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1 Corinthians 15:51
Verse
Context
Where, O Death, Is Your Victory?
50Now I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.51Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—52in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I show you a mystery - That is, a thing which you have never known before. But what is this mystery? Why, that we shall not all sleep; we shall not all die; but we shall all be changed: of this the Jews had not distinct notions. For, as flesh and blood cannot inherit glory, and all shall not be found dead at the day of judgment, then all must be changed - undergo such a change that their bodies may become spiritual, like the bodies of those who shall be raised from the dead.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Behold--Calling attention to the "mystery" heretofore hidden in God's purposes, but now revealed. you--emphatical in the Greek; I show (Greek, "tell," namely, by the word of the Lord, Th1 4:15) YOU, who think you have so much knowledge, "a mystery" (compare Rom 11:25) which your reason could never have discovered. Many of the old manuscripts and Fathers read, "We shall all sleep, but we shall not all be changed"; but this is plainly a corrupt reading, inconsistent with Th1 4:15, Th1 4:17, and with the apostle's argument here, which is that a change is necessary (Co1 15:53). English Version is supported by some of the oldest manuscripts and Fathers. The Greek is literally "We all shall not sleep, but," &c. The putting off of the corruptible body for an incorruptible by an instantaneous change will, in the case of "the quick," stand as equivalent to death, appointed to all men (Heb 9:27); of this Enoch and Elijah are types and forerunners. The "we" implies that Christians in that age and every successive age since and hereafter were designed to stand waiting, as if Christ might come again in their time, and as if they might be found among "the quick."
John Gill Bible Commentary
So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption,.... As at the coming of Christ, both the bodies of living saints, and of dead ones being raised, will: and this mortal shall have put on immortality; which will be the case, in the resurrection morn: then shall be brought to pass that saying that is written; then that passage will have its full accomplishment, which stands in Isa 25:8 where it is read, he will swallow up death in victory, or "for ever". That is, the Messiah shall by his death, and resurrection from the dead, obtain such an entire victory over death, not only for himself, but for all his people, that in the resurrection morn, when they will be all raised from the dead, death will be so swallowed up, that it will be no more: the Jews acknowledge that this prophecy belongs to the times of the Messiah; so they say (p), that "the Messiah shall descend from Pharez, and in his day the holy blessed God will cause death to be swallowed up, as it is said, Isa 25:8 "he shall swallow up death in victory":'' and again (q), "when the King Messiah comes, the holy blessed God will raise up those that sleep in the dust, as it is written, he shall swallow up death in victory:'' they also say (r), that this passage refers to future time, and to the world to come. The prophet expresses it actively, it being a prediction of what was to be done by the Messiah; the apostle cites it passively, as being accomplished by him after the resurrection, and considered as a part of the song sung by the risen saints; to which is added, (p) Shemot Rabba, sect. 20. fol. 131. 4. (q) Zohar in Gen. fol. 73. 1. (r) Zohar in, Exod. fol. 108. 1, 2, 4. Misn. Moed Katon. c. 3. sect. 9. Zohar iu Lev. fol. 46. 3. Yade Mose in Shirhashirim Rabba, fol. 20. 1. Echa Rabbati, fol. 48. 2.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
To confirm what he had said of this change, I. He here tells them what had been concealed from or unknown to them till then - that all the saints would not die, but all would be changed. Those that are alive at our Lord's coming will be caught up into the clouds, without dying, Th1 4:11. But it is plain from this passage that it will not be without changing from corruption to incorruption. The frame of their living bodies shall be thus altered, as well as those that are dead; and this in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, Co1 15:52. What cannot almighty power effect? That power that calls the dead into life can surely thus soon and suddenly change the living; for changed they must be as well as the dead, because flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. This is the mystery which the apostle shows the Corinthians: Behold, I show you a mystery; or bring into open light a truth dark and unknown before. Note, There are many mysteries shown to us in the gospel; many truths that before were utterly unknown are there made known; many truths that were but dark and obscure before are there brought into open day, and plainly revealed; and many things are in part revealed that will never be fully known, nor perhaps clearly understood. The apostle here makes known a truth unknown before, which is that the saints living at our Lord's second coming will not die, but be changed, that this change will be made in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and at the sound of the last trump; for, as he tells us elsewhere, the Lord himself shall descend with a shout, with a voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God (Th1 4:16), so here, the trumpet must sound. It is the loud summons of all the living and all the dead, to come and appear at the tribunal of Christ. At this summons the graves shall open, the dead saints shall rise incorruptible, and the living saints be changed to the same incorruptible state, Co1 15:52. II. He assigns the reason of this change (Co1 15:53): For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. How otherwise could the man be a fit inhabitant of the incorruptible regions, or be fitted to possess the eternal inheritance? How can that which is corruptible and mortal enjoy what is incorruptible, permanent, and immortal? This corruptible body must be made incorruptible, this mortal body must be changed into immortal, that the man may be capable of enjoying the happiness designed for him. Note, It is this corruptible that must put on incorruption; the demolished fabric that must be reared again. What is sown must be quickened. Saints will come in their own bodies (Co1 15:38), not in other bodies. III. He lets us know what will follow upon this change of the living and dead in Christ: Then shall be brought to pass that saying, Death is swallowed up in victory; or, He will swallow up death in victory. Isa 25:8. For mortality shall be then swallowed up of life (Co2 5:4), and death perfectly subdued and conquered, and saints for ever delivered from its power. Such a conquest shall be obtained over it that it shall for ever disappear in those regions to which our Lord will bear his risen saints. And therefore will the saints hereupon sing their epinikion, their song of triumph. Then, when this mortal shall have put on immortality, will death be swallowed up, for ever swallowed up, eis nikos. Christ hinders it from swallowing his saints when they die; but, when they rise again, death shall, as to them, be swallowed for ever. And upon this destruction of death will they break out into a song of triumph. 