2 Timothy 1:10
Verse
Context
Faithfulness under Persecution
9He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began.10And now He has revealed this grace through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the gospel,11to which I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher.
Sermons
A.W. TozerA.W. Tozer
George FoxGeorge FoxGeorge Fox
David ServantSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But is now made manifest - This purpose of God to save the Gentiles as well as the Jews, and call them to the same state of salvation by Jesus Christ, was, previously to the manifestation of Christ, generally hidden; and what was revealed of it, was only through the means of types and ceremonies. Who hath abolished death - Καταργησαντος μεν τον θανατον. Who has counterworked death; operated against his operations, destroyed his batteries, undersunk and destroyed his mines, and rendered all his instruments and principles of attack useless. By death here, we are not to understand merely natural death, but that corruption and decomposition which take place in consequence of it; and which would be naturally endless, but for the work and energy of Christ. By him alone, comes the resurrection of the body; and through him eternal life and glory are given to the souls of believers. Brought life and immortality to light - The literal translation of the original is, He hath illustrated life and incorruption by the Gospel. Life eternal, or the doctrine of life eternal, even implying the resurrection of the body, was not unknown among the Jews. They expected this, for they found it in their prophets. It abounded among them long before the incarnation: and they certainly never borrowed any notion in it from the Christians; therefore the Gospel could not be stated as bringing to light what certainly was in the light before that time. But this doctrine was never illustrated and demonstrated before; it existed in promise, but had never been practically exhibited. Jesus Christ died, and lay under the empire of death; he arose again from the dead, and thus illustrated the doctrine of the resurrection: he took the same human body up into heaven, in the sight of his disciples; and ever appears in the presence of God for us; and thus, has illustrated the doctrine of incorruption. In his death, resurrection, and ascension, the doctrine of eternal life, and the resurrection of the human body, and its final incorruptibility, are fully illustrated by example, and established by fact.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But . . . now . . . manifest--in contrast to its concealment heretofore in the eternal purpose of God "before the world began" (Ti2 1:9; Col 1:16; Tit 1:2-3). appearing--the visible manifestation in the flesh. abolished death--Greek, "taken away the power from death" [TITTMANN]. The Greek article before "death" implies that Christ abolished death, not only in some particular instance, but in its very essence, being, and idea, as well as in all its aspects and consequences (Joh 11:26; Rom 8:2, Rom 8:38; Co1 15:26, Co1 15:55; Heb 2:14). The carrying out of the abolition of death into full effect is to be at the resurrection (Rev 20:14). The death of the body meanwhile is but temporary, and is made no account of by Christ and the apostles. brought . . . to light--making visible by the Gospel what was before hidden in God's purpose. life--of the Spirit, acting first on the soul here, about to act on the body also at the resurrection. immortality--Greek, "incorruptibility" of the new life, not merely of the risen body [ALFORD], (Rom 8:11). through--by means of the Gospel, which brings to light the life and immortality purposed by God from eternity, but manifested now first to man by Christ, who in His own resurrection has given the pledge of His people's final triumph over death through Him. Before the Gospel revelation from God, man, by the light of nature, under the most favorable circumstances, had but a glimmering idea of the possibility of a future being of the soul, but not the faintest idea of the resurrection of the body (Act 17:18, Act 17:32). If Christ were not "the life," the dead could never live; if He were not the resurrection, they could never rise; had He not the keys of hell and death (Rev 1:18), we could never break through the bars of death or gates of hell [BISHOP PEARSON].
