| Scripture |
Expanded Comments |
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| 1 Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; |
Brethren – This chapter is an inspired treatise on the topic of the resurrection. In it the Apostle sets forth practically every phase and point relating to this momentous subject. Q819:4[Q819:4]; HG137:1[HG137:2]
He was writing to those who believed in the resurrection of Jesus, but who disbelieved in the necessity for their own resurrection. R4175:4[R4175]
He was not addressing the world, but the "sanctified in Christ Jesus." (1 Cor. 1:2) R3174:6[R3174]; F694[F694]
The clearest and most explicit account of the resurrection to be found anywhere in the Scriptures. Paul commences with Jesus and his resurrection and shows that we have many and reliable witnesses. R95:1[R95]
He outlines the great plan of God showing the importance of the resurrection, not only for Jesus but also for all who ever shall be blessed through him. R3564:1[R3564]; HG227:5[HG227]
Evidently assaults had been made upon the faith of the Church at Corinth respecting the resurrection of the dead. F456[F456]
It is because he recognized so clearly the matter of the resurrection of the soul, and not the body, that Paul stated himself so positively in this chapter. R2794:6[2794]
Gospel – Good tidings. R4994:6[R4994], 1204:1[R1204]
Paul declares the resurrection to be the very essence of the Gospel. R1204:1[R1204]
That God, in his own due time, had provided a Redeemer, who died and had risen, that he might, as Messiah, confer upon the human race the blessed opportunity of restitution to all that was lost in Adam. R4994:6[R4994]
Ye have received – In advance of its general revealing to every creature during the Millennial age. R3282:4[R3282]
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| 2 By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. |
Ye are saved – By which they might reckon themselves saved. R429:1[R429]
Faith is important to present salvation. He who cannot believe cannot be saved. Whoever has not heard the Gospel, as in the case of the heathen, is not saved. R4187:2[R4187]
Jesus' death is made the power or source of godliness to them that believe. R1350:2[R1350]
Keep in memory – Whoever has heard the Gospel and does not keep it in memory and thus loses its power will miss the present salvation. R4187:2[R4187]
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| 3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; |
For – In the two preceding verses Paul tells us that this was the Gospel. R429:1[R429]
Delivered unto you – Had it not been for the redemption through the blood, the forgiveness of sins, nothing else could ever be glad tidings. R652:2[R652], 538:1[538]
First of all – As of primary importance. R4187:3[R4187]
As the foundation of the Gospel. R925:5[R925]
I also received – First of all. C368[C368]; R2166:3[R2166], 3564:2[3564], 1794:5[1794], 1572:2[1572], 925:5[925], 652:5[652], 538:1[538], 482:5*[482*], 429:1[429]
As a foundation truth or doctrine, upon and in harmony with which all other doctrines must be built. R1572:2[R1572], 538:1[R538]
How that – Through Verse 4 is a synopsis of the Gospel in a few brief words. Q820:T[Q819:4]
That Christ died – This much of knowledge is necessary to anyone who would be properly termed a believer, a Christian. R4187:3[R4187], 5207:2[R5207], 2789:4[2789], 1577:5, 1572:2[R1572], 538:1[R538]
The entire plan of salvation is pivoted upon the great transaction of our Lord's sacrifice, which, beginning with his consecration at Jordan, was finished with his expiring breath at Calvary. R2789:2[R2789]
Suffering alone would not pay the wages of sin for us. E127[E126]
He died in order that by paying our penalty of death, God might be just and yet the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus, and release him from the death sentence. [R3372], [R1591]
It is expedient that he who shall judge the world shall have full ability to sympathize with the world; one able and willing to succor those beset by sin and weakness, and to have compassion on them. R3372:4[R3372]
But not on account of any sins which he committed. R648:3[R648], 641:3; NS346:6[NS346]
The Lord's death was the first one in which the victim was entirely innocent, entirely unworthy of the death sentence; the matter of dying was wholly voluntary. R3369:3[R3369]
He died of a broken heart. R3563:4[R3562]
Not suffered eternal torment. E441[E441]; R2601:1[R2600], 1086:2[1086]; SM73:2[]; NS551:4[NS551]; [NS793]
For our sins – As a means to our recovery from. R2789:5[]
His death was a free-will sacrifice as our redemption price. R463:6[], 5854:6[]; NS52:2[NS52]
He is a propitiation for our sins, "the just for the unjust," to bring us to God. (1 Pet. 3:18) R3806:6[], 3560:6[], 3066:2[], 538:1[]; E446, E443[]; HG654:6[]
He thus redeemed, ransomed, bought us with his own precious blood. R708:3[]
He legally set us free and made provision for our recovery out of death in due time, by the process of resurrection. R1443:2[]
"And not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." (1 John 2:2) R2601:1[]; E442[]; HG654:6[]
To remove the Adamic curse. R216:1[], 1878:3[]
Original sin is not forgivable, but God in his mercy provided a Redeemer. R3806:6[]
He could have sustained life as a perfect and sinless man forever, but he "gave his life a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45) R463:6[]
He could not effect our justification until he had risen and presented his merit on behalf of the Church. R5854:6[]
God did not pardon, remit the penalty. R1058:2[], 324:1[]
"Jehovah hath laid upon him the iniquity of us all." (Isa. 53:6) R1058:2[], 648:3[], 324:1[]
On this truth hangs the argument respecting our justification from original sin, through faith in his blood, through faith that he really died, that he really gave his life as our redemption price. NS175:4[]
The very foundation of Christian faith and hope. R708:3[], 1591:2[], 1025:4*[], 393:4[]; OV197:5[]
Ultimately this doctrine will be seen to be the touchstone which will clearly show who are the Lord's and who are not. R3561:1[]
Even a hazy ignorance of the philosophy of the ransom does not hinder from mentally grasping and appropriating the great general fact that "Christ died for our sins," and we have "redemption through his blood." (Eph. 1:7) R4578:1[], 4187:5[], 2789:4[]
The sin of the world is denied when it is claimed that man is by an evolutionary process rising from the monkey condition. If there is no sin of the world to atone, the record of Jesus' atonement is in error. R3561:1[]; HG411:4[]
According to the Scriptures – Typified in the sacrifices of the Law and the divinely arranged plan. R5034:3[]
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| 4 And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: |
He was buried – He was dead during the interim. R3902:3
He rose again – "For our justification." (Rom. 4:25); NS5:1, 544:1; R925:5
Raised from the dead by the Father, who thus gave assurance to all that Christ's sin-offering on our behalf was complete and fully satisfied. R1576:5
Evincing the satisfying of divine justice, and that the Redeemer lives to carry out the glorious features of our salvation. R4187:5
His perfection, his keeping of the divine law, his acceptance with the Father, were fully demonstrated and assured to us. R3710:3
It was Christ's soul that died--his very existence had ceased in death; not merely his body, but himself was absolutely dead three days. R2794:6
Not that he came again from "Paradise." F670; R3902:3
The masses of Christendom think of Jesus as being alive during the three days; that it was his fleshly body that was inanimate in the tomb, and that the resurrection was merely the reanimation of his dead body. R3374:2; NS175:3
The third day – After his death. R95:1, 3574:5*
At the appointed time. B25
This Scripture concerning the firstfruits is the only one which we recall as in any way pointing out the time of our Lord's resurrection. (Lev. 23:6,7,11; 1 Cor. 15:20) R5191:6, 1289:6, 2271:3
The waving of the barley sheaf of first-fruits on the 16th of Nisan typified the resurrection of Christ. (Lev. 23:11) This is the strongest pos the tomb. R5191:5
A purely idiomatic phrase, implying that he would be in the heart of the earth "till the third day." R3574:5*
We recognize the custom of the time of reckoning a portion of a day or year as though it were a complete one. R3903:6, 5017:4, 2796:2
Dr. Abbott points out that the Christian observance of Sunday is of itself a strong testimony in support of our Lord's resurrection. R2796:3
He did not arise from the dead the next instant after he expired on the cross. R3174:5
Jesus was in hell during the three days following the crucifixion. The hell of the Scriptures is not the hell of the creeds, but the condition of death, the grave. Jesus was in the tomb, the grave. Q784:2, 352:3; R5017:4
The reason that Christ rose the third day was to represent the days of the plan, each day being a type of a thousand years. R92:5*
The Church will not be raised up until the time of its completion, in the end of the Gospel age. R3174:4
According to the Scriptures – Paul must have referred to the Old Testament for the New Testament was yet unwritten. R92:5*
Indirectly taught in the sign of Jonah. R92:5*
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| 5 And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: |
And that – Prosecuting his argument, the Apostle marshaled the whole chain of witnesses, except the women who first saw the Lord on the morning of his resurrection. R5034:3, 4187:6; Q820:T
He proceeds to recount the evidence respecting our Lord's resurrection, apparently confining himself to those manifestations which our Lord made to the apostles. R4187:6
The resurrection of Christ, attested by many infallible proofs (Acts 1:3) is the guarantee that all tain a complete resurrection. R1591:3; Q820:T
Was seen of – Had Jesus not tarried forty days, the disciples, stunned and bewildered, would have had no assurance of the resurrection. R5026:4; OV355:2
The Lord adopted the only reasonable way of helping his disciples to understand that he was no longer dead--that he had risen from the dead--and that he was no longer human, but had been glorified. R5026:5, 4994:5, 3377:4; OV355:2
Cephas – Peter. R5034:1, 4187:6, 2478:3
The third appearance after his resurrection. R2478:3, 3905:3
Then of the twelve – The remainder of the twelve. R5034:1
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| 6 After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. |
He was seen – At Christ's ninth appearance after his resurrection. R3905:5
Near the close of the forty days of his invisible presence after his resurrection; the sixth occasion of the kind. R2808:3
A materialization and manifestation of the Lord. R3377:4
Above five hundred brethren – In Galilee. R3905:5, 5589:2, 3376:1
Witnesses of the resurrection. R5589:2, 4794:2, 2072:3
A general company of his followers. R3905:5
Of the household of faith. NS322:1
Brethren who believed on him during his ministry. NS642:3, 324:3
The seventy evangelists were undoubtedly a part. R3346:3
The apostles, and other faithful brethren; a small remnant as compared with the whole nation. R3476:2, 4187:6, 3340:6, 1414:6
Implying a keen interest on the part of several times that number. R2674:1
"And when they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted." (Matt. 28:17) Those who doubted must ha those who had already communed with Jesus since his resurrection. R2809:3
There were only five hundred who believed on Jesus until after his death, when there were thousands added to the number. R5163:3
A list of Dr. Bordman's suggestions of some of those composing this number. R2808:6
At once – At one time. R5237:2, 3376:1
This meeting was by special appointment of time and place; hence there was an opportunity for all the deeply interested ones to be gathered together. R2808:6, 3905:5
The greater part remain – This epistle was written about twenty-four years after the crucifixion, and Paul assures us that, at the time he wrote, over two hundred and fifty witnesses of our Lord's resurrection were still living. R2478:6
Unto this present – The time the Apostle was writing. R3376:1
Are fallen asleep – In death, awaiting the resurrection morning. E345; R4994:3, 2197:6, 1881:2
Used in full view of the ransom by which all were redeemed from the Adamic sentence. R2197:6
The condition of all the dead, up to the time when the resurrection begins, is one of total unconsciousness. R4794:2
Not dead in the same sense that the brute beasts are dead--actually. R4994:3
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| 7 After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. |
After that – Later. R5034:1
Seen of James – At his tenth appearance after his resurrection, at the close of the forty days, probably at Jerusalem. R3905:5
Then of all – When he ascended. R5034:1
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| 8 And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. |
And – Paul is summing up the strongest kind of evidence respecting our Lord's resurrection. R4187:6
Last of all – As a glorious spirit being. F723; R1873:6, 550:3
Years after our Lord's previous appearances. R3905:5
Paul declares that he was one of the apostles--the last. R1419:2; HG311:5
He was seen of me – He was seen by me. R550:3
On the way to Damascus. E277
Some miraculous power was exercised to enable him to see the Lord, for normally a natural eye cannot see a spirit being. R5408:3; HG25:5; NS322:1
A momentary glimpse of our Lord, to enable Saul to be the twelfth Apostle. R5408:6
All of the apostles must be eye witnesses of his resurrection. R162:5, 5408:3, 3905:5, 2478:6, 1522:5; F214; CR467:5
He was not thus seen by the other apostles. They saw merely the various forms in which he appeared. R5035:1, 1873:6, 550:3
He did not see Jesus under a vail of flesh, as he appeared to the others before the spirit dispensation began. R2478:6, 1873:6
He saw Jesus, as we shall see him when born, a spirit being. CR468:2
Paul was discussing the resurrection of the dead. He realized that on that great fact rested the weight of the Gospel message. To an incredulous world it was difficult to prove that Jesus had risen. R5033:3
The climax of the argument was reached; he had a demonstration in the blinding flash of light which felled him to the earth, and in the voice which said to him alone, "I am Jesus whom thou persecutest." (Acts 26:15) R5034:4
As of one born – As by one born. B134; R550:3
Like one born. R1558:3
The Church must all be begotten of the holy Spirit in order to experience the resurrection birth. R5035:1
Saul needed something to thoroughly arouse him and to teach him, and others through him, that the Lord is not a man, but "that Spirit." R5026:4; OV355:3
Out of due time – Before the due time; before the time when it will be ours to see him as he is. B134; F215; R5623:4, 5416:6, 5408:3, 5035:1, 3905:5, 2479:1, 1558:3, 242:3; CR468:1
As one prematurely born. R5034:6, 4187:6, 3905:5
As one resurrected before the time. R5035:1, 242:3
As one "born from the dead." R1523:1
Before the time for the Church's exaltation and glory. R1523:1, 5623:4, 5035:1; PD71/85
More than eighteen centuries before the time. Saul's experiences were out of the ordinary. No one else than he alone were to see the Lord before their resurrection change, in the end of this age. R5034:6
Saul of Tarsus saw our Lord as a spirit being "shining above the brightness of the sun" at noonday. (Acts 26:13) R5416:6, 5299:2, 5034:2, 4187:6, 2478:8, 579:1, 550:3
Paul was not really entitled to see the Lord in glory before the remainder of the Church at his second advent. F215
The time for giving ocular demonstrations of the Lord's resurrection had gone by; the next manifestation of him is to be to his saints, and after that to the world. R5034:6
Not having been thus born himself by a resurrection change to the newness of nature, the sight was a calamity to his flesh. R2479:1, 579:1; CR468:2
Those begotten of the holy Spirit now are to be born of the Spirit in the resurrection. R5416:6; B134
The peculiar experiences, visions, revelations, etc., granted to Paul, who took the place of Judas, have been more helpful than those of any other of the apostles. F215
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| 9 For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. |
Least of the apostles – One of those specially commissioned of God and recognized of the Church as God's representatives. R1419:3
God never recognized any but twelve apostles. R162:5
I persecuted the church – There is something pathetic in this reference to Paul's own glimpse of Jesus. It called up the period of his own bigoted persecution of the Church, because they believed that Jesus died and rose again; the very thing he was now trying to testify to. R5034:2
Paul remembered his astonishment at learning that those whom he had persecuted were not renegade and deceived Jews, but highly esteemed and acknowledged by this Great One. R5034:2
He frequently referred to the matter with contrition. R1885:4
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| 10 But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. |
More abundantly – To testify to his appreciation of the grace bestowed, and to be long-suffering with others as God had been with him. R1885:4
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| 11 Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. |
So we preach – The Apostle sums up the essence of his preaching. In verse 1 he calls this the Gospel. R4994:5
While the merit of the redemption resided in the sacrifice of Christ, yet the redemption itself was equally dependent upon his resurrection, because a dead Savior could not help us. R4188:1
Paul proves Christ's resurrection as an evidence of the power of God to raise the dead in general, for this was the general preaching of the apostles--viz: "They preached through Jesus (the value of his death as our redemption price) the resurrection of the dead." (Acts 4:2) R95:1
"I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God." (Acts 20:27) R2220:5
So ye believed – The foundations of any system are easily discovered, and there is only one true foundation--Christ, the ransom. R1900:1
So the apostles preached, and so the primitive Christians believed; so we preach and so our hearers believe. R601:6*
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| 12 Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? |
Rose from the dead – Verses 12-19 call attention to the great importance of the doctrine of the resurrection, presenting it as the twin of the other great doctrine which the Apostle sets forth "first of all." (Verse 3) R1591:2; NS321:6
Paul's argument from Verses 12 to 22 is that death is a horrible reality; that the only hope of escape from it is through a resurrection. NS566:6
Our Lord's resurrection is God's guarantee of a resurrection to all our race, for which Christ died. R1511:1, 5579:2, 1545:4
The assurance that he is now able to deliver those that trust in him and who wait for his time of deliverance. HG137:2
It was Christ's soul that died; his very existence had ceased, he was absolutely dead three days. R2794:6
Say some among you – Some of Paul's hearers claimed that it was much more easy to believe that Jesus never died at all, but merely transmuted, than to believe that he died for our sins and rose again for our justification. R5033:6
The erroneous teachings of some, that there would be no resurrection of the dead. R868:3, 4521:3, 4187:6
