s Higher Order of Man (1 Corinthians 15:45-49)
By T. Austin-Sparks0New CreationTransformation1CO 15:45T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes that God's redemptive work through Jesus Christ is not merely to restore humanity to the state of Adam before the fall, but to elevate us to a higher order of being. He explains that while the first Adam was a living soul, the last Adam, Jesus, is a Life-giving spirit, representing a heavenly order that transcends the earthly. The goal of God's work is to conform us to the image of His Son, making Christ the focal point of His creation. Sparks encourages believers to embrace this new identity and purpose, recognizing that God is actively working to reproduce His Son in us. Ultimately, the sermon highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in achieving this divine objective.
His Uniqueness
By T. Austin-Sparks0Unity in ChristThe Uniqueness of Christ1CO 15:45T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the uniqueness of Christ as the last Adam, who embodies the fullness of heaven and meets the diverse needs of humanity. He explains that knowing Christ is not merely about understanding His earthly life but recognizing His spiritual significance and how He transforms us into a new creation. Sparks highlights that Christ is not confined to any one culture or temperament; rather, He is a universal figure who comprehensively addresses the needs of all people. The sermon calls for a deeper revelation of Christ through the Holy Spirit, which leads to true unity among believers as they are conformed to His image. Ultimately, Sparks encourages the congregation to see Christ as the answer to every human need and the one who restores unity in the new creation.
The Church - Transition From the Natural to the Spiritual
By T. Austin-Sparks0The ChurchSpiritual TransformationZEC 13:7MAT 26:31JHN 14:27JHN 20:22ACT 20:28ROM 15:331CO 15:45COL 1:20HEB 2:11HEB 13:20T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the transition of the Church from a natural to a spiritual entity, highlighting that true believers are those disillusioned with worldly hopes and ambitions, now gathered on a heavenly basis. He explains that the Church serves as a witness to the Resurrection of Christ, embodying a spiritual corporate body that thrives on the peace established by His blood. The Holy Spirit governs the Church, empowering it as a new creation, while faith is essential for true fellowship with the risen Lord. Ultimately, the Church is portrayed as a family, united under the Fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of believers, reflecting the divine nature of Christ.
The New Testament: The Great Transition
By T. Austin-Sparks0GEN 5:2JHN 4:21JHN 15:1ACT 1:81CO 15:451CO 15:50COL 3:9HEB 2:5HEB 8:5T. Austin-Sparks preaches about the transition from the old humanity to the new humanity in Christ, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive view of God's plan for humanity. He highlights the importance of recognizing the immense significance of Christ in God's universe and the necessity of a new captivation of Christ to experience true spiritual growth. The sermon delves into the concept of humanity as God's end, focusing on the transition from Adam to Christ, one nation to another, and one economy to another, as depicted in the Bible. T. Austin-Sparks urges listeners to embrace the full knowledge of Christ and allow Him to strip away earthly attachments to fill their lives with His presence.
The Last Adam
By John Follette0GEN 1:26ISA 55:11MAT 17:5JHN 17:41CO 15:45GAL 4:4PHP 2:6HEB 2:14John Follette preaches about the importance of man's power of choice in reflecting the likeness and image of God, emphasizing the process of testings and trials to develop Christian character. He discusses how the moral character of God is made manifest through the choices we make, leading to a growth into the likeness of God. Follette explores the failure of the first Adam and the redemption brought by the Last Adam, Jesus Christ, who perfectly displayed God's image and likeness through His obedience and sacrifice.
Epistle 254
By George Fox0ISA 9:7ROM 1:161CO 15:45EPH 5:27COL 3:2HEB 12:14HEB 13:171PE 2:9George Fox preaches about setting our affections on heavenly things to avoid bondage and evil influences, emphasizing the importance of true humility in Christ and keeping our focus on the immortal God. He urges believers to watch for their souls with an immortal eye, focusing on the immortal gospel and the sinless government of God. Fox highlights the establishment of the church in righteousness and truth, calling believers to holiness and purity to see God among them.