John Gill Bible Commentary
But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ,.... The grace according to which the elect of God are saved and called; though it was given to them in Christ, before the world was, yet lay hid in the heart of God; in his thoughts, council and covenant; and in Jesus Christ; and in the types, shadows, sacrifices, prophecies, and promises of the Old Testament; but is now made manifest in the clearness, freeness, and abundance of it by the appearance of Christ, as a Saviour in human nature; who is come full of grace and truth, and through whom there is a plentiful exhibition of it to the sons of men: who hath abolished death; the law of sin and death, which is the cause of death; and has destroyed him which has the power of it, the devil; he has abolished corporeal death with regard to his people, as a penal evil, he has took away its sting, and removed its curse, and made it a blessing to them; and he has utterly, with respect to them, abolished the second death, so as that it shall have no power over them, or they ever be hurt by it; all which he did by dying, and rising again: for though he died, yet he continued not under the power of death; but rose again and triumphed over it, as having got the victory of it; and the keys of it are in his hand: and hath brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Christ was the first that rose again from the dead to an immortal life; the path of life was first shown to him, and brought to light by him; and though the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead was known by the Old Testament saints, yet not so clearly as it is now revealed in the Gospel; and in which is so fully attested the resurrection of Christ, and of many of the saints with him, as well as the general resurrection at the last day: and besides, eternal life, which is the free gift of God, lay hid in his purpose, promise, and covenant, and in his Son Jesus Christ, into whose hands it was put; and which he has brought to light in a more clear manner than ever it was before; by his appearance in human nature, by his personal ministry, by his death and resurrection from the dead, and through the Gospel, as preached by his ministers; which gives an account of the nature of it, shows the way unto it, and points out and describes the persons that shall enjoy it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:10 God’s gift of grace has been made . . . plain in history by Christ Jesus (see Rom 16:26; 1 Pet 1:20). • by the appearing: See study note on 1 Tim 6:14. • broke the power of death: See 1 Cor 15:26; 2 Thes 2:8; Heb 2:14. • the way to life: See 2 Tim 1:1; 1 Cor 15:53-54; Titus 1:2. • through the Good News: Salvation is provided by Christ, but its effects are mediated through proclamation of the Good News (see Titus 1:2-3; Rom 1:16-17; 10:14-15).
2 Timothy 1:10
Faithfulness under Persecution
9He has saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works, but by His own purpose and by the grace He granted us in Christ Jesus before time began.10And now He has revealed this grace through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has abolished death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the gospel,11to which I was appointed as a preacher, an apostle, and a teacher.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
God's Peculiar People
By A.W. Tozer3.1K24:20Peculiar People1TI 6:141TI 6:162TI 1:102TI 2:132TI 4:1TIT 2:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being zealous for good works as children of God. He highlights that God does not approve of armchair Christianity or ivory tower Christianity, where believers simply have theoretical knowledge but lack action. The preacher encourages everyone, even those who may not be theologians, to actively engage in understanding and applying the teachings of the Bible. He also mentions the blessed hope of the appearing of Jesus Christ and the role of grace in teaching believers to be zealous for good works. The sermon references various Bible verses, including Titus 2:14 and 2 Timothy 1:10.
Gods Peculiar People
By A.W. Tozer8928:55Value of RedemptionAnticipation of Christ's ReturnHolinessJHN 3:16ROM 12:1EPH 1:7PHP 3:201TH 4:162TI 1:10TIT 2:14HEB 9:281PE 2:9REV 22:12A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of being God's peculiar people, highlighting that our value is determined by the price Christ paid for us—His own life. He explains that true Christianity holds validity in the face of death, and that believers are called to live with zeal for good works while eagerly anticipating Christ's return. Tozer clarifies that being a 'peculiar people' means being a treasured possession of God, set apart for His purposes, and encourages Christians to focus on living righteously rather than getting caught up in theological disputes. He reassures that those who die in Christ will not miss the glory of His return, as they will be raised first. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a life of active faith, remembering Christ's sacrifice while looking forward to His second coming.
Epistle 308
By George Fox02TI 1:10George Fox preaches about the importance of maintaining the gospel order and fellowship of Christ, emphasizing the need to keep away from false orders and fellowships that lead to apostasy. He urges believers to walk in peace, love, and in the worship of Christ in spirit and truth, staying away from the spirit of Cain, Cora, and Balaam that oppose the power of Christ. Fox encourages ministers to be humble examples and not lords over God's inheritance, highlighting the significance of following Christ's government and gospel order to avoid deception and maintain unity in the spirit.
Epistle 344
By George Fox0PSA 46:4ISA 48:18AMO 5:24MAT 18:20LUK 10:6ACT 4:12EPH 4:1PHP 2:91TH 4:72TI 1:10George Fox preaches about the importance of walking in the light, life, and power of God, emphasizing the need for believers to stand up for God's glory, truth, purity, virtue, and holiness. He encourages men and women to labor in the gospel of peace, serving the Lord joyfully and without strife, allowing love to edify and unite the body of Christ. Fox also addresses the reproach on women and men, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise through Christ Jesus, who renews believers into the image of God and grants them power to act from Him as their head.
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.