You occupy an unreasonable, a ridiculous position when you say that a resurrection of the dead is an impossibility. R705:3
Or as some now would perhaps state it, there is no necessity for a resurrection from the dead. NS2:2
No resurrection – One of the most prominent doctrines of the New Testament. R1508:6
Greek, anastasis, without the Greek article, hence no emphasis, no special peculiarity. R1512:1
How is it that you do not see the importance of the doctrine of the resurrection respecting the Church? R4188:1, 3563:5
The Platonic theory that the dead are alive. R3563:5, 4187:6, 3903:6, 3774:2; NS2:1
When many, imbued with the Platonic theory, had become interested in Christ, they were associating the Platonic view with the Christian view that death is the penalty for sin. R3563:5, 3174:5
Of the dead – Not of the body; the soul, the being, is resurrected. R2187:3, 3564:2, 1509:2
A dead Christ, one not raised from death, can never bless you. R705:3
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| 13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: |
No resurrection – Greek, anastasis, a full raising up to perfection of life and health. R1451:1, 1512:1
Without the Greek article, hence no emphasis, no special peculiarity. R1512:1
On no Christian doctrine does there seem to be a greater confusion in all denominations than on the subject of the resurrection of the dead. Nevertheless, all Christendom unites in declaring that our Lord's resurrection was an indispensable necessity to our salvation. R2794:1; NS320:3
If the dead were really alive, as taught by Christendom, there would be no need of a resurrection. R4521:3, 4791:1, 2794:4, 1450:6; C117
If, as some claim, the doctrine of the resurrection is foolish and false, then Christ is not risen. R4188:1
Whoever would believe the doctrine of the resurrection, must also believe the doctrine respecting death--that death is death, the cessation of life. R4791:6
The doctrine of the resurrection itself is peculiar to the Jewish and Christian religions. R3903:5
The very basis of all hope of a future life. A60; R5333:5, 4791:1, 3374:3
Without a resurrection there would be no hope. R4187:6, 3903:5; SM115:1
In that event, death would have been more than a sleep. It would have meant extinction. R5180:6, 4175:4; CR242:4
Of the dead – The unanimous testimony is that the dead are dead; that "in that very day their thoughts perish." (Psa. 146:4) R4792:1
Then – Neither hath Christ been raised. R3563:5
Is Christ not risen – But is still dead. E348
If the resurrection of the dead is an impossibility, it must have been an impossibility in our Lord's case, is the argument. NS2:2
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| 14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. |
And if – The glorious doctrine of the resurrection finds no place in any religious system except Christianity. R1774:1
Christ be not risen – But is still dead. E348
Do you say, What if he is not risen? R4188:1
Then the death penalty upon Adam and his race has not been met. R5018:4
Death would have been an eternal sleep. R5768:4
Then we are yet under condemnation, not reconciled to the Father. R3563:6
Upon the death of Jesus and his resurrection hang the resurrection hope of the Church and of the world. R4588:1, 5017:4,6, 3905:5; SM115:2; HG331:5; NS783:2
As the death of Jesus was absolutely necessary as the atoning price for human sin, so the resurrection of Jesus was absolutely necessary, that he might be glorified and come again to effect the resurrection of his Church and awaken the world. R5017:6
Had the Father not raised him from the dead, it would have implied some unfaithfulness, some failure on our Lord's part. R4588:1, 3563:6
Our preaching – Teaching. NS283:2
Of the Gospel. R1591:1
Christian preaching. NS2:3, 320:6
There is no gospel if Christ is not risen. HG217:1
Faith is also vain – Our hope is gone. R5612:1
All faith, all hope is vain. OV329:6
Faith in a resurrection is a part of Christian doctrine without which the entire fabric would be senseless. R1511:1
Because a dead Christ could know nothing and could help nobody. E348
If he had not arisen, how could he have made application of his human rights on our behalf? R4588:1
While the doctrine of redemption is the central doctrine of the Christian system, the doctrine of the resurrection is the end of our faith, our glorious hope through Christ. R1774:2
All Christian preaching and all Christian faith is vain if there be no resurrection of the dead. CR242:3; R5768:2, 4, 2170:4, 1511:1; NS96:2
The Apostle lays the whole stress of future salvation upon a future resurrection of the dead, and he unites the resurrection hope of mankind with the resurrection of our Lord. NS2:3
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| 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. |
We – Apostles. R2102:2, 3563:6
False witnesses – Wicked deceivers instead of divinely appointed ambassadors. E348
Their teachings are all false. R3563:6
Other religions ignore the necessity for a resurrection, and claim that those who die are more alive than they were before their death. R3903:5, 4791:2
If God's people could all come back to the simplicity of the Bible's teaching in respect to the resurrection of the dead, all the differences of the six hundred denominations would speedily disappear. R5016:6
He raised up Christ – Christ could never have raised himself. R2795:2
No agency of man, nor even of the angel Gabriel, was permitted in the work of our Lord's resurrection. R1005:4
If the resurrection of Christ was necessary, the resurrection of the Church and of the world is also necessary. R4188:1, 5017:6
If so be that – If it be true that. E348
The dead rise not – That the resurrection of the dead is an impossibility. R2102:2; NS783:2
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| 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: |
If the dead rise not – Not, "if the body rise not." E377
If the resurrection of the dead be denied it would imply a disbelief in Christ's resurrection; for if it was possible for God to raise Christ, it is equally possible for him to raise whoever else he may choose. R1854:6
The Apostle was writing to those who believed in the resurrection of Jesus, but who disbelieved in the necessity for their own resurrection. R4175:4
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| 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. |
Be not raised – Risen from the dead. Paul in no way shared the views of those who unscripturally claimed that Jesus, while dead, was really alive. R5579:2
There could be no message of hope of divine favor through a dead Savior. R5579:2
It would have been a waste and loss to purchase us had he not had in view a resurrection, which would enable him to bless those bought. R705:2
If Jesus remained dead, he did not complete the work he undertook, he did not become the Savior, the Deliverer. R3563:6, 705:2
The Heavenly Father gave evidence that the ransom-price was entirely satisfactory; and our Lord, who was obedient to the Father, was raised from the dead. R4793:2
His resurrection is evidence (1) that in him was no sin, (2) he had a merit in God's sight by reason of his sacrifice, which he presented, and (3) assurance that God will accomplish restitution through him. R1394:6
Your faith is vain – So important is the doctrine of the resurrection, that Paul declares that without it the hope and faith of the Church is vain. R1816:2, 1505:2
The basis of all your hopes and faith drops out. R4175:4
Our hope of forgiveness of sins through the merit of Christ's sacrifice is a vain one. R3563:6
And we who have espoused the cause of Christ are most wretchedly deceived. R4181:1
We might as well abandon any expectation of a future life unless there be a resurrection of the dead. CR170:4
If you claim our Lord was alive, "more alive than ever" during the three days, the Scriptures say he was in the dead. E350; 723:1
Yet in your sins – And under the death penalty, without a ray of hope. R1591:3
Christ has made no atonement acceptable to God. HG137:3
As Jesus' death ransoms man from the sentence of death, so his resurrection from death became the assurance of the justification of all who accept and obey him. R4793:1
If the doctrine of substitution be true, verses 17 and 18 cannot be. R705:1*
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| 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. |
Then they also – This verse contains a statement that nearly all Christian people have overlooked or misunderstood. Q820:T
"If there be no resurrection of the dead." (1 Cor. 15:13) E345; SM100:2
Asleep – In death, awaiting the resurrection morning. E345; R5017:6, 4794:2, 4793:4, 2197:6, 1881:1
The apostles frequently used this appropriate, hopeful and peaceful figure of speech. E345; R1881:1; HG332:2
The word sleep implies that in the divine purpose a future life is intended, and will eventually be given. R5017:3
All who have faith in the resurrection might be spoken of as falling asleep now, assured that there is a glorious awakening coming. CR321:3
Distinguishing between the Church, who are in Christ, as members of his Body; and the world of mankind in general, who "sleep in Jesus." R2528:3, 5354:1, 4794:2, 3174:4, 2197:5; NS837:6
When the new creature falls asleep, it is asleep as a spirit being; waiting for the resurrection change. R4668:4; Q587:6
It is that which falls asleep, not that which turns to corruption, that is to be awakened, resurrected. E377
In Christ – Trusting in Jesus. HG137:3
Christ is the title of our Lord as the new creature and of his office. Jesus is the name for the Redeemer, through whose sacrifice comes to all men an opportunity to share in a resurrection of the dead. R4794:3
Are perished – Greek: apollomee, destroyed. E350
Destroyed, annihilated; disintegrated into the dust. Q820:T; R1018:1*
Like the brute beasts. OV352:2; NS782:2
If Christ was not put to death and resurrected. Q820:T
If Christ did not rise from the dead you must logically believe that the resurrection of his followers will be like his. R4175:4
There is no hope of a future life. R5354:1, 934:1*, 846:5; NS2:3
Contrary to Satan's doctrine of human immortality. C116, C117; R5017:5, 802:3*
Contrary to the teachings of Spiritism. R2170:2; SM100:2; OV296:3; HG723:1; NS96:2, 125:5
"The dead know not anything." (Eccl. 9:5) R5579:2; NS96:2
Except they be restored to life by a resurrection. R1591:5
The hope of the resurrection is set before us in the Gospel. OV296:3
If they are gone to paradise, or to heaven, could there be any question about perishing? HG137:3; 347:4; NS321:1
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| 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. |
In this life only – So important is this doctrine, that Paul emphatically declares that, if it be not true, then there is no hope for any man beyond the present life. The preaching of the gospel is in vain. R1591:2, 1259:2
Hope in Christ – And if our joys are dependent upon the circumstances of this life merely. F678
Most miserable – If God has provided no resurrection for the dead then our future is hopeless and we might as well eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow we die. (Verse 32) R4175:4
Our life of sacrifice, in view of the resurrection and its rewards, merely robs us of what little enjoyment and advantage may be gained in the present life. R1591:2
The case of both the Church and the world are hopeless. F695
We who are hoping and seeking for a future life are deceived and will be sadly disappointed. R1259:2
Yet the hope in Christ is not merely for the things of the life to come, but also for this present life. NS104:6
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| |
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| 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. |
But now – With close argument Paul reaches the conclusions of Verses 20-22. R95:1
Verses 20-26 emphasize the truthfulness of the resurrection. R1591:3
Paul assures us that there is best ground for faith in God's power and purpose to have a resurrection, and that the resurrection of our Lord Jesus is the proof of this. R1259:2; F695
While the death of Christ was the greatest event in history, his resurrection from death readily holds second place. Without his resurrection our race would have been helpless and hopeless. R3563:1, 1631:6, 1591:2; NS321:6
"It was not possible that he should be holden of death." (Acts 2:24) because he had accomplishs of high exaltation to the divine nature. R2795:3
The same justice which had operated for four thousand years against Adam and his race because of transgression was not operative on behalf of Jesus for his deliverance from death. R2795:3
Is Christ risen – Christ has been raised. R95:1
Resurrected and glorified by divine power. R1692:1
Jesus was the first to be raised completely out of death's power; to perfection of life, of being, on any plane of existence. R3563:4, 3174:3, 1591:3
It is no fable. It was not only necessary to our salvation, but it is a fact well attested. R3564:1, 3174:6, 1545:4
Giving us assurance that death shall not always have dominion over us. R1505:1, 5579:2, 1631:6; NS322:1
"I am he that liveth and was dead; and behold, I am alive forevermore." (Rev. 1:18) R3563:3, 2794:6
The Scriptures lay great stress on the importance of the resurrection and deduce various proofs and demonstrations intended to establish our faith in it. All four evangelists give details with great particularity. R3564:1, 3374:6, 2795:6, 2476:2; NS322:1
From the dead – Death implies extinction. R1631:6, 3563:1
His death satisfied the claims of justice against us. R1505:2
Our Lord's sacrifice--the death of the man Christ Jesus--was an everlasting death, which fully offset the penalty upon father Adam, and as Adam's substitute the man Jesus could never be released. R2476:6
Churchianity does not believe in the resurrection of the dead. It has adopted the heathen theory that the dead are not dead, but alive. R3173:3, 5016:3, 3374:2, 2476:5, 2187:3, 1889:4*
Many Christian people hold that there is no such thing as death; that what appears to be death is merely a transformation to a larger degree of life; and so our Lord Jesus did not die for our sins, but merely shed off an outer covering of flesh. R2476:5; HG137:2
Heathen philosophies assume that the dead are not dead, but more alive than ever before. R3563:2
The firstfruits – In his resurrection; the firstborn from the dead. R2796:4
Our Lord was the first fruit of all. R3131:6
And a pledge of the resurrection of those whose resurrection God has promised. R1204:1
A first fruit. R95:1
None preceded him. R2796:5
None having been raised from the dead previously. None having gone to heaven previously. R1591:5; F676
The first to experience a resurrection in the full sense, to perfection and everlasting life. R1591:3, 2811:5
"That he should be the first that should rise from the dead." (Acts 26:23) "The firstborn among many R3174:4, 4563:3, 3563:3, 2747:5, 2618:5, 2447:3, 1857:1, 1259:2
The waving of the barley sheaf of first-fruits on the 16th of Nisan typified the resurrection of Christ. R2271:1
In harmony with the type in Lev. 23:15-21. R5831:3, 2271:1,3
We have the promise of a future life through Christ and the example of the Father's power in the resurrection of our dear Redeemer: but Jesus had no such evidence of the divine power; he himself was to be the "first-born from the dead." (Col. 1:18) R2467:3; HG229:4
"That in all things he might have the pre-eminence." (Col. 1:18) R2288:6, 2288:6
As the firstfruits of the sleeping ones, Jesus is an example and a guarantee of the fulfillment of the divine promise that "there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust." (Acts 24:15) R5017:4,6; R4498:5, R2796:5, R351:1*
The Church are to have part in "his resurrection," "the first resurrection"; and are to be joint-heirs with him in his Millennial Kingdom. R1505:4, 4175:4, 3564:1, 3377:5, 3174:4, 2796:5, 361:2
The raising of Jairus' daughter was not a resurrection, nor were any of the other cases of awakening from death recorded in the Scriptures. R2618:5, 5025:1, 3706:6, 3563:4, 2811:5, 2796:5, 1591:3, 1259:1; OV352:1; HG136:1; 646:3; NS637:2
The transfiguration scene was a "vision" where the unreal appears real. Moses and Elijah could not have been there, since they were not resurrected from the dead. R2288:3, 4142:4*
A firstfruits implies after fruits. R4175:5, 3563:4, 1505:2
You never have firstfruits unless you expect after fruits. HG137:3
The after fruits of God's great plan will be developed during the Millennial age. R2796:6
Them that – Of those having fallen asleep. R95:1
Slept – In death. R2197:6, 3174:3
Which implies that when he was raised the others still slept. R5017:4
If our Lord became the firstfruits of them that slept, then he slept. R4175:5
Christ himself "slept" for parts of three days. NS637:1
The proper figure of death, in view of the divine purposes and promises, permits it to be called by the more comforting term, sleep, which expresses both our hope for the dead, and our faith in God. R3174:3, 2796:5
The apostles frequently used this appropriate, hopeful and peaceful figure of speech. E345; R1881:1; HG332:2
Natural sleep illustrated the condition of mankind in death; when a man is soundly asleep he knows nothing; when a man is dead he knows nothing. CR242:5
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| 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. |
For since by man – As by a man. R5768:2, 4792:2, 4775:4, 2794:5, 2528:2, 2150:1, 1204:1, 1060:5; CR278:2; SM73:1, 171:2, 658:2; OV377:1; HG654:2; NS428:2, 833:2
Since through a man. (Diaglott) R2395:4, 527:3*, 482:2*, 381:4, 360:2, 95:1
A perfect man. A178; R482:2*
Adam. SM73:1; R5141:4, 4792:2, 3706:6, 1856:4, 1718:2, 1673:3, 1509:4, 1247:5, 62:4*; F695; CR65:5; OV377:T; HG646:3; NS178:2, 428:2
The original sinner was Adam, and his children have shared his penalty. R2794:5, 5530:6, 3174:5, 803:3; CR242:5; OV406:6, 392:2; SM658:2
God would not permit more than one member of the human race to be tried and sentenced to death; for his purpose from the beginning was that the sacrifice of one life should redeem the entire human race. R5872:6, 5211:1, 5141:4
If two or more separate individuals had sinned and involved the race, it would have required just as many redeemers, according to the divine law, a man's life for a man's life. (Deut. 19:21) R5141:4
As all the world came into the death condition by one man's disobedience, so all are to be rescued from death conditions by the obedience of another one. R5314:4; SM588:1; HG137:4
If the fall is denied, then no redemption is needed. R4792:2
Came death – Comes death. R4775:4; OV138:2
There is death. (Diaglott) R2395:4, 527:3*, 482:2*, 381:4, 360:2, 95:1
Of the entire race. R5530:6
The curse. CR242:5; PD11/18
Mental, moral and physical degradation, culminating in utter dissolution, utter loss. R1509:4
Death is the wage or penalty of God's law against sinners. R3774:1
By one man sin entered into the world and death as the result of sin. R4869:4
By one man the whole trouble came; by another man the whole trouble will be rectified. R5872:6
As death came as a result of something done by man (Adam) so the resurrection comes as a result of something done by another man. R1259:2
God condemned the race as a whole that he might have mercy upon the race as a whole. NS474:6
Since twenty thousand millions of souls have sinned, it would, in any other way than God's way, have required twenty thousand million redeemers. OV406:6
Not eternal torment. SM73:1, 586:2; R803:3; CR242:5, 209:1; OV376:3; HG193:6; 654:2; NS827:4