1. They will glory over death as a vanquished enemy, and insult this great and terrible destroyer: "O death! where is thy sting? Where is now thy sting, thy power to hurt? What mischief hast thou done us? We are dead; but behold we live again, and shall die no more. Thou art vanquished and disarmed, and we are out of the reach of thy deadly dart. Where now is thy fatal artillery? Where are thy stores of death? We fear no further mischiefs from thee, nor heed thy weapons, but defy thy power, and despise thy wrath. And, O grave! where is thy victory? Where now is thy victory? What has become of it? Where are the spoils and trophies of it? Once we were thy prisoners, but the prison-doors are burst open, the locks and bolts have been forced to give way, our shackles are knocked off, and we are for ever released. Captivity is taken captive. The imaginary victor is conquered, and forced to resign his conquest and release his captives. Thy triumphs, grave, are at an end. The bonds of death are loosed, and we are at liberty, and are never more to be hurt by death, nor imprisoned in the grave." In a moment, the power of death, and the conquests and spoils of the grave, are gone; and, as to the saints, the very signs of them will not remain. Where are they? Thus will they raise themselves, when they become immortal, to the honour of their Saviour and the praise of divine grace: they shall glory over vanquished death. 2. The foundation for this triumph is here intimated, (1.) In the account given whence death had its power to hurt: The sting of death is sin. This gives venom to his dart: this alone puts it into the power of death to hurt and kill. Sin unpardoned, and nothing else, can keep any under his power. And the strength of sin is the law; it is the divine threatening against the transgressors of the law, the curse there denounced, that gives power to sin. Note, Sin is the parent of death, and gives it all its hurtful power. By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, Rom 5:12. It is its cursed progeny and offspring. (2.) In the account given of the victory saints obtain over it through Jesus Christ, Co1 15:56. The sting of death is sin; but Christ, by dying, has taken out this sting. He has made atonement for sin; he has obtained remission of it. It may hiss therefore, but it cannot hurt. The strength of sin is the law; but the curse of the law is removed by our Redeemer's becoming a curse for us. So that sin is deprived of its strength and sting, through Christ, that is, by his incarnation, suffering, and death. Death may seize a believer, but cannot sting him, cannot hold him in his power. There is a day coming when the grave shall open, the bands of death be loosed, the dead saints revive, and become incorruptible and immortal, and put out of the reach of death for ever. And then will it plainly appear that, as to them, death will have lost its strength and sting; and all by the mediation of Christ, by his dying in their room. By dying, he conquered death, and spoiled the grave; and, through faith in him, believers become sharers in his conquests. They often rejoice beforehand, in the hope of this victory; and, when they arise glorious from the grave, they will boldly triumph over death. Note, It is altogether owing to the grace of God in Christ that sin is pardoned and death disarmed. The law puts arms into the hand of death, to destroy the sinner; but pardon of sin takes away this power from the law, and deprives death of its strength and sting. It is by the grace of God, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, that we are freely justified, Rom 3:24. It is no wonder, therefore, (3.) If this triumph of the saints over death should issue in thanksgiving to God: Thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through Christ Jesus, our Lord, Co1 15:57. The way to sanctify all our joy is to make it tributary to the praise of God. Then only do we enjoy our blessings and honours in a holy manner when God has his revenue of glory out of it, and we are free to pay it to him. And this really improves and exalts our satisfaction. We are conscious at once of having done our duty and enjoyed our pleasure. And what can be more joyous in itself than the saints' triumph over death, when they shall rise again? And shall they not then rejoice in the Lord, and be glad in the God of their salvation? Shall not their souls magnify the Lord? When he shows such wonders to the dead, shall they not arise and praise him? Psa 88:10. Those who remain under the power of death can have no heart to praise; but such conquests and triumphs will certainly tune the tongues of the saints to thankfulness and praise - praise for the victory (it is great and glorious in itself), and for the means whereby it is obtained (it is given of God through Christ Jesus), a victory obtained not by our power, but the power of God; not given because we are worthy, but because Christ is so, and has by dying obtained this conquest for us. Must not this circumstance endear the victory to us, and heighten our praise to God? Note, How many springs of joy to the saints and thanksgiving to God are opened by the death and resurrection, the sufferings and conquests, of our Redeemer! With what acclamations will saints rising from the dead applaud him! How will the heaven of heavens resound his praises for ever! Thanks be to God will be the burden of their song; and angels will join the chorus, and declare their consent with a loud Amen, Hallelujah.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:51 The Good News reveals the previously unknown secret of resurrection. • We will not all die: Paul might have expected the future resurrection in his own lifetime (cp. 15:52; 1 Thes 4:15, 17).