Epistle 297
By George Fox0SalvationPower Of GodGEN 3:15ISA 26:1JHN 3:2ROM 14:17ROM 16:11CO 4:202TI 1:10TIT 2:11JAS 2:5George Fox emphasizes the necessity of remaining in the power of the Lord, as losing this power equates to losing the kingdom characterized by peace, righteousness, and joy. He encourages believers to maintain their connection to the grace of God, which is essential for salvation and comfort. Fox highlights that Christ is the foundation of their gatherings, who overcomes falsehood and brings forth the true gospel, empowering both men and women to fulfill their duties in faith. He reassures that through Christ, believers have dominion and stability, urging them to encourage one another in their spiritual journey.
Day 194, 2 Timothy 1
By David Servant0PRO 17:17MAT 13:21PHP 4:132TI 1:62TI 1:102TI 1:142TI 4:6David Servant preaches on Paul's final letter to Timothy, written during Paul's last days before his martyrdom. Despite facing severe persecution and abandonment, Paul encourages Timothy to remain bold in the face of adversity, reminding him of the power, love, and discipline given by God. Paul emphasizes the importance of standing firm in the faith, guarding the treasure of eternal life through the Holy Spirit, and not being ashamed of suffering for the gospel, as he himself endured without shame, knowing his reward awaited in eternity.
God the Son: His Resurrection and Ascension
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0DAN 12:2JHN 5:25ACT 24:151CO 15:22PHP 3:111TH 4:161TI 6:162TI 1:10REV 20:4REV 20:11Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the profound topic of resurrection, emphasizing the unique nature of Christ's resurrection as the 'firstfruits' and the order of procession in the resurrection of believers. He highlights the eternal significance of the resurrection, refuting the notion of a 'general resurrection' and explaining the pivotal role of Christ's resurrection in the divine plan. Chafer explores the relationship between Christ's resurrection and His death, the New Creation, and the observance of the first day of the week as a commemoration of the New Creation. He also outlines the seven reasons given in Scripture for Christ's resurrection and the two ascensions of Christ into Heaven, detailing the purposes and ministries associated with each ascension.
Epistle 301
By George Fox0ISA 9:6JHN 15:5ROM 1:162CO 5:17EPH 3:17EPH 4:3EPH 6:152TI 1:101PE 1:23George Fox preaches about the importance of possessing the gospel of peace, which brings life and immortality to light, and the need for believers to be heirs and possessors of Christ's heavenly government. He emphasizes the personal experience of having Christ ruling in one's heart by faith and the transformation that occurs when Christ is found within. Fox encourages believers to have the word of God near in their hearts and mouths, obeying and doing it, being born again of the immortal seed and freely sharing spiritual nourishment with others.
Epistle 213
By George Fox0Identity in ChristPower Of GodGEN 3:15JOB 37:11PSA 82:6ISA 28:16ISA 61:3MAT 16:18JHN 8:36ROM 8:34ROM 14:171CO 1:241CO 3:111CO 4:8EPH 6:162TI 1:10JAS 2:5George Fox emphasizes the importance of dwelling in the life and power of God, which serves as a firm foundation for believers. He encourages the faithful to recognize Christ as their salvation and wisdom, assuring them that they are preserved in sincerity and integrity through God's power. Fox highlights that true freedom is found in Christ, who has triumphed over darkness and offers life and immortality to His followers. He reassures believers of their identity as children of God and heirs to His everlasting kingdom, filled with joy and peace. Ultimately, he calls for a life of praise and glory to God, who is eternal.
Resurrection Power
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual PowerResurrectionMAT 28:18JHN 11:25ACT 1:8ROM 6:41CO 15:55EPH 1:19PHP 3:10COL 2:122TI 1:10REV 1:18A.W. Tozer emphasizes that true spiritual power for Christians is found not in the birth of Christ or the relics of the Cross, but in the resurrection of Jesus, who declared, 'All power is given me in heaven and in earth.' The resurrection transformed the believers' direction from mourning and fear towards hope and victory, as they proclaimed, 'He is risen, indeed!' Tozer asserts that the significance of Easter extends beyond a single day, marking the beginning of an ongoing outreach of Christ's power that will continue until His return.