By man – By a man. R5768:2, 5018:4, 4792:2, 2794:5, 2528:2, 2150:1, 1204:1, 1060:5; CR278:2; SM171:2, 658:2; HG646:2; 654:2; NS178:2, 428:2
Through a man also. (Diaglott) R2395:4, 527:3*, 482:2*, 381:4, 360:2, 95:1
The man Christ Jesus. R4792:2, 5354:1, 5530:6, 3706:6, 1673:3, 1247:5, 1086:3; F696; HG609:4
Jesus, the Redeemer. OV406:6; HG646:3
By one man also comes reconciliation, freedom from sin. R4869:4
It was a man who forfeited his life; it was a man also who gave himself a price in offset. R4854:3, 3174:5; Q658:3
The rights that man needs are earthly rights, human rights. R4905:1, 5157:1; Q442:4
A corresponding price; a ransom for the first man's life and life-rights. R5157:1, 5873:1, 5060:5, 4905:1, 4171:1, 1856:4, 1673:3, 1509:4, 611:3, 418:1, 164:4; Q442:4; SM658:2
By the only possible ransom, "The man Christ Jesus, who gave himself a ransom for all." (1 Tim. 2:5,6) B107; A178; T52; SM73:1; R3710:1, 3621:6, 2150:1, 1854:6, 1591:6, 1567:6, 1508:3, 1259:2, 1177:6, 726:6, 720:1
By neither more nor less than a perfect man could the first man be redeemed. A178; E95, E425; R4964:1
Not a man such as we are, full of inherited imperfections and blemishes. He was "holy, harmless, separate from sinners. (Heb. 7:26) E95; R5873:1
The taking of human nature was necessary, because it was a man that had sinned, and as by a man came death, by a man also must the resurrection of the dead be secured. R2794:5
He became flesh (holy, undefiled) in order to pay the price or penalty against us--death. R981:2
This mighty one must become a man in every particular. He must partake of "flesh and blood." (Heb. 2:14) R418:1, 164:4; E425
He never took back the "flesh and blood," he never will take back our ransom price. R720:1
Recovery would be by a man's redemptive work. R5050:5
There could have been no resurrection without this redemptive work, the substitution of our Lord's soul for the soul of Adam. R3174:5, 3706:6
The death of Jesus was the ransom for sinners. R3774:2
Universal redemption of mankind. R5925:1
God arranged this death sentence purposely, so as to make necessary the death of Jesus. R5768:2; OV329:5
By the sacrifice of a perfect human existence is secured the right of the priest to restore. To secure this right he must first satisfy the demands of justice, which required the extinction of the human race, and could only be met by a corresponding sacrifice--a human life. R3951:2, 713:2; OV24:1
One sacrifice for sin would make possible the reconciliation of the entire race. NS827:6
The sacrifice of the man Christ Jesus will ultimately be made available for the sins of the world, because the children of Adam are counted as members of the one man. R4499:4, 5108:5; SM658:2; OV406:6, 407:T
God purposed that the entire race should be born from the one pair, in order that, when sin should enter and involve the whole human family, the death of one person would suffice to redeem the entire race. R5900:1, 5141:4
"The just for the unjust." (1 Pet. 3:18) R5919:5, 4792:6, 4775:2; CR278:3; NS833:2
Because of sin, it was necessary to find an outsider to be the world's Redeemer; and whether angel, cherub, or the great Michael himself, the Logos, he must exchange the spirit nature for the human nature. R5873:1, 3174:6
Current theology says that our redemption is secured by the sacrifice of a God, not a man. R1591:6
Came also – Also comes. R4775:4, 4498:6; SM73:1, 586:1; OV139:2; OV377:1; HG189:3; NS825:1
Must come. R1247:5
Should come. SM171:2
Is to come. R1204:1
Comes. CR65:5; OV139:2
Also might come. NS833:2
Was secured. R1509:4
There is a resurrection. (Diaglott) R2395:4, 527:3*, 482:2*, 381:4, 360:2, 95:1; CR279:1
The right or authority to awaken the dead, and to bring some or all to perfection, was gained by our Lord by his death as a ransom for all. R1854:6
Paul declares the decision of God for a general resurrection. NS178:2
It is from the death-curse that Messiah rescues all. PD11/18
Adam was the father of the race and failed to give it life. Jesus is to become its second father, the Second Adam, through whom everlasting life may be attained. PD9/16
Our Lord's mission to earth at the first advent was to undo for the race, legally, the results of Adam's transgression, and to secure the right to resurrect them and restore them. R1125:4, 705:4
Truly God condemned all in one, that he might have mercy upon all through another one. R381:4
The resurrection – Greek, anastasis; without the Greek article, hence no emphasis, no special peculiarity. R1512:1, 360:2
The resurrection blessing is made to all. R1511:1
The complete restoration to all that was lost, a full raising up to perfection, the image and likeness of God at first enjoyed. R1509:4, 360:5; NS551:4
Raising up completely out of death and imperfection. R4999:1, 3774:1, 709:4
Resurrection means "a setting up again," "rebuilding," "restoring" of humanity from every vestige of death to the perfection of their nature as represented by their head, Adam. R360:3
Since Christ is risen from the dead there is therefore an assurance of the resurrection. R5612:1
God having arranged, through the ransom which Christ Jesus gave for all, that all who come into relationship with Christ the Redeemer may inherit lasting life, even as all by relationship with Adam inherited his condemnation to death. R1204:1
If God had not provided a sinless Redeemer, and he had not died for our sins, and risen for our justification, then there would have been no future life for humanity. R5768:2, 5291:5, 5166:3
The dead – The entire race. R5530:6
Since Adam was the representative of the whole human family, therefore, all of the human race must share with him in the benefits to accrue through the redemption provided by Jesus, his substitute. Q816:2
The sin leading to "mortal error" is atoned for by divine favor, to the intent that all sinners may be rescued from "mortal error"--from death. OV377:1
If Jesus merely gave proof of the possibility of a resurrection, then Paul would be made to mean that Adam merely proved the possibility of death. R640:2
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| 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. |
For as in Adam all – The better translation: For as all in Adam. (Revised Version) R3926:6, 5612:1, 5211:1, 5018:4, 4792:2, 4775:4, 4498:6, 3132:2, 2528:2, 2100:4, 1511:2, 1437:1, 1219:2; A129; F695; CR65:5; SM54:1, 73:1, 171:2, 586:1; HG395:2; 654:2; NS567:1, 825:1
By, through, or on account of. R838:3, 827:1, 729:6, 676:6*, 527:3*, 360:2, 329:2, 95:1
All of Adam's posterity, all who are in him. R3926:6, 1259:2; Q741:2
As by Adam's disobedience the race became dead. R62:2; CR278:3; Q741:2
This includes mother Eve. She was in Adam in the sense that she was a part of Adam's family. Q263:7; R139:1*
And Eve indirectly--God "called their name Adam." (Gen. 5:2) R729:6, 252:6, 139:1*
Eve's identity was so linked with Adam's that, even if she had not sinned in partaking of the forbidden fruit, she would as part of him, have shared his penalty--death. R2100:5, 777:1; E102; Q263:7
But not in (through) Eve. R776:5
It was Adam as a soul (being) that was sentenced to death, and it was the souls of his posterity yet in his loins, unborn, that shared in him the penalty. R1510:2, 1854:6; OV406:6
We were in him--in the sense that he was the father of the whole human family--when he sinned and was put under the dominion of death. R1043:5
As all men were counted sinners and condemned to death on account of Adam. R145:2*
Adam's sin was the world's sin because he was the world--the race of natural men being in him. R145:2*
Adam, as the federal head of his family, was its representative in Eden. All of his posterity are involved in everything affecting him. Q816:2
"By the offence of one, sentence of condemnation came on all men." (Rom. 5:18) R1125:2, 827:1, 676:6*, 541:2*, 513:2, 351:1*, 329:2, 145:2*; Q760:2, 818:4; SM588:1; HG292:2
A fundamental teaching of Christ and his apostles is the fall of man into sin and its penalty--death. R3106:6
Adam's life was natural; and its continuance conditioned on obedience. That is all the universal salvation we can find held out to mankind in the Bible. R404:1, 221:6
The Negro being a descendant of father Adam and coming under the judgment of death passed upon Adam, passes at death into exactly the same condition as that occupied by all other members of the Adamic race. HG511:6
Die – Lose life in full measure. F695, F697
Dying as a result of Adam's disobedience. Failing to maintain his hold upon the gift of God, eternal life, he has also failed to transmit that character and degree of life to his children. R3926:6, 1219:2
The dying sentence came upon the world through Adam and has continued for six thousand years. CR279:2
The six thousand years of crying and dying have been an awful lesson to the world of the exceeding sinfulness of sin. R3926:6
And all the mental, moral and physical blemishes of our race are a part of this heredity. NS827:5
Contrary to Christian Science. OV376:2
Death, not eternal torment. OV376:3, 377:T; SM586:3; HG193:6; NS339:6, 827:4, 830:3
Even so – In the same sense, and to the same extent. R145:2*, 676:6*
As Eve, the instrument of Adamic death, is included here "in Adam," so the next phrase "in Christ" must include the Church. R139:1*
In Christ shall all – The better translation: shall all in Christ. (Revised Version) R3926:6, 5612:1, 5211:1, 5018:4, 4792:2, 4775:4, 2528:2, 1511:5, 1437:1, 1219:2; A129; F695; CR65:5; Q761:1; SM73:1, 171:2, 586:1; HG395:2; 654:2; NS567:1, 825:1
The Greek text supports this rendering, and no other view of verse 22 could be reconciled with the context, verses 23, 24. R3132:2
By, through, or on account of. R838:3, 1018:2*, 827:1, 676:6*, 526:6*, 329:2
By the anointed. (Diaglott) R527:3*, 360:2*, 95:2
The Christ. R729:6
Jesus and his Bride made one. (Eph. 5:27) R252:6
Paul is proving that the resurrection is for all mankind. SM54:1
The death of Christ is for all. All will hear his voice and come forth from the tomb. (John 5:28, 29) R5612:1, 5108:5, 5017:6, 4793:2, 1592:2, 1505:2, 903:2*
By Christ's obedience all were in God's sight justified to live again. R62:2
All who will come into relationship and harmony with God, through Christ, during this age or the Millennial age. R4657:3, 5429:6, 3132:1
If all were condemned in one, it would be equally just on God's part that all should be justified through the merit of the one Redeemer. SM307:T
The death of Jesus is made efficacious to all who will accept the benefit thereof, by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ. Q816:2
Christianity has a logical superiority in that it provides for a satisfaction of divine justice. R4982:2
No man can be made alive in Christ, or through Christ, except by coming into him and through him. R1219:2
If God had not provided a sinless Redeemer who died for our sins, there would have been no resurrection from the death condition. OV329:5
One sacrifice for sin made possible the reconciliation of the entire race. SM588:1
Christ is the "Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world." (John 1:29) R145:2*
On account of Christ's righteousness. R351:1*
All men are counted righteous and justified to life on account of Christ. R145:2*
The two companies of verse 23. R1437:1
Now is the opportunity of coming into relationship with Christ as his Bride; in the time of his presence the world of mankind in general will be granted an opportunity as children. R3927:4, 1855:1
Only the members of the "Body" can be said to be in Christ or to have any hope of sharing with him in his resurrection. R3174:4, 1855:1, 1854:6, 1219:2
We cannot suppose that in any sense the Nephilim would be included in the redemptive work of Jesus, who died only for Adam and his posterity. SM64:1
Angels were not in Adam, and did not share his sin and its penalty, death; neither did the lower animals. R1854:6
A wicked man dying out of Christ will not rise in Christ, as some fancy from a misunderstanding of this passage. R1449:2*
Be made alive – Gain life in full measure. F695, F697, F699; R1592:1, 95:1; Q761:1
Be restored to life. (Diaglott) R527:3*, 360:2, 95:1
Brought back from present dying, imperfect conditions, to the perfection of life. R2395:1, 95:1
In the resurrection morning for the Church, and also for the world in general in the Millennium as they "eat" Christ's flesh. (John 6:53) R3132:3, 1437:4
Made to share the blessing which the man Christ Jesus merited, but which he laid down in death on behalf of all those who will obey him. R1259:3; CR65:5
A full release from death, which is the great enemy. R3564:1, 1511:2
The death of Christ was for the very purpose of giving a second trial to Adam and all his race. R5639:1
The entire race lost life with Father Adam; and Christ died to secure a second chance for Adam and an individual chance for all of his race, who lost their first chance in Adam when he sinned. R4955:6; NS727:2
What Adam failed to accomplish, God proposes still to accomplish through Christ--a regeneration for the world. NS340:4
All shall be permitted to share in Adam's recovery from the power of the tomb, from sin and death. OV139:2, 380:6, 301:T; R3174:5, 1511:1
Share Christ's victory and have everlasting life. R1854:6
All that was lost in Adam will have been restored in Christ. R1149:3*, 545:2
He came into the world to meet Adam's penalty. PD7/13
He that gave himself a ransom for Adam, and who thus incidentally purchased not only him but all of his race who had lost life in him, this great Redeemer, is about to establish his rule of righteousness. R3926:6; SM73:2
No one will be made alive, except he come into Christ in the ways of faith and obedience appointed thereto. R3725:2
None will be made alive in the full, complete sense in which the word "alive" is here used, except those who in this age become the Redeemer's Bride, or in the next age, become his children. R1437:4
A restitution to life. NS846:4
The works of Jesus will last for a thousand years, lifting them up out of their dying condition. CR279:2
The remedy will be co-extensive in its results with the evil. R698:3
This declaration is set forth as the conclusion of the Apostle's argument preceding it. F695
The making "alive" of this verse is clearly the raising "of the dead" of the 21st verse. R726:6, 62:4*
This does not mean that Adam must first be redeemed and atoned for before any of his children can receive reconciliation. R4498:6, 4556:1
Father Adam will be one of the last to be awakened from the sleep of death. R4499:1; Q761:1
This making alive will be the resurrection of the dead--not of those particles of matter which have gone to fertilize a tree and then through its fruit become a part of another organism, but of the being--the soul. R5166:3, 5017:4, 4994:1, 1853:1; E349
Reach a state or condition of perfection and freedom from death. Not that all will be kept alive everlastingly, as taught by universal salvation. R1219:2, 1043:5*; F696; OV388:3; NS340:3
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| 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's during his presence. |
Every man – Of those in Christ to be made alive. R1437:1, 3132:1
In his own order – In his own band, or company. Q503:7; R4999:1, 4775:4, 1437:1; SM225:3; OV138:2; HG646:4; NS794:1
Class. OV388:3; R2528:2, 1855:1, 1511:2; CR430:5; SM225:3; HG434:2; NS340:5
Rank. R361:3, 404:2, 227:2*, 222:1*, 95:1
Band or cohort. HG495:3
Two orders, or classes or grades. R1259:3, 1855:1, 1511:2, 433:2, 361:3, 351:1
The spiritual order and the human order. R1259:3, 361:3
There is to be an order in Christ's work of life-giving. Every man who receives life will belong to one or another of these orders. R1204:1
God divides the salvation of mankind into two parts--the Church to spirit nature and the world to perfected human nature. NS827:6
The Gospel Church, the Bride, the Body of Christ, first. F699; R5530:6, 5018:4; OV226:T
The Church will be the first class and the world will be raised in the next age. CR279:2; SM589:1; HG344:4
The Church class first; then the Great Company; early in the new order of things the Ancient Worthies, and then the world of mankind. SM226:T; R5167:1, 361:5; Q16:2
The Ancient Worthies could not be perfected until the Church has been completed, "they without us, should not be made perfect." (Heb. 11:40) Q16:2
The world's awakening will merely bring them forth from the tomb in the condition in which they entered it. R5167:1
Theirs will be a resurrection to human perfection, but of gradual development; first the awakening, and subsequently the gradual raising up out of sin and death conditions. R4588:4
The privilege will be theirs of rising up, up out of present degradation, mental, moral, physical, to the glorious perfection which father Adam enjoyed in the image and likeness of his Creator. R4552:6
Since mankind will not all be raised at once, but in separate ranks or orders, during the thousand years, each new rank will find an army of helpers in those who will have preceded them. R655:5
Dealing with the world will begin with the generation living at the time of the establishment of the Kingdom, and will ultimately include all that are in their graves, in the reverse order from that in which they entered. SM440:2, 441:T
Gradually, after dealing with the living nations to some extent, the sleeping world will be awakened. NS782:5
God has time and order for everything, and he has wisely arranged for various ranks, or orders, or companies in the resurrection. R95:1
Christ's merit could not be released to apply to any others until all (both classes of the Church) who now have the imputation of this merit have finished their course. Q16:2
This indicates that several resurrections may take place before all are raised. Paul does not specify how many orders or companies there will be. R62:2
Intimating that from the divine standpoint there are numerous classes of the dead. HG434:2
Nothing is more simple than that death and resurrection are not at the same time. R89:5
Not all at once. OV198:2; R5832:4, 1204:1; SM225:3, 548:T; SM225:3; HG434:2; NS794:1
Christ – The anointed, the Messiah class. R5291:5, 1204:2
The Christ, Head and Body, Christ Jesus himself being the firstfruit of all. R3131:6, 277:6, 206:4, 184:1; SM54:1
The Gospel Church, the Bride, the Body of Christ. A106; R1855:1, 1592:1, 1437:1, 1204:2, HG654:2; NS390:5
The Head was raised eighteen hundred years ago, and the Body very soon. R277:6, 206:4
The whole Body of Christ, the Church. This is the "mystery hid from ages and generations." (Col. 1:26) NS341:2
Should read, "The anointed firstfruits." R5965:4
The firstfruits – The Church class. R5612:1, 5530:6, 1816:5, 868:5
The Body of Christ not only first in rank, but first in order of time. Q16:2; R2528:2, 1511:2, 1204:2
A firstfruit. R361:3, 95:1
The firstfruits class, firstborn class. NS390:5; R184:1
The chief of the two classes is mentioned first and includes the Redeemer and all of the Gospel age overcomers who are now having fellowship in "his sufferings," "his death." R1437:1
The spiritual order of which, the Body of Christ, under its Head, is represented in Israel's priesthood, and the second company represented in the Levites. R1259:3
As strawberries might be called the first fruits of the season, and the first strawberry ripened would be the first fruit of all; so Christ is the firstfruit and the Church together the "firstfruit unto God of his creatures." (James 1:18). R3131:6, 3377:6
Under the Law (Lev. 23:10) a sheaf was taken as a wa after, two wave loaves were brought out, typifying the Body of Christ. R33:6*
Even Christ was not raised until the third day after his death. R89:5