1 Corinthians 15:51
Where, O Death, Is Your Victory?
50Now I declare to you, brothers, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.51Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—52in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Signs of the Times Matt 24:3-21
By William MacDonald1.6K34:33Signs Of The Times1CO 15:51In this sermon on Matthew 24, the disciples approach Jesus privately and ask about the signs of his coming and the end of the age. Jesus warns them to be cautious and not be deceived by false messiahs who will come in his name. He also mentions that there will be wars, famines, pestilences, and earthquakes before the end comes. The speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the details of the rapture, as described in the epistles, and warns that those who have heard the gospel but are left behind will not have a second chance for salvation.
Godsword Season Episode 65
By Ken Graves1.4K28:401CO 15:51This sermon emphasizes the concept of change and transformation, focusing on the contrast between the first man, Adam, and Jesus Christ as the second man who brings life and immortality. It delves into the necessity of the change from corruptible to incorruptible, mortal to immortal, highlighting the ultimate victory over death through Jesus Christ's sacrifice and resurrection.
The Hour of Trial
By Brian Brodersen1.4K37:101CO 15:51This sermon delves into the topic of the rapture, focusing on the belief that believers will be taken to heaven before the great tribulation. It emphasizes the comfort, incentive for holiness, and urgency that understanding the doctrine of the rapture brings. The sermon highlights the practical implications of being prepared for Christ's imminent return and living a life dedicated to God.
The Return of Christ
By Charles E. Fuller1.4K51:21Second Coming Of ChristMAT 24:37MAT 27:51LUK 16:191CO 15:141CO 15:511TH 1:1The video is a broadcast of the Gospel with Dr. Charles E. Ford, presented by Christian Heritage Ministry and Cooperation with Four Seminary. The sermon emphasizes the importance of worshiping and adoring God, and the need to pray with all our power while preaching the word. The speaker also mentions the concept of going home to the land, where there is safety and where the soil hides the road. The sermon touches on the idea of following the steps of Jesus and the belief that this world is not our home, but rather our treasures are laid out beyond the blue. The speaker also addresses the question of whether the soul sleeps between death and resurrection, and invites listeners to tune in for future sermons on this topic.
How God's Word Produces Our Work
By John Piper1.3K47:461CO 15:51This sermon emphasizes the importance of falling in love with the Word of God and the glorious realities it presents, ultimately leading to falling in love with God Himself. The speaker shares personal reflections on facing prostate cancer, highlighting the dangers of melodrama, forgetting one's own pain-free experiences, and indulging in self-pity. The sermon delves into the biblical text of 1 Corinthians 15:51-58, discussing the victory over death through Jesus Christ and the practical implications for steadfastness, immovability, and abounding in the work of the Lord. The speaker encourages the congregation to read and memorize Scripture for strength and peace in challenging times.
We Shall Not All Sleep
By J. Frank Norris70126:00ResurrectionISA 40:6JHN 1:111CO 15:511PE 1:211PE 3:211JN 3:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of change and when it will take place. He refers to the last trumpet, which signifies the end of the present age and the gathering of God's elect. The preacher emphasizes the joy and rejoicing that will come with this change, particularly in the context of being reunited with loved ones in the resurrection. He encourages the congregation to have hope and trust in God, knowing that when Christ appears, they will be transformed to be like Him. The sermon concludes with an invitation for people to confess Christ and obey Him.