Epistle 333
By George Fox0FaithfulnessUnity in ChristJOB 42:12PSA 118:22JER 9:3ACT 4:12ROM 8:381CO 3:7EPH 6:11COL 2:62TI 1:101JN 1:1George Fox addresses the children of Zion, emphasizing their election in Christ, the cornerstone of God's building. He encourages them to remain steadfast in faith, even amidst trials and persecution, reminding them that their salvation is found only in Jesus. Fox urges the community to maintain peace, love, and unity, equipping themselves with the armor of God to stand firm against adversities. He highlights the importance of spiritual sacrifices and the role of both men and women in the gospel, calling for a commitment to faithfulness and mutual support. Ultimately, he encourages them to live in the light of the gospel, fostering a spirit of love and service among one another.
Epistle 343
By George Fox0GEN 3:1ROM 1:161CO 3:41CO 15:47EPH 4:24COL 3:102TI 1:10HEB 11:10HEB 12:21PE 1:5REV 20:10George Fox preaches about the importance of staying true to the teachings of Christ and not getting caught up in divisions among believers, emphasizing the need to focus on the power of God's gospel for salvation and to keep faith in Christ alone. He warns against the deceptive spirit that led Adam and Eve astray, causing them to fall from God's grace, and highlights the ongoing spiritual battle to keep believers from falling into the same traps of disobedience and rebellion. Fox urges listeners to follow Christ's teachings, resist the adversary's attempts to lead them astray, and stay united in the spirit of Christ's peace, striving to be renewed into the image of God that man was created in before the fall.
The King of Terrors.
By F.B. Meyer0Hope in ChristVictory over DeathJOB 18:14JHN 14:2ROM 8:381CO 15:55PHP 3:201TH 4:162TI 1:10HEB 2:141JN 5:11REV 1:18F.B. Meyer addresses the fear of death, historically referred to as the 'King of Terrors,' emphasizing how ancient cultures were haunted by the unknown associated with death and the grave. He contrasts this dread with the hope brought by Jesus, who has conquered death and revealed eternal life, assuring believers that death is merely a passage to their heavenly home. Meyer highlights that Jesus holds the keys to death and Hades, providing comfort to those facing mortality. He also reassures that many will be alive at Christ's return, escaping death altogether, and celebrates the victory over death through Jesus Christ.
Epistle 216
By George Fox0Faithfulness in TrialsPower Of GodPSA 121:5JHN 1:12JHN 15:1ROM 1:161CO 2:5EPH 2:16PHP 1:5COL 1:202TI 1:10HEB 7:27George Fox emphasizes the power of God and the importance of standing firm in faith amidst persecution and trials. He encourages believers to remain united in the gospel, which brings life and immortality to light, and to spread the truth of Christ to those lost in darkness. Fox highlights the necessity of living in the power of God, which enables believers to overcome sin and maintain fellowship with one another. He calls for a commitment to the cross of Christ, urging the faithful to be valiant in their witness and to cultivate a pure conscience. Ultimately, he reassures that despite earthly oppression, believers possess the eternal power of God, which secures their inheritance in Christ.
Epistle 204
By George Fox0Fellowship With GodDivine PowerGEN 3:15PSA 31:5EZK 34:14ROM 1:16EPH 3:92TI 1:10HEB 12:143JN 1:3George Fox emphasizes the importance of recognizing the seed of God within ourselves, which grants us access to His power, promises, and the gospel. He encourages believers to walk in truth, righteousness, and holiness, as these paths lead to a deeper fellowship with God and the revelation of His presence. Fox highlights that this divine power transcends darkness and is essential for understanding the mystery of fellowship with God. He reminds us that the seed of God is the ultimate authority that overcomes evil and fulfills the prophecies of old, guiding us to the life-giving pastures of God's presence.
Epistle 189
By George Fox0FaithfulnessUnity in ChristDEU 2:25JER 9:3ROM 1:16ROM 2:14ROM 14:132TI 1:10JAS 5:71JN 5:19REV 14:6REV 21:2George Fox encourages his friends in New England and Virginia to remain steadfast in the truth and power of God, urging them to spread the gospel and confound deceit. He emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and patience, reminding them to avoid judging one another and to dwell in God's power to overcome worldly adversities. Fox highlights the necessity of preaching the everlasting gospel to all nations, assuring them that through patience and perseverance, they will witness the triumph of truth over falsehood. He calls for a commitment to the seed of God, which will sustain them against the trials of life and the challenges posed by spiritual deception.
Be Filled and Be Filled Now!