Church of the firstborn, including the Little Flock and the Great Company. Q15:6
Paul was writing to believers and informs them, that their resurrection is the first order. R62:2
Afterward – During the thousand years of Christ's reign. A106; R5018:4, 3132:2, 2528:2, 1855:1, 1259:3
During the Millennial age. A106; OV226:T; HG344:4
During his presence at his second advent in the Millennium. SM54:1
Next in order, or the remainder of those to be made alive in Christ. R1511:2
The world's order of time. R1816:5, 4999:2, 1511:2, 868:5
They – No matter when they died. R89:5
That are Christ's – Those who during the Millennial age shall become the Lord's people. R2935:3, 3132:1; OV226:T
By faith in his sacrifice. R1592:1, 1511:2
Whoever will accept the opportunity of coming into fellowship with the King Emmanuel will receive the blessing of an admission to Messiah's family. R5018:5
The world will become Christ's in the possessive sense. R4498:5
The human order brought to perfection as members of the great restitution class. R1259:3
The remainder of the world who shall come into Christ from the firstfruits class. NS342:1
"All them that believe in that day." (2 Thes. 1:10) HG337:1
All of the restored world will belong to the general family of Christ Jesus the Bridegroom and the Church his Bride will have the regenerated human family as their children on the earthly plane. R5965:4
Mankind will become Christ's children by the consecration of themselves. The symbolic baptism is a fitting picture of consecration to God on whatever plane of life, whether spiritual or earthly. R5965:4
At – The time of. R1437:1
During. R5291:5, 5018:5, 4498:5, 4175:5, 3132:1, 1855:1, 1592:2, 1511:2, 1437:1, 1204:2, 361:4, 95:1; SM586:1; HG337:1; NS825:1
In his presence, during his parousia, the thousand year's of Christ's reign. R5965:4, 4175:5; NS342:3
This evidently does not refer to the Church, for they are Christ's before his second advent, and with him constitute the firstfruits first mentioned. HG337:1; NS342:3
His coming – Greek, parousia; presence. A106; B159; R5291:5, 4498:5, 4175:5, 3132:1, 2978:6, 1855:1, 1693:1, 1592:2, 1437:1, 1259:3, 1204:2, 361:3, 277:6, 206:4, 223:2*, 62:2; SM586:1; OV226:T; HG337:1; NS342:1, 825:1
The thousand years of his Kingdom glory. R5018:5
During the Millennial reign of The Christ. (Rev. 20:4) R1855:1, 1592:2, 1511:2; HG337:1
The awakening of those who have slept in Jesus. R1816:3
The conversion of the world is not now. At his second advent, our Lord will conquer the world. R4288:1
This verse reaches down to and beyond the final trial at the end of the Millennial age represented in Rev. 20:7-10. R3132:2
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| 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. |
Then – At the end of the thousand year reign of Christ. R5164:5, 4999:2, 4882:1, 3456:5, 3322:1, 1601:4, 1234:1, 763:6, 418:5, 277:6, 206:5, 165:2; E78; CR270:4; Q781:1
In the end of the Millennial age. R453:3
Jesus during that age having put down all enemies. R95:2
Having accomplished his mission as regards the reconstruction or restitution of mankind. A304, A222
When all of the orders (Verse 23) are complete, when all have been brought to life and perfection either on the human or spiritual plane (except those who die the second death.) R277:6, 206:5
When the great Mediator-King shall resign, the lasting results of his redemptive work will have accomplished (1) the sealing of the New Covenant; (2) Harmony with God of a "little flock," (3) Full restitution of an earth full of perfect, happy human beings, (4) the destruction of all others of the race. E30
Until all shall be tested and the disobedient cut off from life. (Acts 3:23; Rev. 20:9) Then all the w very good f R1068:4
After all the companies or orders of the dead are raised, etc., when "all are made alive," having destroyed the last enemy, death. R62:3
When the Mediatorial work is completed, and mankind have been fully restored. CR486:1; F108
This verse represents the everlasting condition after the world shall have had the opportunity of coming into Christ as the "City of Refuge," and after all who would corrupt the earth are destroyed. R3132:2
Verses 24 and 25 assure us of the victory of Christ, and in what that victory will consist. R1592:4
Cometh – This word is not in any manuscript. R62:2, 763:1
The end – The Kingdom will then cease, in the sense that Christ will deliver the authority over to the Father. R4974:4, 568:6
The end of his mediatorial reign, it having accomplished its object. D645; R5164:5; NS84:4
Messiah will abdicate the throne, after his reign shall have accomplished its work. OV192:3, 341:6
The end of sin on earth, the end of the great work of ransoming mankind and bringing them into full harmony with their Creator. R277:6, 206:5
The finish of the great salvation which he began by the sacrifice of himself once for all. R1511:2, 763:6
At the end of the Millennium. R4555:2, 5183:4, 5073:6, 4999:2, 4263:4, 2832:6, 1204:2; A305
Before the little season of Rev. 20:3,7. Q423:3; R5080:2; 4986:1; CR486:1
In the end or closing period of the age, Satan is to be loosed for a little season for the final testing of mankind. R763:6
At that moment the fiftieth thousand year period will begin. R5139:6
Christ's Millennial Kingdom will end, being merely a beginning of Christ's power and rule. The Kingdom bestowed upon The Christ is a spiritual Kingdom and it shall "have no end." (Luke 1:33) R2607:1
When he – Christ. D645; R5965:4, 1511:2
Having "Prepared the way" of Jehovah. (Isa. 40:3) E44
Shall have delivered – Shall give up. R763:1
With the close of the thousand years of the Messianic Kingdom, the great Mediator will deliver over the Kingdom. Those who then fail will be destroyed with Satan in the second death. PD96/110
At the conclusion of the Mediatorial reign, when all unwilling to make progress shall be destroyed in the second death, and all willing and obedient shall have been brought up out of sin and death conditions to perfection. R4631:2
The Father has committed the work of reconciliation of man to the Son, and also the judgment of the race, and will receive it back again under divine jurisdiction, when through the Son as his agent, he shall have made all things new. R2434:6, 764:5
He will have first destroyed the reign of sin and death, granted each member of the human family a full and gracious opportunity of reconciliation with God, and destroyed all willful sinners; then all the remainder he will present before the Father, perfect and unreprovable. R1601:4, 975:4
The rebellious province having been redeemed and conquered by the Prince and Savior, as the Father's representative, establishing his laws and obedience thereto, every enemy to righteousness and truth having been either corrected or destroyed, the Lord Jesus will deliver up the then rectified and peaceful province. R1204:5
Messiah shall deliver the perfect world from his administration of mercy to the Father's administration of justice. OV130:4; R5183:4, 4974:4, 4442:2, 3322:1
When the thousand years are finished, Christ will deliver the Kingdom up to the Father, before the little season of Rev. 20. Q423:3
Having finished his work, Christ will turn it over to the Father, and then all mankind, being perfect, will be under the control of the Father. Q423:3
Mankind will not need justification by faith in order to stand before God, because only those justified by works during the Millennial age will have any standing before the Father. R3456:5; F107
The world will be perfect mentally, physically, morally; all that Adam was, plus the experiences received through the reign of evil and the subsequent reign of righteousness. R4442:2, 4175:5, 3322:1, 975:4
The law which Jesus will enforce during the thousand years will be exactly the same law that God will enforce after the thousand years, but Jesus stands for divine mercy; as the Mediator, he stands between justice and the sinner. Q424:T
Every man will be perfect and able to stand the test of justice, and will be required to do so from the moment the Mediator steps aside and turns over the Kingdom to God. R4631:2; CR486:1; Q425:T
Messiah will not deliver up any portion of the world until the end of his reign of glory and restitution. Consequently, the Ancient Worthies will belong to the "after fruits." R4999:2
The Ancient Worthies will not have life in the fullest sense until the close of the Millennial age. Q12:5
When at the close of the Millennial reign the whole world shall be delivered up, it will no longer be a fearful thing, because having been perfectly restored all will then delight to do God's will perfectly. R764:2; A305
Mankind will deal directly, as at first, with Jehovah--the mediation of the man Christ Jesus having accomplished fully and completely the grand work of reconciliation. A304
Mankind will no longer need a Mediator, but will then be able to stand in his own righteousness as Adam could before he transgressed. R2304:4, 5240:5, 4999:2, 4631:2; Q424
Those of the world, who, after trial during the Millennial age, are found worthy of life, will then be presented to the Father. R388:4
All enmity and the curse will have been destroyed. R587:5
We may assert positively that there will be no probation beyond that time. R726:5
The kingdom to God – The Millennial Kingdom. R1511:2, 1904:6
The restored empire. R763:6
The dominion of earth to the Father. A305; R277:6, 206:5
Control. R453:3
Whose Kingdom it is anyway, since it will be established and perpetuated by his power. D617
A separate Kingdom from that of the remainder of the universe. R2832:6
Nothing by way of making it more perfect will remain to be done in the successive ages. R770:1, 726:2
Perfect in every respect. R1118:5*
Presenting to him the justified and perfectly restored of the human race, who thereafter shall be directly amenable to the Father. R453:6; F108
When Christ has completed his work of restitution, the final test must be applied to prove the worthiness of each individual of the race to continued existence throughout the ages of glory to follow. R1234:1, 4999:2
His special law and special judgment being over. R1068:4
After the Mediatorial Kingdom shall have passed, Satan will be loosed for a little season, to prove all those that dwell upon the face of the whole earth. (Rev. 20:7, 8) R4999:2, 4538:4, 1234:1; Q425:T
The fact that this testing of mankind will be after he shall have delivered the Kingdom to the Father, does not prove that the glorified Jesus will have nothing to do with the destruction of Satan and those obedient to him. R4999:4; Q425:T
Individual relationship with God will not be possible until the end of the thousand years. R5240:5, 2426:6
Not until the end of the age will any of the world, under the New Covenant arrangement, reach sonship. R4729:4
They will be presented to the Father as sons. R1412:4
The world will not be accepted at all, nor have any intercourse with the Father, until the close of their trial at the close of the Millennium. R2426:6; E458
The New Covenant does not become personal between God and mankind until the Mediator steps out of the way. R4903:4
Mankind anew in covenant relationship with God. R4538:1
Man, through rebellion, forfeited his God-given rights--among others, self-government in harmony with Jehovah's laws. God, through Christ, redeems all those rights, and secures the right for man not only to return personally to his former estate, but also return to his former office as king of earth. A304
The Kingdom of God and the laws will always be the same. All mankind, then perfectly restored, will be capable of rendering perfect obedience in letter as well as in spirit. A304
"That God may be all in all." (Verse 28) R5965:4
"The head of Christ is God." (1 Cor. 11:3) R462:6
Even the Father – And Father. R763:1
By whose authority and in whose power the Millennial reign will be inaugurated and brought to a successful issue. NS567:2
By delivering it to mankind as the Father's representatives, who were designed from the first to have this honor. A305; F50
When the Messianic Kingdom has restored mankind to perfection, it is the divine purpose for Messiah to relinquish this subordinate Kingdom, which will merge into and become a part of the great Kingdom of Jehovah. R4974:4, 1204:5
Then mankind will be introduced to and come under the direct control of the great, grand Father of all, Jehovah Almighty. E458
When he – Christ. D645; R1511:2
When our Lord Jesus, as the Father's honored agent, will have completed the beautifying and glorifying of the Lord's "footstool." D649; E47
Put down – Greek, katargeo, destroyed. R2001:5, 418:5, 165:2
Abrogated. R763:4
By love or by force. R1511:2
Put away, not only other oppositions, but the opposition to the workings of death. R4999:5
Destroyed all opposition to God's laws, sin. R165:2; NS680:2
All insubordination. Q218:T, 753:2; NS680:1
Complete subjection. R1592:4
So thorough will be its work, that when this seventh day shall close, no force or governmental power will be necessary to secure obedience to God's will. R763:2
Having terminated this work, our Lord will not be without an occupation. He will relinquish the oversight of the affairs of earth, and will assume again the general position as Associate- administrator of the affairs of the universe. R4974:4, 3683:5, 3470:4; Q425:T; NS84:4
Rule – Conflicting rule. D649
Opposing rule. D645
Misrule. R1204:4
Antagonistic rule. SM54:1
Government. R763:4
Opposed to the divine government. OV47:4
Opposed to Jehovah and his righteous law. E47; D645, D649; A261; R3322:1, 2434:6, 1592:4, 418:5
And power – Opposed to righteousness, truth and love; opposed to God and his perfect law. R1511:3, 1204:4, 62:3
The fact that the world is thus to be tried, shows that God has a standard of character to be attained by all, on any plane of existence. R5080:3, 5575:4
He will completely overcome every opposing power by the exercise of his own almighty power for their complete and final overthrow. R1592:4
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| 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. |
For he must reign – Christ must reign. E40; R526:4, 474:4
Messiah. OV44:2, 340:2
At his second advent. R3564:1; Q741:2
In his Millennial Kingdom. SM116:2; R2607:1, 2063:5; Q218:T; OV44:2; NS713:3
His Millennial reign following his second advent. SM54:1
The second advent lasts much longer than the first advent; it includes the Millennial reign. R263:1, 19:2
A reign of righteousness unto life. R5031:3, 5336:1, 5293:1; Q5:7
Messiah's reign will be that of a monarchy; and it will be very exclusive and aristocratic. Additionally, it will be most autocratic-theocratic; for the will of its subjects will not be consulted in the slightest. OV340:2
The fifth universal empire of earth. (Dan. 2) OV340:5
The world's great judgment day. R1248:1
He must reign as the representative of his Kingdom and the Father's. CR452:4
He must be present until all of this work is accomplished. R361:4
During the reign, Jesus will be given full power and authority to control the world. R5022:6, 278:1; Q69:4
As evil now reigns and rules and opposes good, so then righteousness will reign and rule and oppose all evil. R734:4; CR452:4; OV434:6
When our Lord's Kingdom shall be established it will be a spiritual empire, against which flesh and blood will have no prevailing power. NS238:6
The limited time of that reign is a thousand years (Rev. 20:6-10), at the expiration of wd them, are to be cast into the lake of fire. (Rev. 20:7-15) R1592:5
Satan will be bound and will deceive and blind the nations no more until the thousand years of Christ's reign are finished. HG188:5; NS526:5
Christ's millennial work will not consist simply in drawing men's hearts by love, through a knowledge of the truth; it will be ruling with an iron rod--with unbending justice, as well. (Rev. 2:27) R1057:1; NS133:2
The force that will be employed during the Millennium will not interfere with man's God-like quality of free will. R1057:2
Messiah's Kingdom will address itself promptly to the rectification of every form of righteousness, financial, political, social, religious. Every nation, system, or element contrary to the divine standards of righteousness will be broken to shivers with his "iron rod." HG496:4
The great work of Christ, during the thousand years of his reign, will be accomplished in all who willingly submit to his righteous authority, and all others shall be cut off in the second death. R1248:4; HG496:2
Messiah's glorious rule of a thousand years. R5604:2, 5022:6, 4986:1, 763:6, 568:6; HG514:6
Nothing insignificant will be the outcome of that glorious reign of a thousand years. At its very beginning Satan will be bound. For a thousand years the Sun of Righteousness shall pour forth the light of truth and grace upon our poor, fallen, race. OV341:6; R5780:1, 4729:3, 3175:5, 1592:5, 1248:1
It is apparent to all thinking minds that Christ's reign has not yet begun, for the Scriptures declare that during the reign of the Lord, Satan will be bound, and that in the close of that reign he will be loosed for a little season. Q827:4
At the end of the thousand years of Christ's reign the whole world will be turned over to the Father; the race will then have a trial time, a testing, just as Adam had when he was in Eden. R4986:1, 5073:6, 4999:3
There is no reason for a further trial to be assigned; for the trial during the Millennial age under Christ, as Judge, will be a thorough, fair, individual and final trial. HG294:2
The Kingdom which Jehovah will establish in the hands of Christ during the Millennium will be Jehovah's Kingdom, but it will be under the direct control of Christ, as his vicegerent, in much the same manner as the Southern States were dealt with after the rebellion by the United States government. A303
We see evidence that the time of that reign is drawing near. CR452:2
The Church shall reign and judge with him. R1176:3
The Millennial age, or age of conquest, is the first of the "ages to come." (Eph. 2:7) HG11:6
Till – Messiah's reign will not be dealing with perfect conditions. R4985:3
It will require all of the thousand years of Messiah's reign to subdue all unrighteousness and bring into subjection all evil and error. Q852:2
God is able to undo in one thousand years the work which Satan has accomplished in six thousand years. R764:4; CR279:2
Six thousand years past and one thousand is future, seven thousand years of Jehovah's "rest," will carry us to the time when the Son's Millennial reign shall cease, having accomplished its design. F50
Being associated with the Father, Christ (and we in him) shall always belong to the reigning and ruling power (Rev. 11:15); but in the especial sens R165:3
Put all enemies – Put down all enemies. R579:4
Placed all enemies. R763:5
Of the human race. HG514:6
All sin and all insubordination. F398; OV192:1, 341:5; NS354:4, 680:1; OV192:1, 341:5
Subdued. R1155:4, 1204:4; HG12:1
Christ's Kingdom must rule the earth until all the wicked are destroyed. R5293:1
All opponents, all things in the way of the great restitution which he comes to accomplish. B106; R5992:4; CR452:4
Evil and every form of opposition. R734:4
Whether they be evil conditions, principles, powers or individuals. R1592:4, 764:1
Including physical evils, such as sickness, pain and death; as well as mental imperfections and moral evil, sin; Satan and all who have his spirit of wilful insubordination to God's beneficent laws. HG309:5
Including not only evil forces, but also all persons who wilfully become associates in and parts of those evil things. The enemies will therefore be both animate and inanimate. R1511:3