Death
By Rolfe Barnard48953:45DeathPSA 119:11MAT 25:30JHN 8:241CO 15:511TH 4:13REV 20:14REV 21:4In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing his desire to rejoice with the congregation and offer them challenges, rebukes, or encouragement as needed. He then focuses on the concept of death and contrasts the fate of unbelievers with that of believers. He emphasizes that for unbelievers, death leads to eternal torment, while for believers, it is like sleep, a restful state before awakening to see the face of God. The preacher shares a personal experience of singing at his father's funeral and expresses the joy he felt in preaching and singing during that service.
Christ's Transfiguration. (Luke 9:28-36)
By George Whitefield0MAT 17:3LUK 9:28JHN 5:39JHN 10:271CO 2:91CO 15:511TH 4:16REV 21:4George Whitefield preaches on the powerful account of Jesus' Transfiguration, emphasizing the significance of prayer, spiritual transformation, and heavenly glory. He encourages believers to seek moments of divine encounter through prayer, reflecting on the promise of a glorious resurrection and the eternal joy of being with the Lord. Whitefield also warns against the dangers of pride, selfishness, and the consequences of living without Christ. He highlights the importance of heeding God's voice, accepting Jesus as the beloved Savior, and obeying His teachings to secure eternal salvation.
The Comforting Hope of 1 Thessalonians 4
By John F. Walvoord0DAN 12:2ZEC 13:8MAT 27:52JHN 14:11CO 15:511TH 4:132TH 2:1REV 20:4REV 20:12John F. Walvoord delves into the detailed revelation of the rapture in 1 Thessalonians 4, emphasizing the importance of understanding the sequence of events leading up to Christ's second coming. The passage addresses the Thessalonians' concerns about death in relation to the rapture, clarifying that both the living and the dead in Christ will be united at the same time. Posttribulationists face challenges in explaining the delay in the resurrection of the dead, the nature of the revelation received, and the lack of warning about the great tribulation in this passage.
Sonidos Extranos Del Campamento Pretribulacional
By Eli Brayley0MAT 24:291CO 14:81CO 15:511TH 4:162TI 2:15HEB 9:282PE 3:10REV 1:7REV 20:4Eli Brayley preaches about the discrepancies and errors of the pretribulational doctrine, highlighting the misinterpretations of key biblical passages and the inconsistency with the teachings of the New Testament. He addresses the concept of a 'Second Coming before the Second Coming,' emphasizing the unison among the apostles regarding Christ's return and refuting the need for multiple comings of Jesus. Additionally, he discusses the fallacy of a 'First Resurrection before the First Resurrection,' pointing out the scriptural evidence that supports a single resurrection event for all believers. Brayley challenges the audience to discern between truth and conjecture, urging them to align their beliefs with the unadulterated Word of God.
The Changes of the Unchanging and Unchangeable God
By Ian Paisley01CO 15:51Ian Paisley preaches about the unchanging God who orchestrates significant changes in His creation and creatures, drawing parallels between Job's cry in the Old Testament and the promise of transformation in the New Testament. He emphasizes how God's eternal purpose and will involve transforming all things, including the earth and individuals, according to His divine plan. Paisley highlights the inevitability of changes in seasons, stages of life, and societal realms, all decreed by the unchanging God, leading to the ultimate change of eternal life or death. He encourages believers to anticipate the unchangeable change promised by God, echoing the hope of resurrection and transformation found in Job, Paul, and David's writings.
Jesus Foretells His Death, Resurrection and Glorification Matthew 16:21-17:9
By David Servant0MAT 16:141CO 15:512PE 1:16David Servant preaches about Peter's initial misunderstanding of Jesus' purpose to die for our sins, emphasizing the importance of dying to selfish desires and living for Jesus. Jesus expects His followers to give up their selfish ambitions and fully commit to Him, promising true life in return. The transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain reveals the reality of life after death, with Moses and Elijah appearing and conversing with Jesus, indicating that spirits live on after physical death.
First Epistle to the Corinthians - Introduction
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ACT 18:11CO 1:181CO 6:91CO 11:231CO 12:41CO 15:511CO 16:13Arno Clemens Gaebelein delves into the Epistles addressed to the Corinthians, emphasizing the practical character of these letters in dealing with serious conditions that arose in the church at Corinth. He explores the historical and cultural background of Corinth, a city known for its wealth, commerce, and moral corruption, providing context for understanding the challenges faced by the early church. Gaebelein highlights the Apostle Paul's ministry in Corinth, where he preached the simple yet powerful message of Jesus Christ crucified amidst a city steeped in immorality and idolatry. The sermon focuses on the importance of the church's testimony in the world, the significance of spiritual gifts and church order, and the hope of the resurrection for believers.