By Roy Hession0ROM 3:31CO 2:61CO 6:131CO 13:82CO 3:7GAL 3:17GAL 5:4EPH 2:152TH 2:82TI 1:10HEB 2:14The preacher delves into the concept of 'katargeo,' which means to render something powerless or ineffective. This term is often used in the New Testament to describe the nullification or abolition of various things, such as the Law, sin, and death, through the work of Christ. The perfect tense of 'katargeo' signifies a permanent effect, emphasizing the lasting impact of Christ's work. By exploring the multiple instances of 'katargeo' in the Bible, believers can grasp the profound truths associated with the work of Christ and the freedom it brings.
He Saw No Corruption"
By H.J. Vine0ACT 2:31ACT 13:36ROM 2:71CO 9:251CO 15:171CO 15:532TI 1:101PE 1:41PE 1:23H.J. Vine preaches on the theme of incorruptibility, emphasizing the significance of Christ's resurrection as proof of His eternal incorruptibility, contrasting it with the pervasive corruption in the world due to sin. He highlights the importance of seeking incorruptibility in various aspects of life - personally, mentally, materially, morally, doctrinally, spiritually, commercially, and socially. The sermon delves into the forms of corruption and the glorious promise of believers receiving incorruptible bodies and an eternal inheritance reserved in heaven.
Epistle 222
By George Fox0MIC 4:4MAT 18:20ACT 4:12ROM 1:161CO 1:18EPH 3:9EPH 4:18PHP 1:5PHP 2:92TI 1:10HEB 13:4George Fox preaches about the importance of dwelling in Christ, the top-stone over all, to experience eternal life and bear fruit to God. He emphasizes the significance of walking in the name of the Lord for safety and blessings. Fox urges believers to bow at the cross of Christ, the power of God, to overcome earthly temptations and live in the fellowship of the gospel. He highlights the necessity of worshiping God in spirit and truth, praying in the spirit, and singing in the spirit for public worship. Fox also critiques false teachings on perfection and encourages believers to grow in the word of God for everlasting life and holiness.
The True and the False
By Selwyn Hughes0JHN 20:1ROM 6:91CO 15:20COL 1:182TI 1:10Selwyn Hughes emphasizes the significance of Christ's resurrection, debunking misconceptions such as reincarnation or living on in memories. He clarifies that Christ's resurrection was a miraculous event where His body was infused with life, bringing 'life and immortality to light' through the gospel. Hughes highlights the literal and factual nature of Christ's resurrection, emphasizing that it signifies victory over death and the assurance of eternal life through Him.
Rev. 20:14. Death and the Grave
By Horatius Bonar0Hope of ResurrectionVictory over DeathPSA 6:5SNG 8:6ISA 38:18HOS 13:14JHN 11:25ROM 5:121CO 15:551TH 4:142TI 1:10REV 20:14Horatius Bonar preaches on Revelation 20:14, emphasizing God's ultimate victory over death and the grave, which are personified as twin enemies of humanity. He explains that death and the grave, having caused immense suffering and sorrow, will be cast into the lake of fire, symbolizing God's abhorrence of these forces and His determination to abolish them forever. Bonar highlights that God shares our disdain for death, viewing it as a criminal that disrupts His creation and inflicts pain upon His people. The sermon reassures believers of the hope of resurrection and eternal life, affirming that through Christ's victory, death will be rendered powerless. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a celebration of life and the promise of resurrection, as God will redeem His people from the clutches of death.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But is now made manifest - This purpose of God to save the Gentiles as well as the Jews, and call them to the same state of salvation by Jesus Christ, was, previously to the manifestation of Christ, generally hidden; and what was revealed of it, was only through the means of types and ceremonies. Who hath abolished death - Καταργησαντος μεν τον θανατον. Who has counterworked death; operated against his operations, destroyed his batteries, undersunk and destroyed his mines, and rendered all his instruments and principles of attack useless. By death here, we are not to understand merely natural death, but that corruption and decomposition which take place in consequence of it; and which would be naturally endless, but for the work and energy of Christ. By him alone, comes the resurrection of the body; and through him eternal life and glory are given to the souls of believers. Brought life and immortality to light - The literal translation of the original is, He hath illustrated life and incorruption by the Gospel. Life eternal, or the doctrine of life eternal, even implying the resurrection of the body, was not unknown among the Jews. They expected this, for they found it in their prophets. It abounded among them long before the incarnation: and they certainly never borrowed any notion in it from the Christians; therefore the Gospel could not be stated as bringing to light what certainly was in the light before that time. But this doctrine was never illustrated and demonstrated before; it existed in promise, but had never been practically exhibited. Jesus Christ died, and lay under the empire of death; he arose again from the dead, and thus illustrated the doctrine of the resurrection: he took the same human body up into heaven, in the sight of his disciples; and ever appears in the presence of God for us; and thus, has illustrated the doctrine of incorruption. In his death, resurrection, and ascension, the doctrine of eternal life, and the resurrection of the human body, and its final incorruptibility, are fully illustrated by example, and established by fact.