Until he has liberated all the groaning, travailing and sin-sick creation from the bondage of corruption and death into that freedom from pain, sorrow and dying which is the divine provision. (Rom. 8:21) R1176:4
The awakening will find men morally and intellectually as they were when their existence terminated; hence the raising to perfection will require training, discipline, etc. R763:5
Those things which hinder men from keeping divine law, and thus being in full harmony with the Creator. R4999:5
Those who, when brought to a full knowledge and ability, are willingly and knowingly the opponents of righteousness. R1155:5, 4999:3
People will be more or less in the Adamic death during the thousand years and will rise gradually out of Adamic imperfection and death to the perfection of the human nature. R5031:3, 361:4; Q5:7
That there will be some who after being forced to bow in submission will remain enemies at heart and require finally to be destroyed, is evident. The significance of this expression is not conversion, but destruction. R1057:2
The object of Christ's reign is to bring about the grand results for which he died. The world redeemed by the death shall be saved by his life. (Rom. 5:10) R763:5
Some will maintain an attitude of rebellion, loving sin and hating righteousness. These will be granted a hundred years of trial. (Isa. 65:17-25) Messiah, as judge, wil R4986:1
The goats in Matt. 25:41,46. R1057:2, 1155:4; Q425:T; A305, A144
After perfection is reached there will be no more accidents. R5031:3; Q6:T
The reign will accomplish the wiping away of all tears from all eyes, and there shall be no more sorrow, crying, pain, nor death. (Rev. 21:4) HG514:6; NS567:6
Satan is not one of the enemies whom Jesus will destroy in his role of Mediator; but divine justice will determine his deserts. R4999:6
The great work just at hand is not the work of a twenty-four-hour day, but the great, grand, God-like work of the Millennial day. R1155:4
The time for doing this work, the time for exercising his power as the Mediator and putting all things into subjection, is still future. SM720:1; NS356:3
Under his feet – Jehovah's feet. R3683:5
The God of peace will introduce lasting peace and blessing by crushing Satan and all wilful children under the feet of The Christ, shortly. (Rom. 16:20) R1176:4
In subjection. R1681:5, 764:4
In full subjugation. SM116:2
Humbled in the dust. R1511:3
Trodden under foot--destroyed. R1204:4, 1155:4
Subdued everything that is not in harmony with the divine arrangement. OV44:2
The special reign of Christ over the affairs of earth is for a limited time and for a particular purpose, and it will terminate with the accomplishment of that purpose. A304
The honor of completing man's recovery, the right which he died to secure, is conferred upon Christ; until none exist who do not recognize, honor and obey him. A304
Force will be used instead of preaching; that his rebuke will smite into the hearts of his enemies, and that all shall fall under him. SM54:2
Put down every opposition and evil. SM16:2, 116:2; R4999:2, 1248:1, 361:3
The complete overthrow of sin and every enemy of righteousness. R2049:5, 2032:1
Messiah will not deliver up any portion of the world, even when perfected, until the end of the thousand years of his reign of glory and restitution. R4999:2
His Millennial Kingdom having been arranged for the very purpose of releasing those who shall desire to be in harmony with God; and destroying all who are wilful opponents of God and righteousness. R1511:3
Right doing and right doers only shall continue forever. A121; HG394:2
Not upon thrones of honor. R1176:4
The glorious future of eternal blessedness bursts upon our enraptured vision, beginning at the close of the Millennium with the great jubilee of jubilees--the jubilee of the universe. R716:6*
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| 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. |
Last enemy – The greatest of all enemies. R474:4, 303:3
Death, which is an enemy. Q261:1
God meant no pleasant, agreeable thing when he pronounced death as a curse, a penalty for sin. R1018:1*
We are all dying as a result of sin. CR228:2
It has been an enemy, because all down through the age, people have been suffering under the Adamic death who really, if they had had the opportunity, knowledge, etc., would have liked to serve God. Q261:1
It will take the whole thousand years to bring man out of death. So long as death has any hold on mankind, it is not destroyed. A218:T; R277:6, 206:5; Q218:T
Other evils will be brought into subjection early in the Millennium. R3176:1
The one enemy which shall longest have a footing is Adamic death. It will continue to have a measure of power until near the close of the Millennium. Any imperfection of mind or body is so much of death. R1219:3
Adamic death is classed as an enemy because it has a hold upon some who are already reconciled to God by the death of his Son. R1219:4
The last foe to God, and to righteousness, and to man. Q218:T
Satan and his hosts would be destroyed before death is destroyed, and both would be destroyed during the reign of Jesus. Q827:4
Death is always spoken of in the Bible as an enemy. Q766:3
It is not a friend, it will be destroyed. R625:6
The second death is not an enemy of man; it is the righteous sentence of a righteous God in the interest of his creatures. R4999:6, 1511:4, 1248:1, 1219:4, 764:1; Q261:1
This text can in no sense or degree be used as a proof of the everlasting salvation of all. R1219:5
Shall be destroyed – Greek: katargeo, used in the sense of utter destruction. R2001:5
To be set aside or rendered powerless. R1204:4, 763:5, 95:2
During the one thousand years' reign. R277:6, 206:5
He shall destroy Adamic death during his reign by releasing from its dominion all whose liberty he purchased with his own precious blood. R764:1
No man shall fail of eternal life except by a wilful rejection of the truth, when, or after, he has come to the knowledge of it. R630:5
"He will destroy those who corrupt the earth." (Rev. 11:18) F398
Is death – Adamic death. A222; D645; R5780:1, 4999:5, 4941:1, 3175:6, 1592:5, 763:5, 382:4, 277:6, 206:5; Q261:1, 5:7; CR228:2
THE death, which had reigned over and conquered the race through Adam's sin had now become an enemy, an opponent of God's plan, and hence would surely be destroyed by the reign of Messiah. R1511:3
Which will be destroyed when men, by obeying the voice of the great Teacher, Priest and King, have been gradually raised by restitution processes up out of death until they shall reach life in its full, perfect degree. R1204:4, 3176:1
When sin is completely eradicated; when sickness and pain are no more; when all sorrow and sighing and tears are forever banished; then, and not until then, will death be destroyed. R763:5
Sin and death go hand in hand, and neither shall be destroyed until the end of the thousand years. R10:3*
Adamic death in all its forms; sickness, and pain, as well as the tomb. R277:6, 206:5
Death as the final sentence is clearly shown in Matt. 25:31-46 where Jesus, with the C R4986:2, 1155:4; A305, A144; F50
Sheol [Hebrew], hades [Greek], and the grave will be no more. OV177:1; R4892:5
Disguise the facts as we may, death is an enemy. OV214:6
Death had not always been an enemy or an opposer of God's plan: once it was his servant, executing upon fallen man the penalty pronounced by God. R1511:3
The condition of death is the antithesis of life, it can only be defined in negatives or in figurative expressions. R822:5*
Not the second death. R4999:6, 1592:5, 1219:6
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| 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. |
For he – Jehovah. R1778:1, 1511:3, 1269:3, 1204:5
The Father. E40, E79; R1511:3, 165:4
The "Ancient of Days." (Dan. 7:22) A261
The Millennial victory of Christ shall be by and through the Father's power. R3079:5; OV308:1
Hath – Promised to. R1204:5
Put all things – Subjected. R1511:3, 1269:3
Signifying the whole intelligent creation, human and spiritual. R1778:4
Including the Church. A82
Not absolutely all men and all angels; only all who submit themselves to Christ willingly, and in harmony with the New Covenant. R1778:4
This statement is obviously not literal, but symbolic of the subjection of all authority and power to Christ. R1778:1
It does not mean that our Lord Jesus stands with his feet upon all things--earth, sea, angels and men. R1269:3
Under his feet – Under Christ's feet. E40; R3470:5, 1778:1, 1511:3, 1269:3, 1204:5, 165:4
Under his control, power, or authority. R1269:3, 827:1
The dominion of earth is to be placed in the hands of Christ by Jehovah. A261
To make him Lord of all. R1204:5
But – Yet. R1204:5
When he saith – When the Father saith. E40
Jehovah. R1204:5, 1778:1
Are put under him – Are put under Christ. R1269:3
The Son. E40
Under subjection to Christ. R3687:5, 1269:3
Are to be subject to him. R1204:5
It is manifest – To that Christian common sense instructed of God in the principles and purposes of his plan. R1778:1
Is left for inference to the intelligent mind, and not stated. R1269:3, 2985:2
That Jehovah did not mean by that promise of the high exaltation of Christ that he would exalt him and his authority superior to himself and his own authority. R1204:6
That he – That Jehovah. R2985:2, 1879:4, 1269:3, 1204:5
The Father. E79, E40; R3687:5
As God over all. R1778:1
Is excepted – From every comparison. E392, E394, E444
Jehovah alone is the superior to our Lord Jesus. R1511:4
In no sense of the word will Jesus take the place, the honor, the glory of the Father. OV308:1
The power all resided in the Father--everything is of him, from him, through the Son, by the Son as his honored instrument and representative. R3475:1, 3161:2
Which did – Which by his plan and power, by promise gave to Christ this high station. R1204:5
For the thousand years. D645
Under him – Under Jesus. R2985:5
Christ. R1269:3
The Son. E40
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| 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. |
And – Hence. R1204:6
When all things – After all things. R1204:6
All earthly things. E40
All the conditions and circumstances of the present and past, which, under God's overruling providence, are made to work together for the final accomplishment of the divine purpose. R1778:4
When Christ shall have conquered sin and Satan. R5210:1
When all are brought into harmony and perfection--at the end of the age. R249:3
When the Son of God's work is finished of restoring all things and bringing order and harmony out of confusion. R196:4
When all the willing shall have been made perfect, and all the wilfully wicked shall have been destroyed. CR479:5
The reign of evil. R1904:6
Paul refers to Psalm 8:6. HG671:5
Subdued – Subjugated. SM54:1; R2747:6, 1204:6
Subjected. D645
All evil and death shall be conquered. R2690:3
Some by conversion, some by destruction. R2740:1
At the close of the Millennial age. R4729:4, 5210:1, 3470:4; CR479:5
The entire authority, with the world in complete subjection to the divine law and fully restored to the divine likeness and all wilful transgressors cut off, will be surrendered to the Father's hands, and in accordance with his pre-arrangement will be redelivered to mankind. R3470:4
After the thousand years' reign Satan shall be loosed and the trial of Rev. 20 shall ensue; but the reign of Christ and the Church will evidently continue long enough after the thousand years to destroy all found unworthy in that final test, and to thus complete the work for which this reign is instituted. R2740:1
Only the wilful sinners against light and opportunity will be utterly destroyed in the second death. R2690:4
Unto him – The Father. D645
Christ. R1204:6
Under the Son. E40
Then – When Christ shall accomplish the object of his reign. A308
Our Lord (his Church associated with him) will abdicate the throne of earth. R3470:4; OV192:3, 341:7
Then the New Covenant will be at an end; and there will be no further use for it. The special work of Christ as Mediator of the New Covenant will be at an end, for the same reasons. R1179:3
The Son – The Christ. R3683:5
Christ. R1204:6
Be subject unto him – Jehovah, the Father. E40, E79; D645; R2740:1, 1204:6, 331:6, 165:4
The great emperor of the Universe. R1262:4
God has given us a glimpse of the infinite future in Eph. 2:7. CR479:5
At the end of the Millennium our Lord Jesus will no longer hold office as Mediator between God and men, as he will have done for the thousand years. R5023:1, 3470:4, 1179:3, 387:4; Q69:6
Because there will be nothing more to be accomplished. R5023:1; Q69:6
Ultimately Messiah will transfer the allegiance of the whole world (perfected by him) to Jehovah God. NS848:5
The great honor of God upon The Christ will be an everlasting honor; but the details of the Father's purposes are still held as an unrevealed mystery. SM16:2
This Scripture cannot be reconciled with the doctrine of the trinity. R1236:3*, 802:6*
That put – Which did subject. D645
By promise as well as by delegated authority and power. R1204:6
All things under him – The Son. E40, E79
Under Christ. R1204:6
For the thousand years. D645
That gave him the power. R331:6
That – So that. R1204:6
God – The Father. E40; R3687:5, 3683:5
The God, Jehovah. R1204:6
May be all in all – Of the universe. R3861:6, 3683:5, 3470:4
The supreme over all. R1204:6
Or above all. R165:4
Be recognized as The Great I Am in whom the all in all of majesty and power will inhere. R1511:4
The recognized Head over all--the All over all. R1204:5, 1076:4*, 766:4*, 763:2, 269:5
"My Father is greater than I.""My Father is greater than all." (John 14:28; 10:29) R715:4*, 369:6
May be universally recognized thus. R3161:3, 1204:6; CR276:5
To all eternity there will be no opposition to his will; God will have full control. R5210:1, 3683:5
Whose will then will be "in all," and done in earth as in heaven. R269:6, 277:6, 206:5
The restored world will, after the restitution process is finished, recognize Jehovah as the great original fountain of life and blessing, the author of the great plan of salvation--the Grand Father and Over-Lord of all. E142
When God's plan shall be brought fully into execution, loving authority and joyful submission will fill the universe with blessed peace and everlasting joy. R766:4*
The government will never cease, because the government which Christ establishes is the divine one. R3470:4
Comparisons which show dignity and honor pertaining to Christ, Head and Body, are never understood to be comparisons with Jehovah, who is beyond all comparison. R2747:6
God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself in the same sense in which he will be "all in all" when the Son shall have delivered up the Kingdom to the Father. Q781:T
It is not logical to say that there is a devil, an opponent of God, and at the same time to maintain that God is all in all, and omnipresent. R5210:1
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| 29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? |
Else – This has been considered a very obscure passage, because the real meaning of immersion, as symbolic of death, has been generally lost sight of. R1545:2
A misapprehension of the Apostle's meaning of this verse led, during the "Dark Ages," to substitutionary baptism. F455; R1545:2; HG733:3
Paul's topic was the resurrection of the dead, and he is here sustaining and elaborating that doctrine. F456; HG733:6
Which are baptized – Which are baptizing. (Sinaitic manuscript reading) R1545:2
They had all been baptized, and their baptism signified or symbolized death. F456; R1545:4; HG733:6
Each one of those who had been immersed, had symbolized his own death--had cast his lot among those dead with Christ, to share his sacrificial death. R1545:4; F456; HG734:1
A recognition of the death with Christ to self-will, to the world, and all worldly interests, and also of the water immersion as its symbol. R1545:5
Our immersion into death. R1986:6
For the dead – On behalf thereof. (Sinaitic manuscript reading) R1545:2
On behalf of the dead and dying world. R1545:4, 1986:6; F456; HG734:1
Jesus was thus baptized for the dead. PT388:4*[PT388:4*]
Not those who are in the tomb, but those who are nominally alive, though under sentence to death because of sin, "dead in trespasses and sins," dead in God's sight, condemned in Adam. R1986:6
Why are they then – Why then were you baptized for the dead, if you hope for nothing beyond? R1545:4
Why should we consecrate our lives unto death? F456; HG734:4
Paul is combating and disproving the theories of some who were teaching that there would be no resurrection. R1545:4
We would not need to sacrifice anything were it not for the dead and dying condition of the world. R1986:6
Baptized for the dead – To bring the dying world to Christ or to serve them after they are brought to him, and to shine as lights in the world, reproving sin. R1987:1
While our sacrifice is no part of the ransom price, it is a filling up of "that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ for his body's sake." (Col. 1:24) R1987:1
Some have been led to the absurd conclusion that early Christians were immersed in the interest of their dead unbelieving friends and relatives. R1545:2
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| 30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? |
Stand we in jeopardy – It is as new creatures in Christ we stand in jeopardy. PT388:5*[PT388:5]
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| 31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. |
I die daily – St. Paul was speaking of his own case, but this statement applies to all who are laying down their lives in the Lord's service. R5173:5; Q760:2
Our baptism into Christ's death began at the time we made a full consecration of our life with no reservation. It will continue day by day until our sacrifices are wholly consumed upon the Lord's altar. HG264:4
By taking up the cross and following after the Lord and Head. OV317:2
There is continual mortifying of the old will until the time of actual death. R5103:4, 4615:1, 3282:5; Q760:2
It may be ostracism by the world; the expenditure of physical strength; or a stab from some one who has hurt us with his tongue. R5173:6,5
We renounce the earthly that we may share in the heavenly. During the change we are dying daily and becoming more alive daily. R5090:2
The new creature never dies, unless it forfeits its rights to life and goes into second death. R5103:4
The body of flesh which had belonged to the old creature, reckoned dead since consecration, is not really dead. R5103:4
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| 32 If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. |
If – Seemingly referring to the persecution in Acts 19:21-34 when it was probably thcle" in the Coliseum--to have the Apostle cast into the area to be devoured by the wild beasts. R2207:5
With wild beasts – If Paul did not have a combat intended for him, it came near being such a conflict that it amounted to practically the same thing; or it is barely possible that Paul referred to the Ephesian mob itself, as "beasts" taking his life. R2207:5
Let us eat and drink – Wiser and better far it would be that we should make the most of the present life, enjoying all its pleasures instead of consecrating ourselves to death in baptism, and then living a life of self-sacrifice, which is a daily dying. R1545:4
For to morrow we die – And die and have no thought for the future at all. CR242:4
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| 33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.