A Precious Reality
By Bishop W. F. Mallalieu0PSA 8:3JHN 10:10JHN 11:25JHN 17:3ROM 15:291CO 15:511JN 3:21JN 5:13Bishop W. F. Mallalieu preaches about the Triune God's loving work to supply the world's needs, the wonder of God's creation, and the infinite grace and mercy of the Creator in the work of redemption. Through the plan of redemption, believers can experience a renewal in the image of God, be delivered from sin's power, and be adopted into the heavenly family for an eternity of blessedness. This eternal life, starting in this world and continuing in the world to come, offers abundant life and the promise of victory over death through Jesus Christ.
Exposition on Psalm 127
By St. Augustine0PSA 126:1PSA 126:3PRO 8:3JHN 10:91CO 15:51EPH 2:14St. Augustine preaches on the significance of the Psalms, particularly Psalm 126, highlighting the allegorical interpretation of Solomon as a representation of Christ, the True Peacemaker. He emphasizes the importance of God's role in building His house and the Church, underscoring the need for humility and reliance on God's guidance. St. Augustine delves into the concept of rising before dawn symbolizing arrogance and the necessity of waiting for Christ's light. He also discusses the resurrection of the dead and the Church as the mother of believers, emphasizing the spiritual birth and growth of God's people.
A Review
By James Smith0PSA 51:5ROM 8:181CO 15:51EPH 2:81JN 3:2James Smith preaches on reflecting on our past, present, and future states: acknowledging our sinful nature, experiencing God's transforming grace, and anticipating our glorious future in Heaven. He emphasizes the depravity of our hearts and the amazing grace of God that saves and transforms us into new creatures in Christ. Smith highlights the contrast between our former rebellious selves and our current redeemed state, attributing all goodness in us to God's grace. He concludes with the hope of our future glory in Heaven, free from sin, pain, and sorrow, where we will be with Christ and glorify God forever.
Paul's Prophetic View of the Second Advent of Christ.
By Thomas Reade0MAT 24:371CO 15:51PHP 3:201TH 4:161TH 5:22TI 1:10HEB 10:312PE 3:10REV 21:1Thomas Reade preaches about Paul's prophetic view of the second advent of Christ, cautioning against unbelief and spiritual pride. He highlights the sufferings of early Christians and the glorious hope of immortality that sustained them. Reade emphasizes the importance of valuing the Gospel above earthly treasures, the certainty of Christ's return, and the need for personal holiness in light of the impending judgment. He urges believers to persevere in faith, guard against spiritual pride, and continue in the truth of the Gospel to receive the promised eternal glory.
Part 26: Partial Rapture Theory
By John F. Walvoord0JHN 14:31CO 15:51EPH 4:301TH 1:91TH 2:191TH 4:141TH 4:161TH 5:4REV 22:12John F. Walvoord discusses the theory of partial rapture, where a small group of pretribulationists believe only faithful church members will be raptured before or during the tribulation, based on works rather than grace. The historical background of this theory is traced back to Robert Govett in the 19th century. Walvoord presents general reasons for rejecting partial rapture, emphasizing salvation by grace, unity of the body of Christ, and the clear teaching in Scripture that all true believers will be translated at the appointed time.
God the Son: His Coming for His Saints
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0ISA 46:10JHN 14:31CO 15:511TH 4:161TH 4:18Lewis Sperry Chafer preaches on the importance of understanding unfulfilled prophecy in the Bible, emphasizing that prophecy is God's pre-written history and has been fulfilled in the most literal ways, such as the birth and death of Christ. He distinguishes between the events of Christ coming for His saints and His return to earth with His saints, highlighting the need for careful consideration of each. The doctrine of Christ's return is a major theme in the Bible, with the next event to be fulfilled being Christ coming for His saints, a mystery revealed in the New Testament.
Ready to Move
By Charles E. Cowman0PSA 31:15JHN 14:21CO 15:512CO 5:1PHP 3:20Charles E. Cowman preaches about the transient nature of our earthly lives compared to the eternal home God has prepared for us in heaven. Using the analogy of preparing to move from a decaying house to a beautiful new country, he emphasizes the anticipation and joy believers should have in looking forward to their heavenly home. Just as Jesus spoke of 'going to the Father,' Christians are reminded that they are journeying towards the fulfillment and expansion of life in the Father's House, where His nearer presence awaits. The sermon encourages believers to trust in God like the little birds that sing joyfully as they journey to their summer-lands, reminding us that our times are in His hands and death is merely a transition to a better place.