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But . . . now . . . manifest--in contrast to its concealment heretofore in the eternal purpose of God "before the world began" (Ti2 1:9; Col 1:16; Tit 1:2-3). appearing--the visible manifestation in the flesh. abolished death--Greek, "taken away the power from death" [TITTMANN]. The Greek article before "death" implies that Christ abolished death, not only in some particular instance, but in its very essence, being, and idea, as well as in all its aspects and consequences (Joh 11:26; Rom 8:2, Rom 8:38; Co1 15:26, Co1 15:55; Heb 2:14). The carrying out of the abolition of death into full effect is to be at the resurrection (Rev 20:14). The death of the body meanwhile is but temporary, and is made no account of by Christ and the apostles. brought . . . to light--making visible by the Gospel what was before hidden in God's purpose. life--of the Spirit, acting first on the soul here, about to act on the body also at the resurrection. immortality--Greek, "incorruptibility" of the new life, not merely of the risen body [ALFORD], (Rom 8:11). through--by means of the Gospel, which brings to light the life and immortality purposed by God from eternity, but manifested now first to man by Christ, who in His own resurrection has given the pledge of His people's final triumph over death through Him. Before the Gospel revelation from God, man, by the light of nature, under the most favorable circumstances, had but a glimmering idea of the possibility of a future being of the soul, but not the faintest idea of the resurrection of the body (Act 17:18, Act 17:32). If Christ were not "the life," the dead could never live; if He were not the resurrection, they could never rise; had He not the keys of hell and death (Rev 1:18), we could never break through the bars of death or gates of hell [BISHOP PEARSON].
John Gill Bible Commentary
But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ,.... The grace according to which the elect of God are saved and called; though it was given to them in Christ, before the world was, yet lay hid in the heart of God; in his thoughts, council and covenant; and in Jesus Christ; and in the types, shadows, sacrifices, prophecies, and promises of the Old Testament; but is now made manifest in the clearness, freeness, and abundance of it by the appearance of Christ, as a Saviour in human nature; who is come full of grace and truth, and through whom there is a plentiful exhibition of it to the sons of men: who hath abolished death; the law of sin and death, which is the cause of death; and has destroyed him which has the power of it, the devil; he has abolished corporeal death with regard to his people, as a penal evil, he has took away its sting, and removed its curse, and made it a blessing to them; and he has utterly, with respect to them, abolished the second death, so as that it shall have no power over them, or they ever be hurt by it; all which he did by dying, and rising again: for though he died, yet he continued not under the power of death; but rose again and triumphed over it, as having got the victory of it; and the keys of it are in his hand: and hath brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Christ was the first that rose again from the dead to an immortal life; the path of life was first shown to him, and brought to light by him; and though the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead was known by the Old Testament saints, yet not so clearly as it is now revealed in the Gospel; and in which is so fully attested the resurrection of Christ, and of many of the saints with him, as well as the general resurrection at the last day: and besides, eternal life, which is the free gift of God, lay hid in his purpose, promise, and covenant, and in his Son Jesus Christ, into whose hands it was put; and which he has brought to light in a more clear manner than ever it was before; by his appearance in human nature, by his personal ministry, by his death and resurrection from the dead, and through the Gospel, as preached by his ministers; which gives an account of the nature of it, shows the way unto it, and points out and describes the persons that shall enjoy it.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:10 God’s gift of grace has been made . . . plain in history by Christ Jesus (see Rom 16:26; 1 Pet 1:20). • by the appearing: See study note on 1 Tim 6:14. • broke the power of death: See 1 Cor 15:26; 2 Thes 2:8; Heb 2:14. • the way to life: See 2 Tim 1:1; 1 Cor 15:53-54; Titus 1:2. • through the Good News: Salvation is provided by Christ, but its effects are mediated through proclamation of the Good News (see Titus 1:2-3; Rom 1:16-17; 10:14-15).