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Evil communications – A pure heart loves cleanliness of person, of clothing, of language and of habits. R5123:3
The ear becomes accustomed to profanity, unkind and bitter words; and the eye to sights of misery and injustice. R2146:2
It is all in vain that some testify of their love to God while they keep company with his opponents. R1588:6
Broadly applicable words. It is better never to mingle with others than run the least risk of having the heart polluted. R2577:4
Corrupt good manners – The tendency is to blunt the finer sensibilities of the pure and good, so that in time the heart will become more or less calloused and unsympathetic unless the unholy influences are resisted. R2146:2
A pure heart loves righteousness and hates iniquity; delights in the society of the pure and shuns all others. R5123:3
The spirit of pride which had manifested itself among the apostles had been inspired to some extent by their treasurer, Judas--as evil communications always are corrupting. R2449:6
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| 34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. |
Awake – This exhortation is not addressed to the world of sinners, but to Christians. SM349:1
This appeal is especially appropriate today, and it should be the effort of all of us to lift up the proper standard of righteousness not only in our teachings but in all the acts and affairs of life. NS445:6
Whoever hopes to be a king, priest and judge, should now attain the qualifications of heart and mind which will make him competent for the work. SM349:3, 354:2, 355:1
We all know how to will right, but how to do right is the problem. SM350:2
Whoever is violating the principle of justice in his home, in the church, in business, or social relations should examine the matter earnestly and prayerfully. SM354:1
If all might get the thought of the Golden Rule firmly fixed in the mind, if each one could awake to righteousness, to justice, the whole world would be revolutionized. SM353:T
To righteousness – Awake to a proper appreciation of justice. SM349:1, 351:3
Justice is righteousness. SM352:T
Some Christians see the doctrine of love, and forget that there is a lesson which precedes it. SM351:3
In vain does any one practise love to his fellow creatures or God while he is violating the principle of justice. Justice first, love afterwards, should be the rule governing all of our dealings with others. SM354:1
To do justice to your neighbor as you wish that neighbor to do justice to you is the essence of the Law of God given to the Jews for their treatment of others. (Matt. 7:12) SM352:1
Justice is the foundation of all character, of all right living. It is the foundation of the throne of God. (Psa. 89:14) SM354:1, 355:3
Upon this sure foundation we shall build a superstructure of love. SM355:3
The very least that we must do is to give justice to one another; and to do so will mean a great blessing to our own characters. SM354:T
We should not be unjust even to an animal. We should give every creature the rights which belong to it. SM354:2
Paul did not always succeed in carrying out God's will for righteousness. "To will is present with me, but how to perform I find not." (Rom. 7:18) SM350:2
Sin not – Do not sin against justice in your lives. SM349:2
To do violence to justice is sin. SM354:1, 352:T, 349:1
Some have not – Paul reproves some of the members of the Church, the Body of Christ. NS506:2
We who are in the School of Christ recognize that the Lord is teaching us and is preparing us for a great work in the future. SM349:3, 351:2
The knowledge – A knowledge respecting justice, the principles of righteousness. SM349:2
The glorious instructions of our Lord Jesus, the apostles, the Law and the prophets. SM349:4
God expects every member of his family to have a perfect will, so we seek diligently to prove "what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God." (Rom. 12:2) SM350:3
The knowledge of God's will is obtained through the study of the Bible. (2 Tim. 2:15) SM351:T
I speak this – And this is. SM349:2
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| 35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? |
But – Having proved the fact of a general resurrection, and having shown the two orders, the Apostle comes to particulars respecting the two classes in answer to a supposed question. R1511:4
Paul held an imaginary discussion with doubters of the resurrection in his day. SM40:2
He pauses to answer some questions. R95:2
Some man will say – Some will unthinkingly ask. R1259:3
Dead raised up – Our Lord's resurrection is God's guarantee of a resurrection of all our race, for which Christ died. R1511:1, 5579:2
During the Millennial age, while being raised up out of death to perfection of life, mankind will still be "dead" although, like the Church of the present time, they will be reckoned to have passed from death to life, from the moment they accept the New Covenant. R1854:2
With what body – With what kind of body. R666:4
God's proposition is the restoration of the soul, the personality. R5612:2
Some dead souls, in the resurrection, will come forth with spirit bodies, and others with human bodies. The important part is, that it is the soul, the being, that comes forth--not the body. R5017:2, 1854:3
While the bodies with which mankind will be awakened will be physical bodies of flesh and blood and bones, they will not be the same bodies. R1854:3; HG137:5
Their awakening will be in bodies such as men have at present--imperfect bodies--mentally and morally; but we should suppose that a reasonable amount of physical restitution would be granted at once. R1854:3
They will come forth in practically the same condition in which they died. SM40:2
A being is made up of two elements--body and spirit of life; hence, if restored to being, they must have some sort of bodies provided for them. R277:2, 205:5
If resurrected (lifted up to perfection) at the moment of awakening, men would not know themselves or each other, so great would be the changes mentally, morally and physically. R1854:4
The statement "I believe in the resurrection of the body," made by various church-creeds, but not by the Bible, misleads so many. R1853:1; CR170:4; Q745:2
Do they come – Will the dead return. SM40:2
Come forth in the resurrection. R666:4
These beings come into being again. R277:2, 205:5
Where are their bodies? R1259:3
Paul goes on to show that the dead in Christ are raised a spiritual body. HG12:5
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| 36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: |
Thou fool – O foolish person. HG137:5
O senseless man! Q820:T; R340:6*
O thoughtless person, to suppose that the decay of the body to dust could hinder the fulfillment of God's promise! Do you not see that in nature God teaches this very lesson? R1259:3; HG137:5
Quickened – Made alive. Q820:T; R340:6*
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| 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: |
And that – The Apostle uses an illustration from nature to teach the Church, not regarding those living, but those dead. He is answering the question of verse 35. R666:4, 360:6, 95:2
The dying and living of the grain best illustrated THE FACT of the dead coming forth to life. R666:4
Which thou sowest – In death. E344; R5108:5, 1880:5; HG331:4
Not – The grain you plant never comes up again; it dies and wastes away. R95:2; HG137:5
Body that shall be – In the resurrection of the soul or being. E349
The bodies in which the world will be awakened will be practically the same as those which died, though not the same atoms of matter. R4794:4, 1857:4, 360:6; E349; PD53/65; HG331:4
As with the development of grain, so with mankind, the body sown is not the identical thing which springs up, though the same nature, and the same identical personality. R360:6
The restoration of the bodies of the billions who have died would be a very absurd proposition. The human frame changes every seven years; so that a man who has reached the age of forty-nine years has had seven bodies. R5612:1, 5578:6, 5017:3, 4994:2, 3174:1, 1853:1
The resurrection body is not the body buried. R2082:2; HG137:5
There will be different kinds of resurrection bodies--just as with the different sorts of grain. R1259:3
Bare grain – It is with man in death and resurrection as with the planting of grain and its reappearance. R1511:4
Though the seed planted does not come up, another seed of the same sort comes forth--a new grain of the same nature as planted. R1259:3; HG137:5
Whatever kind of seed is planted in death, of the same kind and nature will be the resurrection crop. SM40:2
It is not the old grain but the germ or vitality from it which comes forth in a new grain. R666:6
The Book of Mormon teaches that the very body which goes down into the grave will be the body that will be resurrected. (2 Nephi 9:12) HG731:5
Some other grain – If you plant corn you do not expect to see the same grain of corn come up; but you will expect to find other grains of the same kind. HG137:5; R95:2
If you plant barley, you will reap barley. If an animal body is sown in death, the animal body will be raised. The Church is an exception to the rule. We have animal bodies merely loaned to us, in which to operate. We are new creatures, not human beings. R5108:5, 3063:5, 1511:5, 1259:4, 667:6, 360:6
If rye represented the human stock, and by a special treatment of the grain before sowing, changed it into wheat, then those changed grains would sprout and develop not as rye but as wheat. Thus the Apostle illustrates the resurrection of the Church. SM40:3
The children of Adam will have human bodies; those who experience a change of nature through Christ will have spirit bodies, in the resurrection. R1857:4, 3063:5
Those who experience a change of nature, from human to divine, now, through Christ, will not have human bodies when perfected, but spirit bodies; now begotten and quickened, shall be born in the resurrection. R1957:4
The resurrection, both natural and spiritual, finds an illustration in the processes of vegetation. R3250:2, 666:4
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| 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. |
But God – In the resurrection. E349; R5017:5, 4668:4, 2123:6, 1880:5, 1259:4; Q588:T
At the time of awakening. R4499:6
Not after the resurrection. R2797:2
Giveth it – Each person, each soul or sentient being. R1880:5; CR170:4; E377, E349; 331:4
The soul or being that is to be restored. E344; R5166:3, 5017:5, 4994:2, 4499:6, 3063:1, 880:5; Q745:2; 331:2
What the individual is interested in is the resurrection of his soul--his being--his personality. R5166:3
The germ of life through which man shall be restored to being (whether earthly or heavenly nature) is "hid with Christ in God." (Col. 3:3). R666:6
God will have no difficulty in making a body; divine power is equal to any emergency. The Sadducees doubted the power of God. R5612:2
The Scriptures never speak of the resurrection of our bodies. R5017:5, 2082:2; PD53/65
If "it" means the body, how does this verse apply? HG227:6
A body – A new body. E349, E343; R2187:3, 1880:5; HG333:1
Not the body that died, with wounds and imperfections. R2479:4; PD53/65
It will not be the same body, composed of the same solids and liquids as the one which was buried, but it will be the same being who died that will be resurrected. R1259:3
There is not one statement in the Bible that declares that the same body that dies is to be brought forth in the resurrection. R5612:2, 2082:2
As it hath pleased him – As he pleases. R1880:5
As his infinite wisdom has been pleased to provide. HG331:4
To every seed – To every kind of seed. E349
There are as many harvests as there are kinds of seed. R576:2
The world at large have been sown with the natural seed--human nature--and will be raised with natural bodies; while the new--divine-nature, becomes a new seed, and requires a new body. R340:6*, 277:3, 205:6, 95:2
What body you will have depends upon what seed you are of when buried. R95:2
His own body – His own appropriate kind of body. E349
His own body; the raised up one will be of the same nature as when he died. F706; R2602:4
To the Church, spirit bodies; to the world, human bodies, but not the ones lost in death. E344, E349; R1259:4, 360:6, 277:3, 205:6; CR170:4; HG331:4
All who are of the spiritual seed will get a spiritual body, just as surely as the natural seed will have its own body. R95:3
Provide to each kind of seed his own appropriate body. R1259:4, 666:4
We presume that children will arise children and develop. R201:4
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| 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. |
Not the same flesh – In verses 39-41 the Apostle introduces a description of the first or chief resurrection. R1511:5
Though you have never seen a spiritual body, yet you can see this to be reasonable, and in harmony with God's dealings generally as you see them every day--even of fleshly bodies, there are different sorts and grades--yet all flesh. R95:4
There is a difference in natures; one flesh of man, beasts, fishes, and birds. R5622:4, 5025:4; Q502:5; OV353:5
Various grades of earthly beings. R1511:6
Varieties of earthly nature. R666:4
However different the organism, they are all earthy. R5025:4; OV353:5
There will be on the earthly plane perfect fishes, birds, and beasts. R828:1
Kind – Order. R828:1, 404:2*, 222:1*
Men – Man is the lord or chief. R1511:6, 828:1, 470:3
The whole world of mankind are of one kind of seed--human stock. SM40:2
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| 40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. |
There are – The varieties and differences of fish, fowl, etc., and of sun, moon and stars illustrate the differences which should be expected in the resurrection. R666:4
Two general sorts or kinds of bodies. R277:2, 206:5; HG138:1
Two classes of beings. HG137:6
Both will be glorious. R277:5, 95:4
Celestial bodies – In the spirit realm there are various degrees or grades of being--the angelic being one, and the divine nature chief of all. R1511:6, 458:1
A variety of organisms, but all are spirit. OV354:3; R5025:4
We know that the spiritual is not composed of flesh, blood and bones. R578:3, 261:3, 219:2, 18:1
The Bride of Christ will be like him and will come forth spirit beings. R666:4
God is the chief; cherubim, seraphim, and the still lower order of angels are all spirit beings; Jesus was resurrected to the spirit plane. R5025:4; Q502:6; OV353:5
The angels are in God's image or likeness; the cherubim and seraphim as well, although on a higher scale than man. Q502:6
Bodies terrestrial – Earthly. A182; R5025:4, 277:2, 219:2
The mass of mankind will come forth human beings. R666:4
Various orders of creatures adapted to the earthly home, of which man is the chief, lord, ruler, king. R470:3, 1511:5, 666:4; Q502:6
The glory – Unseen as yet, except as revealed to the eye of faith by the Spirit through the Word. A181
The heavenly glory is represented in our Lord since his resurrection, the express image of the Father's person, and all the faithful of this Gospel age shall be made like him. R2242:6
It is the highest kind of glory to which the Son of Man has been raised--that glory which is peculiar to the divine nature. R1283:3; Q502:6
There will be one glory common to all the celestial beings. F725
Of the celestial – Heavenly. R2242:5, 470:6, 458:1, 277:2; A182
Spiritual. R277:5, 219:2
Is one – Is one thing. R219:2, 95:4
The glory – The earthly glory was represented in the first man, Adam, and such as attain to it will attain a condition of glory similar to that which he enjoyed before he sinned. R2242:5, 95:4
The glory of the earthly was lost by the first Adam's sin, and is to be restored to the race by Jesus and his Bride during the Millennial reign. R261:3
A glory common to the human. F725
Of the terrestrial – Earthly. R2242:5, 470:6, 458:1
Earthly nature. HG137:6
Human. R277:5
Is another – Is quite another thing. R95:4
Man, the highest of the earthly creatures, is lower than the lowest of the spiritual beings. The perfect human being is God manifest in the flesh. Q502:6
There is a glory peculiar to each kind of existence, whether animate or inanimate, from the very lowest to the very highest. R1283:3
There is one glory of the mineral, and another glory of the vegetable, and another glory of the animal. There is one glory of man, and another glory of angels, and another glory of the Generator and Regenerator of man. R1283:3
There will be grades or degrees of glory on each plane. R666:5, 458:1
There will be glory to both classes, though differing as the glory and beauty of fish, fowl, etc., differ from the glory of the sun and stars in kind. R666:4
Not all the same degrees, but all will have the same kind of glory. F725
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| 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. |
There is – In verses 41-44 the picture of the resurrection of the elect shows us how radical will be the change from our present condition as his body of humiliation to our glorious condition as his body celestial. NS178:3
Another glory – The glories yet diversities of the spirit world are well illustrated by those of the sun, moon and stars. R1511:6
There is variety in the heavens. R666:4
Sun – The glory of a star is beautiful, yet different and less than the glory of the sun. R95:4
The Scriptures tell us that the Church as a whole shall "shine forth as the sun." (Matt. 13:43) This description by our Lf the "wheat" class. F725
When our change takes place we shall shine forth as the sun in the Kingdom of our Father. R95:4
Moon – Beautiful, but less majestic than the sun. R666:5
One star differeth – The rewards will not all be alike as respects glory, and honor, though all will be glorious and honorable. F419; R5747:5; Q500:3; CR179:4
All the faithful will be glorified, honored, blessed, perfected; not, however, blessed in the same degree. R5951:3
Some will blaze with a more resplendent brilliancy because of their great zeal. R5039:5
The more loyal we are, the more faithful we are, the fewer slips we shall make, the more like our Redeemer we shall be, and the brighter will be our reward. R5226:5
Those who joyfully endure for the Lord's and truth's sake, the greatest shame, ignominy, trials, persecutions, and thus have experiences most like the Master will, in proportion to their faithfulness, have a future great reward. R2762:4
Some of those who come forth spiritual will, though glorious and perfect, be less grand than others. R666:5
When we see noble examples, like that of our Lord and the Apostle Paul, we rejoice, and realize that their reward will be proportionate to their sacrifice; so it will be proportionately with all the Royal Priesthood. R2762:3; NS337:6
Corroborated by the parables of the talents, and the pounds. SM512:1; F725, F419
The same lesson is given in Dan. 12:1-3 where the resurrection ise stars, whose beauty and brilliancy vary. R5951:5, 3965:3, 2067:4
"Thy seed shall be as the stars of heaven." (Gen. 22:17) The stars of heaven fitly R5178:5, 2067:1
Many will be of the Great Company; some will be of the Little Flock. R5747:5, 2067:4
From another star – One having authority over "ten cities," another over "five cities." F725
In glory – In the promised future glory there will be different degrees of brilliancy. R2239:5; F725; SM512:1
In position, magnitude and orbit. R828:1, 458:1; F725
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| 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: |