Super-Aboundings of Grace Over the Aboundings of Sin
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 103:2ISA 26:13ISA 32:1ROM 3:26ROM 5:20ROM 6:141CO 15:51PHP 1:111TH 4:14J.C. Philpot preaches about the triumph of grace over sin, highlighting how grace super-abounds over the flood of sin, reigns as a benevolent sovereign, and dispenses eternal life through righteousness by Jesus Christ our Lord. He emphasizes the need for grace to subdue sin, reign in the heart, and lead to eternal life, abolishing temporal, spiritual, and eternal death. Philpot underscores the harmony of grace with God's righteousness, its administration by Christ, and its fruitfulness in producing righteousness for the glory of God.
A Curious Meditation
By James Smith0MIC 6:8JHN 8:32ROM 8:11CO 10:131CO 15:511CO 15:57EPH 2:8PHP 3:101TH 5:231JN 2:6REV 21:4James Smith reflects on the various aspects of his Christian journey, expressing desires for more communion with God, likeness to Jesus, and usefulness to the Church. He acknowledges his struggles, fears, burdens, and joys, while emphasizing the importance of faith, hope, and charity in his life. Smith recognizes the threefold sanctification he has received and the threefold freedom granted to him through Christ. He concludes with exhortations for both sincere Christians and unconverted sinners to seek God diligently and repent of their sins.
The First Resurrection and the Judgment Seat of Christ
By Zac Poonen0MAT 19:301CO 3:111CO 15:512CO 5:10PHP 3:201TH 4:132TI 4:81PE 5:4REV 19:8Zac Poonen preaches about the transformation that will occur when Christ comes again, where believers will receive new bodies that are immortal and similar to Jesus' resurrected body. Those who died in Christ will rise from their graves to meet the Lord along with living disciples. A judgment seat will be set up for individual assessment and rewards based on faithfulness in earthly lives, with crowns awarded to the faithful. The sermon emphasizes that earthly values like money and fame hold no weight before God, while virtues like purity, humility, and mercy are highly valued.
The Christian Hope and the Sure Word of Prophecy.
By William Kelly0MAT 24:441CO 15:511TH 4:172PE 3:91JN 3:3William Kelly preaches about the importance of distinguishing between the Christian hope and prophecy, emphasizing that while prophecy is good and to be heeded, the Christian hope is a superior, heavenly revelation that brightens as the believer's foundation deepens in Christ. He highlights the significance of the Christian hope in the lives of believers, urging them to eagerly await the return of the Lord Jesus Christ, which should purify their hearts and lead them to live in holiness and readiness for His coming. Kelly refutes the misconception that the apostle Paul and early Christians were mistaken in expecting Christ's imminent return, asserting that the hope of Christ's coming is a vital, purifying truth that should influence every aspect of a believer's life.
The Tree of Faith
By Jane Lead0ROM 6:41CO 15:421CO 15:512CO 5:17GAL 3:22EPH 4:22PHP 3:20COL 3:11JN 3:2REV 21:1Jane Lead preaches about the deep mysteries of faith, emphasizing the need for a spiritual transformation and the importance of dying to the earthly self to rise in a new life of divine essence. She highlights the process of passing through various baptisms symbolized by pools of conviction, repentance, renovation, dedication, blood, oil, and fire, leading to the attainment of a deified body capable of living in the celestial realm. Jane Lead envisions a future age where faith will transfigure mortal bodies into immortal ones, bringing about a radical transformation and the manifestation of the glorified presence of Christ and the saints.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I show you a mystery - That is, a thing which you have never known before. But what is this mystery? Why, that we shall not all sleep; we shall not all die; but we shall all be changed: of this the Jews had not distinct notions. For, as flesh and blood cannot inherit glory, and all shall not be found dead at the day of judgment, then all must be changed - undergo such a change that their bodies may become spiritual, like the bodies of those who shall be raised from the dead.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Behold--Calling attention to the "mystery" heretofore hidden in God's purposes, but now revealed. you--emphatical in the Greek; I show (Greek, "tell," namely, by the word of the Lord, Th1 4:15) YOU, who think you have so much knowledge, "a mystery" (compare Rom 11:25) which your reason could never have discovered. Many of the old manuscripts and Fathers read, "We shall all sleep, but we shall not all be changed"; but this is plainly a corrupt reading, inconsistent with Th1 4:15, Th1 4:17, and with the apostle's argument here, which is that a change is necessary (Co1 15:53). English Version is supported by some of the oldest manuscripts and Fathers. The Greek is literally "We all shall not sleep, but," &c. The putting off of the corruptible body for an incorruptible by an instantaneous change will, in the case of "the quick," stand as equivalent to death, appointed to all men (Heb 9:27); of this Enoch and Elijah are types and forerunners. The "we" implies that Christians in that age and every successive age since and hereafter were designed to stand waiting, as if Christ might come again in their time, and as if they might be found among "the quick."