The Distinction Between the Spirit, the Soul, and the Body
By Watchman Nee0SoulBodySpiritGEN 2:7JHN 6:631CO 15:451TH 5:23HEB 4:12Watchman Nee explores the biblical distinction between the spirit, soul, and body, emphasizing that man is not merely a duality of soul and body but a trinity of spirit, soul, and body. He highlights 1 Thessalonians 5:23 to illustrate that the spirit and soul are separate entities, which is crucial for understanding spiritual life and growth. Nee argues that ignorance of this distinction hinders believers from fully experiencing their spiritual lives. He further explains that the soul is produced when the spirit animates the body, making it essential for life. Ultimately, he asserts that recognizing these three parts allows believers to live in accordance with the life-giving Spirit of Christ.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The first man Adam was made a living soul - These forms of expression are also common among the Jews: hence we find אדם הראשון Adam harishon, "Adam the first;" and אדם קדמאי Adam kadmai, " Adam the last." They assert that there are two Adams: 1. The mystical heavenly Adam; and 2. The mystical earthly Adam. See Sohar Exod., fol. 29; and the several examples in Schoettgen. The apostle says this is written: The first man Adam was made a living soul: this is found Gen 2:7, in the words נשמת חיים nishmath chaiyim, the breath of lives; which the apostle translates ψυχην ζωσαν, a living soul. The last Adam - a quickening spirit - This is also said to be written; but where, says Dr. Lightfoot, is this written in the whole sacred book? Schoettgen replies, In the very same verse, and in these words: ויהי האדם לנפש חיה vayehi ha - Adam lėnephesh chaiyah, and Adam became a living soul; which the apostle translates πνευμα ζωοποιουν, a quickening, or life-giving spirit. Among the cabalistic Jews נפש nephesh is considered as implying greater dignity than נשמה nishma. The former may be considered as pointing out the rational, the latter the sensitive soul. All these references to Jewish opinions and forms of speech the apostle uses to convince them that the thing was possible; and that the resurrection of the body was generally credited by all their wise and learned men. The Jews, as Dr. Lightfoot observes, speak frequently of the Spirit of the Messiah; and they allow that it was this Spirit that moved on the face of the waters, Gen 1:2. And they assert that the Messiah shall quicken those who dwell in the dust. "It ought not to be passed by," says the same author, "that Adam, receiving from God the promise of Christ - The seed of the woman shall bruise the head of the serpent, and believing it, named his wife חוה Chauvah, that is, life; so the Septuagint, και εκαλεσεν Αδαμ το ονονα της γυναικος αυτου Ζωη· And Adam called the name of his wife, Life. What! Is she called Life that brought death into the world? But Adam perceived τον εσχατον Αδαμ, the last Adam exhibited to him in the promise, to be πνευμα ζωο, ποιουν, a quickening or life-giving spirit; and had brought in a better life of the soul; and should at last bring in a better life of the body. Hence is that saying, Joh 1:4 : Εν αυτῳ ζωη ην, In Him was Life." Some contend that the first Adam and the last Adam mean the same person in two different states: the first man with the body of his creation; the same person with the body of his resurrection. See on Co1 15:49 (note).
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
so--in accordance with the distinction just mentioned between the natural or animal-souled body and the spiritual body. it is written-- (Gen 2:7); "Man became (was made to become) a living soul," that is, endowed with an animal soul, the living principle of his body. the last Adam--the LAST Head of humanity, who is to be fully manifested in the last day, which is His day (Joh 6:39). He is so called in Job 19:25; see on Job 19:25 (compare Rom 5:14). In contrast to "the last," Paul calls "man" (Gen 2:7) "the FIRST Adam." quickening--not only living, but making alive (Joh 5:21; Joh 6:33, Joh 6:39-40, Joh 6:54, Joh 6:57, Joh 6:62-63; Rom 8:11). As the natural or animal-souled body (Co1 15:44) is the fruit of our union with the first Adam, an animal-souled man, so the spiritual body is the fruit of our union with the second Adam, who is the quickening Spirit (Co2 3:17). As He became representative of the whole of humanity in His union of the two natures, He exhausted in His own person the sentence of death passed on all men, and giveth spiritual and everlasting life to whom He will.
John Gill Bible Commentary
As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy,.... As was Adam's body, so are the bodies of those that descend from him; they are houses of clay, earthly houses of this tabernacle, which rise out of the earth, are maintained by the things of it, and return to it again: and as is the heavenly, such are, or will be they also that are heavenly; as is the glorious and spiritual body of Christ, the Lord from heaven, as that now is in heaven, and will be when he descends from thence; so will be the bodies of them that are heavenly, that are heaven born souls now, are partakers of the heavenly calling, and whose conversation is in heaven; and who, in the resurrection morn, will have heavenly, spiritual, and glorious bodies, like unto Christ's: so Philo (h) the Jew on those words, "and man became a living soul", has this note; "there are two kinds of men, for the one is "the heavenly man", and the other is "earthy"; the heavenly man is he, who is made after the image of God, incorruptible, and wholly devoid of earthy substance; the earthy is made of seminal matter, which is called the ground.'' (h) Leg. Allegor. l. 1. p. 46.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:45-49 Adam and Christ founded two distinct humanities: One is natural and earthly, enslaved to sin and death; the other is spiritual and heavenly, purified and destined for life. Adam represents the natural (physical) body and Christ the spiritual (resurrection) body. See also 15:21-22; Rom 5:12-21. 15:45-46 Just as Christ’s life-giving Spirit supersedes the natural life, the spiritual body will supersede the physical body.