So also – So Paul reasons that as we can conceive of harmony and perfection, with variety, in the earth; perfect horses, dogs, cattle and men, so we can likewise conceive of similar variety in perfection amongst spirit beings. R1511:6
Having established the general principle of a resurrection, and its applicability to all mankind, the Apostle proceeds to discuss particularly the first resurrection, in which the Church is specially interested. R3174:6, 3063:5, 666:5; HG452:6
Verses 42-52 wonderfully describe the change of nature of the Church. Q838:4; HG138:2
Verses 42-53 refer exclusively to the first resurrection--the Church's. R2339:4
Describing the differences between present conditions and those of the future. E726
The resurrection of the "new creature" in a spirit body, glorious, powerful, immortal. R2422:2, 1952:5, 308:3
The Bride will get perfection of life instantly, being made without further process or trial, incorruptible, glorious, honorable, powerful spirit beings. R1855:2
Our "change" is our full deliverance from flesh conditions and frailties into the perfections of our new being. R172:3
Is the resurrection – The first, chief, best, superior resurrection. F720; R3965:3, 3174:1, 2980:4, 2618:5, 2339:5, 2194:5, 2067:4, 1542:5, 1260:1, 1259:5, 666:5, 361:1; SM512:1; HG138:1; 334:1; 358:5; NS101:4, 178:2, 235:3, 534:4, 786:2
The Greek text guards against the supposition that the resurrection described could be other than that of the Church, by using emphasis which expressed in English, would make this verse read "Thus also is THE resurrection of THE dead." R2339:5, 2477:3, 1881:4, 1854:6, 1542:5, 1512:2, 1511:6, 1259:5, 666:5, 361:1, 95:4; CR41:1; HG138:1
The Apostle fully reaches his topic; as though he would say, Thus will be the special or first resurrection, of the special class of the dead. R1511:6
Greek, anastasis, perfecting. R361:2
The grandeurs and perfections of being which shall be ours when we shall have experienced this great change. R3174:6
Born from the dead to glory, honor and immortality. R3485:6; HG358:5; NS195:6
Jesus' resurrection was to the divine or immortal nature, a spiritual body. And so many of us as shall be immersed into Jesus Christ, immersed into his death, shall also obtain a share in "his resurrection." R1542:5, 361:2; NS655:3
The papal counterfeit of Christ's Millennial Kingdom could not resurrect the dead to glory, power and immortality, as the Scriptures predict. R1135:3
Of the dead – The special, elect dead. HG333:6; F720; R2067:4, 1881:4, 1854:6
The Church. R4175:4, 3564:2, 1105:6; CR278:6; SM465:2; NS326:5, 637:2, 567:1
The overcomers of the Church. NS19:3
THE dead; changed from human nature to divine nature, the heirs of Galatians 3:29. R5178:5, 3564:2
The chief class, the sacrificing overcomers. R1259:5
Describing the differences between present conditions and those of the future. F723
It – The new creature whose existence began at the time of consecration and begetting of the Spirit. F726
The new mind. R3063:5
The Church. HG231:3
"It" is the soul that is restored or resuscitated. What was it that died? The Scripture reply is "The soul that sinneth, it shall die." (Ezek. 18:4, 20) Q817:4
The being--the individuality. R666:5
Sown – In death. R666:5
In corruption – In a fleshly, animal body. R5060:6, 2980:4; Q594:1
Imperfect, blemished, marked and marred by sin. R3729:6
Our flesh is subject to decay. R3175:2
The embryo spirit being develops in this mortal body until the moment of resurrection. R5329:6, 5158:4, 4793:4, 4177:4
These imperfect bodies show what the intents of our minds are; if faithful, God will give us the bodies promised. CR470:5
It is raised – It is the being which God will raise up in a new appropriate body, even as in the grain. (verse 37) R666:6
The living, intelligent, sentient being is to be raised up by divine power. A phonograph with recording cylinder, furnishes an excellent illustration of the resurrection. Q817:4
In incorruption – In immortality. E396; R2747:5
Greek, aptharsia, that which cannot decay, a death-proof state. E397; R3175:2, 2339:4, 204:1
All the marks and blemishes of sin which belong to the earthen vessel will be destroyed, "blotted out." R2194:5, 1856:4
Divine power will impress the spirit body with the knowledge of all the blessed experiences of the present time, so that these shall be profitable to us, making us better qualified for the divine service. R5158:4
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| 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: |
It is sown – In death. B133; R5830:4, 3027:6; NS655:5
Buried in the flesh. R4177:5
The being or soul of the Church. R3564:2, 3027:5
The new creature. F727
Verses 43 & 44 give a description of the resurrection which God has promised to all the members of the Church. R5017:5, 4994:5, 4854:3, 4668:4, 4177:4; Q587:6, 658:3
When buried in death, the Church is actually imperfect, dishonorable and weak. These conditions now covered are to be completely blotted out with the passing of the present life. R2194:5
Our Lord's change was but a sample of that which is to come to all of his true followers. R4123:6, 1692:1; SM655:3
In dishonor – In disesteem. Our body is at present a body of humiliation. F728
Ignominy. R3175:3
With lines of care and sorrow, etc. B133
In death our Lord was considered a companion to thieves. R5830:4
With the wicked and the rich. R4177:5
Raised in glory – Honored. R1692:1
In the "first resurrection." R4991:3, 4981:5, 2156:5; CR131:4; NS768:6
At the second coming of Christ, the resurrection of the Church will be the first item in order. R5132:2; OV190:1
"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, and every tongue confess, to the glory of God the Father." (Phil. 2:10, 11) R2819:2
The description of the resurrection change of the Church fits equally well to the Lord. R5830:4, 4177:4; CR453:6
Our experiences in the resurrection must be similar to those of our Lord. In his case, there was a sowing in dishonor and raising in glory. R5222:2
Our Lord was raised from the dead to the glory of the Father--not to being a part of the Father, but to share in the Father's glory--glory, honor, immortality was the high reward. Q115:1
Jesus received his glorious body in the resurrection, but it remained for him to be glorified (honored) after he would appear in the presence of the Father. R2819:3
His glorification began in his resurrection from the dead, when he was raised in incorruption, in power, a glorious spiritual body. This glorification was enhanced when he was received up into glory. R2758:2
Is sown in weakness – In imperfection. F728; R3174:6
As human beings. OV356:3
With marks and wounds, etc. B133
Their mortal bodies, now merely the instruments of the new creature, will be laid down forever in death. R5711:1; F728
Not until the resurrection are we given new perfect bodies. R5126:6
It – The being. B133
The new creature, the soul. Q490:5; E728; R5304:5, 4998:5, 4177:5, 3027:5
Is raised in power – Powerful. R1692:1, 152:2
The power of perfection, the power of the new nature, the power of God. F728; R4793:4
In the power of glory, honor and immortality--a spiritual body; giving us a faint glimpse of the perfected spiritual Church's power. R308:3
Without spot or blemish; all sin will have been blotted out. R4308:4; CR186:6
If in the present time of weakness and imperfection we manifest to the Lord the loyalty of our hearts. R5126:6
The hope of all of God's people is that the begetting of the holy Spirit in the present time will be followed by the resurrection birth. R5035:1
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| 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. |
It – The Church. R5126:6, 5026:1, 3904:4; Q582:9
The soul or being. Q745:2, 820:T; R667:5; HG227:6
The dead in Christ. HG12:4
The new creature. F728
The new creature is perfected by being given a new body. Thus seen, all of the Lord's people, as was their Lord, are dual beings. R4177:5, 667:5
Sown a natural body – A human body. T58; R4793:4, 3175:3, 1259:5, 637:6
Earthly body. R4635:6
Literally, an animal body. B133; E396; R5903:4, 5839:1, 5830:4, 5711:1, 5690:2, 5416:1, 5222:2, 5132:2, 5060:5, 5017:5, 4994:5, 4991:3, 4869:3, 4177:4, 3564:2, 2797:2, 2318:2, 2194:6, 1881:4, 1854:6, 666:5, 514:2; CR80:6; Q53:4, 594:1; SM41:T; HG12:4; 217:2; NS178:4, 235:3, 567:2, 803:3
An imperfect body. R5126:6
With Adamic weaknesses and fleshly imperfections. SM190:2
Needing the imputation of Jesus' merit. R4998:5; Q490:5
The old body is not strong enough to keep God's law; even with the assistance of the new creature. R4869:3
God is not expecting perfection in the flesh, but he is expecting perfect heart intentions. We are showing him, by doing the best of our ability under present conditions, what we will do with a perfect body. R5304:5
The animal body is to be quickened by the Spirit of God, and by degrees the resurrection process in which the new creature is engaged becomes stronger and stronger. If this continues, we shall have a glorious change to the spirit plane. R5060:6; Q594:1
Not until the resurrection shall we receive new bodies; perfect, glorious, immortal. R5126:6, 5017:5, 4177:5
It is raised – It will be raised. B133
Whoever shares in the first resurrection. E316; R4635:6; HG217:2; NS768:6
Full deliverance. R5758:5
With sins blotted out completely. R5839:1, 5690:2, 5416:1
To "Plane L" on the "Chart of the Ages." R274:6, 5060:5; A234; Q53:4
The natural and spiritual body do not exist together. R89:6
As one born of the flesh, our Lord was natural, but when he was born from the dead by the Spirit he was spiritual, and he is our leader in the order of development. This order in Christ is the key to the whole plan, and is the basis of Paul's statement concerning our resurrection. R6:2*
A spiritual body – A pneumatikos body. E312
A heavenly body. R4635:6
A spirit body. R5026:1; F728
Spirit birth. R4889:5; Q582:9
In full possession of its own merit. R4998:5, 3729:6; Q490:5
In power, glory and incorruption. R667:5
The resurrection birth. R5035:1
When the work of fitting is completed. CR420:2
Perfect, complete, lacking nothing. SM190:2
Without flaw, blameless and irreprovable. R5345:6, 5903:4
The image of the heavenly one, our Lord. R2194:6
In the case of the Church, not of the world. CR321:3; R4889:5
"They shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years." (Rev. 20:6) R5049:4, 4914:3, 4793:3, 3564:3, 654:6; Q461:5
In our Lord's case there was a sowing an animal body and a raising a spirit body. "Christ...being put to death indeed in flesh, but made alive in spirit." (1 Pet. 3:18--Roth.) R5222:2, 5025:5, 3904:4, 3564:3, 482:3*; T58; OV353:4
Jesus' new mind, his spirit begotten new nature, was, in the resurrection, granted the new body which the Father had promised. R5748:2
There is no suggestion in the Bible about Jesus having a fleshly body in heaven--that is all in creeds and hymn books. R5026:5
Not raised a natural body out of which will grow a spiritual body. R3904:4, 2797:2, 2318:3, 93:5, 66:2
The animal (natural) body and the spiritual body do not exist at the same time. R89:6
This was advanced truth to the Church, whose highest conceptions as Jews had been a resurrection in a body of flesh, an animal body, subject to many of the present blemishes. R1854:6
There is – The spiritual nature is one thing and the fleshly nature is another thing. The blending of the two natures would produce a hybrid nature or being. Q807:4
Nature is simply organism, and varies according to the form or quality of the organism. The element of life is always the same. Q808:T
The Lord Jesus left his spiritual nature and condition when he became the "man Christ Jesus." At his resurrection he received the divine nature. Q808:T
Is a natural body – A human body, which, in the resurrection, will still be earthly, human, adapted to the earth. A191, A200; R4668:4, 612:6; Q587:6
An animal body. SM41:1; HG35:1; NS637:3
An earthly resurrection which will in due time be revealed. F694
The stress laid by some on the present tense of the verb, be, in this passage, is of no value as an argument. It proves nothing. "Unto us a child is born" spoken by Isaiah (9:6) hundreds of years before t R89:5
The world is not to expect a spirit-begetting nor birth. R4889:5
And – Separate and distinct natures. R514:2, 454:1, 18:1; A181
Which you will have depends on which seed you are of when buried. R95:4
Is a spiritual body – A special, spiritual resurrection for the Church. F694; R5222:2
A spirit body. SM41:1
He does not say that the spirit body is a human body glorified. R5025:3; OV353:2
Earthly beings will not see these spiritual beings with their natural eyes, for the same reason that we cannot see angels now. R4064:6
If "it" means the body, how does it apply when the Apostle says "God giveth it a body as it has pleased him?" (verse 38) HG227:6
A spiritual body does not mean a soul without a body. HG12:5
We cannot imagine either the divine Father or our Lord Jesus without bodies of some sort. A200
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| 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. |
And so it is written – In harmony with this statement. (As surely as there are natural, human or earthly bodies, so surely also there is such a thing as a heavenly or spirit body.) R1259:5
The first man Adam – There was no pre-Adamite man. F42
Adam was the first human being. All the peoples of the earth are descended from Adam, no matter how different in color, stature, intelligence, etc. they may now be. R2344:6
Father or life-giver to his race. R4556:1
Head of the human family, and pattern of the perfect human being. R205:5, 277:2, 205:5
Adam generated no children until first Eve had been taken from his side. R4556:2
The first Adam is the sample of what an earthly body will attain to in the resurrection. R1855:2, 3564:3
There is no intimation in the Bible that spirituality or immortality was placed before him as of possible attainment. R66:2*
We are not sure that the Lord's Word speaks of Adam as a type. The Apostle does not contrast Adam and Jesus, but speaks of the first Adam and the second Adam. Christ is very unlike Adam. He was obedient. R5967:2; Q721:7
Adam and Eve in some respects foreshadowed Christ and the Church. Christ is to be the Great Life-giver, or Father of mankind; the Church will be the mother or caretaker of the regenerated hosts. R5141:5, 777:1
Was made – Became. R1259:5; Q742:1*
Made a living soul – An animal being. E138; R3564:3, 2797:3, 1259:5, 191:3; HG138:3
A human being. OV353:4; R5025:4
An earthly being. R2797:3, 1259:5
Literally, animal soul or living being. R191:3
Person. 15:4
Adam gives the natural body, which is mortal. R62:4*
The last Adam – The second Adam, "Root" or life-giver. E138, E455; R4556:1, 1747:4; NS340:4
The Lord in his resurrection is an illustration of the resurrection condition of the Church. R1855:2, 3564:3, 277:2; Q742:2
He is not the second Adam yet. He will not begin his work until the Millennial age, when he will become the second father to the race. R5967:2; Q722:T
Before beginning his work of regenerating the world, God has arranged that first from the wound in Christ's side, figuratively, an elect Church shall be formed--the second Eve. R5141:5; Q264:2
The second Adam will generate no children until the Church, the second Eve, shall have been perfected; made joint-heir and help mate in the Kingdom and its work of regeneration. R4556:2, 4994:6
As Christ will be the second Adam to the world for its regeneration, so the Church will be the second Eve to nourish, instruct, all the willing and obedient back into harmony with God during the Millennial age. OV381:1; R5967:5, 5188:5, 5719:3, 5141:5; Q264:2
The whole world can be regenerated only by the second Adam. R4555:2; NS340:4
Our Lord, as "the man Christ Jesus," was not the second Adam, and did not do the work of the second Adam. The plan of God proposes that the second Adam shall in relation to Adam take his place as the life-giver to a race who shall possess the earth and enjoy it; not as Redeemer, but as father to our race does our Lord correspond to Adam--as the second Adam. R4556:2
He is called the second Adam, in that he takes the place of the first Adam--undertakes to be the Father and life-giver to Adam and every member of his race upon condition of their obedience to him. NS340:4
A perfect one, just like Adam. R1043:3*
Was made – Was raised. R4854:3; Q658:3
Became – by resurrection. R1259:5
A quickening spirit – A life-giving spirit being. B107; E138; R4854:3, 4556:5, 3564:3, 2819:1, 2797:3, 1855:2, 1259:5, 579:3, 316:4*, 277:4, 206:1, 18:6; Q658:3; HG138:3; NS198:4
At his resurrection. R2981:2, 2758:1, 1995:5, 1856:6; Q742:1*
He is now the express image of the Father's person. (Heb. 1:3) R277:4, 206:2
After Jesus' resurrection he appeared in a body of flesh which veiled, yet represented him. R1995:6, 1873:6, 1416:4
Our Redeemer is not our father or the giver of our spiritual life. His earthly life rights, he gave to the Father without appropriating the merit to any until he applied them "on our behalf." R4556:5
In accepting Christ as Redeemer, the believing one is reckoned no longer as a dying son of the dead Adam, but as a living son of the "last Adam," having a new life in Christ. R1438:1
Christ was the last Adam and the Church is to be like him, with spiritual bodies. HG138:3
Christ gives the spiritual body, which is immortal. R62:4*
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| 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. |
Howbeit – However. R1259:6
But as if Paul were anticipating the caviling which would come, and determined to give a clear offset to it, he continues. R89:6
If we would think of the two orders of beings, we should consider the change that took place in one of those who became divine and how the change was effected. R1259:5
First the natural and afterward the spiritual, is applicable to the relation between the two Adams, as well as to other features of the plan. R145:4*
Was not first – That was not first. R89:6
The spiritual was not first, but the natural, afterwards the spiritual, so that the race in general inherited not the divine nature, but the earthly or human nature. R1259:6; E138
Which is spiritual – Greek: pneumatikos. E312
Which was spiritual. E455; R89:6
Which is natural – Which was animal. E138
Which is animal. HG12:4
Is first. R89:6
Afterward – The natural could not of itself become spiritual, neither could there be the spiritual, in God's order without "first the natural." R66:2*
Showing that the earthy animal man, precedes the heavenly, spiritual man, as God's true order; therefore the work of the "first man," precedes that of the "second man." HG15:5
Which is spiritual – Greek: pneumatikos. E312
The natural or "vile body" changed becomes the glorious body; changed by the power of the Spirit indwelling. (Rom. 8:11; Phil 3:21) R66:2
Illustrated by the written word, the Bible, in the order of purpose, preceding the unwritten, the book of Nature; yet in the order of time the unwritten word precedes the written. R29:6*
A spiritual body does not mean a soul without a body. HG12:5
Some incorrectly teach that man had and still has a spiritual nature. R191:4
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| 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. |
The first man – The first Adam continues to be the head of the human family. We still speak of him as father Adam. R5967:2; Q722:T
Who was a sample of what the race will be when perfect. A191
The world is to attain the likeness of the first Adam. R3564:3
The world at large will be members of the earthly Adam. SM41:T
See also comments on verse 45.