John Gill Bible Commentary
So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption,.... As at the coming of Christ, both the bodies of living saints, and of dead ones being raised, will: and this mortal shall have put on immortality; which will be the case, in the resurrection morn: then shall be brought to pass that saying that is written; then that passage will have its full accomplishment, which stands in Isa 25:8 where it is read, he will swallow up death in victory, or "for ever". That is, the Messiah shall by his death, and resurrection from the dead, obtain such an entire victory over death, not only for himself, but for all his people, that in the resurrection morn, when they will be all raised from the dead, death will be so swallowed up, that it will be no more: the Jews acknowledge that this prophecy belongs to the times of the Messiah; so they say (p), that "the Messiah shall descend from Pharez, and in his day the holy blessed God will cause death to be swallowed up, as it is said, Isa 25:8 "he shall swallow up death in victory":'' and again (q), "when the King Messiah comes, the holy blessed God will raise up those that sleep in the dust, as it is written, he shall swallow up death in victory:'' they also say (r), that this passage refers to future time, and to the world to come. The prophet expresses it actively, it being a prediction of what was to be done by the Messiah; the apostle cites it passively, as being accomplished by him after the resurrection, and considered as a part of the song sung by the risen saints; to which is added, (p) Shemot Rabba, sect. 20. fol. 131. 4. (q) Zohar in Gen. fol. 73. 1. (r) Zohar in, Exod. fol. 108. 1, 2, 4. Misn. Moed Katon. c. 3. sect. 9. Zohar iu Lev. fol. 46. 3. Yade Mose in Shirhashirim Rabba, fol. 20. 1. Echa Rabbati, fol. 48. 2.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
To confirm what he had said of this change, I. He here tells them what had been concealed from or unknown to them till then - that all the saints would not die, but all would be changed. Those that are alive at our Lord's coming will be caught up into the clouds, without dying, Th1 4:11. But it is plain from this passage that it will not be without changing from corruption to incorruption. The frame of their living bodies shall be thus altered, as well as those that are dead; and this in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, Co1 15:52. What cannot almighty power effect? That power that calls the dead into life can surely thus soon and suddenly change the living; for changed they must be as well as the dead, because flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God. This is the mystery which the apostle shows the Corinthians: Behold, I show you a mystery; or bring into open light a truth dark and unknown before. Note, There are many mysteries shown to us in the gospel; many truths that before were utterly unknown are there made known; many truths that were but dark and obscure before are there brought into open day, and plainly revealed; and many things are in part revealed that will never be fully known, nor perhaps clearly understood. The apostle here makes known a truth unknown before, which is that the saints living at our Lord's second coming will not die, but be changed, that this change will be made in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, and at the sound of the last trump; for, as he tells us elsewhere, the Lord himself shall descend with a shout, with a voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God (Th1 4:16), so here, the trumpet must sound. It is the loud summons of all the living and all the dead, to come and appear at the tribunal of Christ. At this summons the graves shall open, the dead saints shall rise incorruptible, and the living saints be changed to the same incorruptible state, Co1 15:52. II. He assigns the reason of this change (Co1 15:53): For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. How otherwise could the man be a fit inhabitant of the incorruptible regions, or be fitted to possess the eternal inheritance? How can that which is corruptible and mortal enjoy what is incorruptible, permanent, and immortal? This corruptible body must be made incorruptible, this mortal body must be changed into immortal, that the man may be capable of enjoying the happiness designed for him. Note, It is this corruptible that must put on incorruption; the demolished fabric that must be reared again. What is sown must be quickened. Saints will come in their own bodies (Co1 15:38), not in other bodies. III. He lets us know what will follow upon this change of the living and dead in Christ: Then shall be brought to pass that saying, Death is swallowed up in victory; or, He will swallow up death in victory. Isa 25:8. For mortality shall be then swallowed up of life (Co2 5:4), and death perfectly subdued and conquered, and saints for ever delivered from its power. Such a conquest shall be obtained over it that it shall for ever disappear in those regions to which our Lord will bear his risen saints. And therefore will the saints hereupon sing their epinikion, their song of triumph. Then, when this mortal shall have put on immortality, will death be swallowed up, for ever swallowed up, eis nikos. Christ hinders it from swallowing his saints when they die; but, when they rise again, death shall, as to them, be swallowed for ever. And upon this destruction of death will they break out into a song of triumph. 1. They will glory over death as a vanquished enemy, and insult this great and terrible destroyer: "O death! where is thy sting? Where is now thy sting, thy power to hurt? What mischief hast thou done us? We are dead; but behold we live again, and shall die no more. Thou art vanquished and disarmed, and we are out of the reach of thy deadly dart. Where now is thy fatal artillery? Where are thy stores of death? We fear no further mischiefs from thee, nor heed thy weapons, but defy thy power, and despise thy wrath. And, O grave! where is thy victory? Where now is thy victory? What has become of it? Where are the spoils and trophies of it? Once we were thy prisoners, but the prison-doors are burst open, the locks and bolts have been forced to give way, our shackles are knocked off, and we are for ever released. Captivity is taken captive. The imaginary victor is conquered, and forced to resign his conquest and release his captives. Thy triumphs, grave, are at an end. The bonds of death are loosed, and we are at liberty, and are never more to be hurt by death, nor imprisoned in the grave." In a moment, the power of death, and the conquests and spoils of the grave, are gone; and, as to the saints, the very signs of them will not remain. Where are they? Thus will they raise themselves, when they become immortal, to the honour of their Saviour and the praise of divine grace: they shall glory over vanquished death. 2. The foundation for this triumph is here intimated, (1.) In the account given whence death had its power to hurt: The sting of death is sin. This gives venom to his dart: this alone puts it into the power of death to hurt and kill. Sin unpardoned, and nothing else, can keep any under his power. And the strength of sin is the law; it is the divine threatening against the transgressors of the law, the curse there denounced, that gives power to sin. Note, Sin is the parent of death, and gives it all its hurtful power. By one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin, Rom 5:12. It is its cursed progeny and offspring. (2.) In the account given of the victory saints obtain over it through Jesus Christ, Co1 15:56. The sting of death is sin; but Christ, by dying, has taken out this sting. He has made atonement for sin; he has obtained remission of it. It may hiss therefore, but it cannot hurt. The strength of sin is the law; but the curse of the law is removed by our Redeemer's becoming a curse for us. So that sin is deprived of its strength and sting, through Christ, that is, by his incarnation, suffering, and death. Death may seize a believer, but cannot sting him, cannot hold him in his power. There is a day coming when the grave shall open, the bands of death be loosed, the dead saints revive, and become incorruptible and immortal, and put out of the reach of death for ever. And then will it plainly appear that, as to them, death will have lost its strength and sting; and all by the mediation of Christ, by his dying in their room. By dying, he conquered death, and spoiled the grave; and, through faith in him, believers become sharers in his conquests. They often rejoice beforehand, in the hope of this victory; and, when they arise glorious from the grave, they will boldly triumph over death. Note, It is altogether owing to the grace of God in Christ that sin is pardoned and death disarmed. The law puts arms into the hand of death, to destroy the sinner; but pardon of sin takes away this power from the law, and deprives death of its strength and sting. It is by the grace of God, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, that we are freely justified, Rom 3:24. It is no wonder, therefore, (3.) If this triumph of the saints over death should issue in thanksgiving to God: Thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through Christ Jesus, our Lord, Co1 15:57. The way to sanctify all our joy is to make it tributary to the praise of God. Then only do we enjoy our blessings and honours in a holy manner when God has his revenue of glory out of it, and we are free to pay it to him. And this really improves and exalts our satisfaction. We are conscious at once of having done our duty and enjoyed our pleasure. And what can be more joyous in itself than the saints' triumph over death, when they shall rise again? And shall they not then rejoice in the Lord, and be glad in the God of their salvation? Shall not their souls magnify the Lord? When he shows such wonders to the dead, shall they not arise and praise him? Psa 88:10. Those who remain under the power of death can have no heart to praise; but such conquests and triumphs will certainly tune the tongues of the saints to thankfulness and praise - praise for the victory (it is great and glorious in itself), and for the means whereby it is obtained (it is given of God through Christ Jesus), a victory obtained not by our power, but the power of God; not given because we are worthy, but because Christ is so, and has by dying obtained this conquest for us. Must not this circumstance endear the victory to us, and heighten our praise to God? Note, How many springs of joy to the saints and thanksgiving to God are opened by the death and resurrection, the sufferings and conquests, of our Redeemer! With what acclamations will saints rising from the dead applaud him! How will the heaven of heavens resound his praises for ever! Thanks be to God will be the burden of their song; and angels will join the chorus, and declare their consent with a loud Amen, Hallelujah.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
15:51 The Good News reveals the previously unknown secret of resurrection. • We will not all die: Paul might have expected the future resurrection in his own lifetime (cp. 15:52; 1 Thes 4:15, 17).