Is – Was. R1259:6
Of the earth, earthy – From the ground, earthly. R1259:6, 89:3
Human being. R89:3
Not a spirit being in any sense. Adam could not therefore die a spiritual death. R2841:1; SM47:2
He was an earthly image of a spiritual being, possessing qualities of the same kind, though differing widely in degree, range, and scope. A174
The energy of Jehovah operating on earthly substances produced man; the same energy operating on spirit substances produced angels. E105
The supposition that man could lose spiritual being arose from a confusion of thought concerning human and spiritual beings. R363:3
The second man – The second Adam. E455; R5718:3
Jesus, the spirit being. CR472:2
Not as Redeemer, but as father or lifegiver to our race does our Lord correspond to Adam. R4556:2; Q722:T
Our Lord will be the second Adam or second father or life-giver to Adam's race during the Millennium. R4556:2
He is not the second Adam yet. R5967:2, 4556:2; Q722:T
The "Little Flock" will be members of the second Adam. SM41:T
It is a great mistake of some to suppose that "the man Christ Jesus" was the second Adam. E137
Having taken our humanity, without its sin, Christ was in that nature made a sin offering. R106:5*
Is the Lord – At his second presence, during the Millennium. E455
Not the Logos, nor the man Christ Jesus. E136
Our Lord is referred to as already the second Adam, not because he has already given his life to Adam's race, but because he will do so in due time. R4556:2
Lord signifies master, ruler, governor. Lordship signifies dominion, power, authority. Husband is also a definition of Lord. The Anglo-Saxon word, Hlaford, from which our English word Lord is derived signifies breadwinner. The title of Lord thus applied to Jesus Christ is expressive of a glorious fullness of power and love. R61:1*
From heaven – The heavenly Lord. R5025:4, 5237:5, 3564:3; Q264:2; OV353:4; SM41:T
Our Redeemer, who humbled himself and took the earthly nature, thereby became the second Adam. R5025:4; OV353:4
The first-born from the dead, the justifier, the life-giver to the world. Q264:2
Christ, at his second advent; no longer identified with the first Adam. E137
Because the type was an earth man, does not set aside the truth that the antitype is a spiritual man. R145:1*
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| 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. |
As is the earthy – As was the first Adam. F721; R4556:4, 1511:5, 612:6, 206:4; HG138:3
Like the earthy one, Adam. R4556:4, 277:5, 206:4
Of what kind the earthy one, Adam. (Diaglott) R95:2
Such are they also – So are they also. F721
Will be in the resurrection. R4556:4, 1149:2*, 277:5, 206:4
Will be when raised. (Diaglott) R95:3
That are earthy – The world of mankind in general. F721
The earthy ones. R4556:4, 95:3
Human--adapted to the earth. R612:6
Those who shall have part in the earthly Kingdom shall partake of the earthly or human nature. R637:6, 277:5, 206:4
The world in general, who will experience restitution to human perfection, will be like the earthly one--like the first Adam before he sinned. F721; R382:1; HG138:3
Of the kind or nature of the earthly one, in his highest attainment, will be the kind or nature of all the earthly ones who by resurrection attain fullness of life and perfection. R1259:6, 1149:2*
And – Separate and distinct natures. R507:4, 18:1; A181
As is the heavenly – Like the heavenly one, Christ. R4556:4, 277:5, 206:4
When "born from the dead." R277:5, 206:4
Such are they also – So are they also. F721
Such will be in the resurrection. R4556:5, 95:3; NS178:5
Such also will be the heavenly ones when raised. (Diaglott) R95:3
The "second man," has a "wife" who becomes one with him. HG15:4
That are heavenly – That are heavenly ones; the new creation. R4556:5, 1511:5, 277:5, 206:4, 95:3; NS178:2
Now begotten to the heavenly nature by the Word of God through the spirit, to be born into the perfection of that being. R277:5, 206:4
Of the kind or nature attained by the one from heaven is to be the kind and nature of the heavenly ones. R1259:6
Those who have part in the heavenly or spiritual Kingdom shall partake of the spiritual nature. R637:6
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| 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. |
And as we – The Church. F722; R5575:1, 4556:5, 1855:2; OV138:4; NS178:2, 637:3
Have borne the image – Earthly bodies. B133
Borne the likeness of the earthly. R1259:6
As we now bear the image of the earthy--Adam. OV353:2
As earthly beings we did bear the image. NS178:2
In this life. R89:6
Been born of the flesh and thus attained something of the likeness of the earthly or animal man. R1855:5
When begotten of the flesh, we are born of the flesh in the likeness of the first Adam, earthly. R578:6
Although we have lost much of the grandeur and beauty of character, mind and form, yet we are in his likeness. R104:6
Jesus, in taking the form of a perfect man, would, of necessity, be in likeness to sinful flesh. (Rom. 8:3) R104:6
The old creation was in many things a picture or type of the new creation; a small representation. R1064:1*
All who are born of the flesh "bear the image of the earthy." R89:3
Positive evidence that here, in the flesh men have not attained the likeness or image of God, but that is something to be attained, when that which is perfect is come. R89:6
The first stage of the progressive development of the human family, is to bear the image of the first man, male and female, for "they were one flesh." (Gen. 2:24) HG15:4
Of the earthy – The earthly father, Adam. R1542:6; B133; E455; F721; R1542:6; NS178:2
The earthy one, Adam. R4556:5
Human nature. R360:6
We – The Church; joint-heirs with Christ, and sharers of the exceeding great and precious promises in the divine nature. (Rom. 8:17; 2 Pet. 1:4) E455; A198; R5575:1
Being begotten by the Spirit to the new, "divine nature." R1855:2, 578:6
Having given up the human nature to become "new creatures." R360:6
As new creatures in Christ. NS178:2
Shall also – If subsequently born of the Spirit. R1855:2, 578:6
If faithful. R5025:4, 5017:5
When resurrected. R1149:3*, 578:6; OV353:3
In the future. R89:6
Unless there be a falling away. A198
Bear the image – When born in the resurrection. R360:6, 5025:4; OV353:3
Be raised spiritual bodies. HG33:5; B133
Bear the likeness, ourselves be heavenly beings. R1855:2, 1259:6; A198; E141
Share in the nature and the likeness. OV353:3; R5025:3
Of the heavenly – The heavenly Lord B133; NS178:2
The heavenly one, Christ. R4556:5, 1855:2; F722; NS637:3
Our glorious Lord. OV353:3
The second Adam. E455; R578:6; OV353:3; NS178:2
The "second man," who also has a "wife" who becomes one with him. HG15:4
The spiritual body. R360:6
Heavenly and spiritual are used interchangeably in the Bible. R155:2*
Called to the obtaining of his glory; a share in Christ's resurrection, the first resurrection. R5575:1
Attainment of immortality. R4775:1
Become partakers of the new divine nature in the resurrection. R1542:6; OV138:4
The promises to the saints of the Gospel age are heavenly. HG333:5
Many seem to think that a spiritual body is not a literal body. The Apostle is not hear teaching that there is a "real" body, and there is a figurative, or metaphorical body. R119:3*; HG35:1
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| 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. |
Now this I say – Because I would have you understand that such a change from human to divine nature and organism is necessary. R1259:6
Flesh and blood – Humanity; "That which is born of the flesh is flesh." (John 3:6) R2422:1, 4793:6, 3175:1, 2980:4, 1856:3,6; NS100:1
Human nature. R2423:1, 1259:6, 611:3
Flesh and blood cannot see that which is spiritual. R5455:3
Our call to the spirit nature means the renunciation of the earthly nature in every sense. R4810:3
Flesh and blood will see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and all the prophets in the Kingdom. R4706:1
Our Lord is not now flesh and blood, and we must be made like him to inherit the heavenly Kingdom. F723; R5772:2, 5473:1, 5181:3, 4108:6, 1952:6, 507:4; Q461:5; SM66:4; CR327:2
Jesus was made flesh merely "that he, by the grace of God, should taste death for every man." (Heb. 2:9) HG627:6
Jesus was the first to pass from earthly to heavenly condition by his resurrection change--"put to death in flesh, he was made alive in spirit." (1 Pet. 3:18). The Church is promised a R5772:2, 5416:1, 5222:3
It is not the flesh that has entered the school of Christ. Our acceptance of the divine call to spirit nature meant the renouncement of the earthly nature in every sense of the word. R2439:5
Our bodies will not be called spiritual, but yet actually be flesh and blood. R1855:2
The members of the Bride shall be like unto the angels--heavenly or spirit beings. R4966:2; Q461:5
The spirit body is not a human body glorified. A human being is so totally different from a spirit being, and the Scriptures do not even attempt to give us an explanation. (1 John 3:2) OV353:2
The members of the glorified Body of Christ will not be like either the white or the black man. R513:6
We are not to delude ourselves as some are inclined to do, by saying that "flesh and bones" cannot inherit the Kingdom. R3175:1, 1856:5
Cannot inherit – We must die. R4054:3
We must be changed. CR471:6; R5199:5, 2573:4, 1952:6; OV285:T; HG204:6; NS199:5, 534:4, 637:2
Our Lord's elect Bride will constitute the first resurrection class, changed from earthly to heavenly nature. R4553:5, 5694:1, 4914:3; Q461:4
Jesus has gone to prepare a place for the Church in the Father's house on high. CR116:6
The full number of the elect must be found and be glorified by the resurrection change.
Completeness of actual justification and of actual sanctification and growth will be attained only in the first resurrection. R5208:5
Mankind will see Christ and his Bride only with the eye of faith. R4706:1
Christ and the Church are to reign as kings and priests in a Kingdom which earthly beings cannot inherit. R5575:1
"A spirit hath not flesh and bones." (Luke 24:39) B128; R578:3
The Kingdom of God belongs to the world to come, and is a spiritual Kingdom; and those who inherit it are to be spiritual beings. HG138:3
The Jews restored will be natural men, and such can neither see nor inherit the real Kingdom of God. R56:5*; OV108:2
There are two Adams, their two wives and two families; two births and two lives; two covenants, two laws, two sanctuaries, two circumcisions, two temples, two seeds, two nations, and two lands for inheritance. R56:5*, 89:6
The kingdom of God – Shortly to be established. R5930:6
"Except a man be born again (begotten now to a new nature, and born in the resurrection) he cannot enter the kingdom of God." (John 3:3) R3175:1, 2980:4, 1856:3, 397:4; Q838:2; T23
When this class shall have inherited the Kingdom, they will be prepared to do the work of judging the world. R5776:4
The promise and hope held before the Church was always the hope of the Kingdom. For it all have prayed. R1855:2
Neither doth corruption – Nor can we so long as corruptible. R1259:6
Incorruption – Greek, aptharsia, that which cannot decay. E397; F727; R2339:4, 204:1
This word, when applied to being, existence, is of similar significance to immortal. R1642:4
That incorruptible glory and kingdom promised us. R1259:6
Thus closes Paul's argument regarding the resurrection; but lest some should be perplexed and wonder how any could become spiritual bodies, if they should be alive when their Lord comes, he continues to explain. R95:5
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| 51 Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, |
Shew you a mystery – I will reveal a mystery to you, a point not clearly seen heretofore. R1259:6
A matter not yet fully plain and clear of which he could only give them a glimpse. R668:3
There is a mystery connected with this matter. F723
Which the Savior has been doing from the time of his death until now. NS740:5
The Apostle recognized that it would be difficult to fully grasp the thought of so thorough a change; that our difficulty would be less in respect to those who have fallen asleep in death than those alive. F723
So great a mystery, that few seem able to realize, that if a member of the Body of Christ die now, instead of sleeping even for a moment, he is changed to a spiritual body in an instant. R308:4
We – The Church. R1854:5, 845:1*, 678:2; HG366:5
Not the world. Q584:2
Shall not all sleep – In death, awaiting the resurrection morning. E345; R5829:6, 5132:2, 3027:6, 2617:5, 2197:6, 845:1, 274:6; HG332:2
As all members do who die before this time. R5132:2, 5059:6, 274:6
"Ye shall die like men." (Psa. 82:7) "Be thou faithful until de R1855:4; F724; Q122:2
Speaking of the closing of the Gospel age. R2617:5
Some will be alive and remain till the second coming of Jesus. R5017:6; HG231:3
To die is one thing; to remain unconscious, dead, is quite another. C239; R3175:2, 1259:6
The apostles frequently used this appropriate, hopeful and peaceful figure of speech. E345; R1881:1; HG332:2
The Apostles did not expect Christ's Kingdom in their day. Paul, while foretelling his own death, declared that some would be alive at the second coming of Christ. R5829:6, 5339:4
When the time for the establishment of God's Kingdom has come it will no longer be necessary to wait in the unconscious sleep of death. R1259:6; F724
The early Church thought that St. Paul meant that they would not sleep, but he was referring to the Church as a whole. R5339:3
The hope of each generation of the Church in early times, was, that they would be of those mentioned by Paul who would be alive when the Lord would return; that they might not be obliged to sleep in death. R665:2
For those alive at the time of our Lord's second presence, the moment of death will be the moment of resurrection change. R4914:5, 5728:6, 5339:4, 5017:6; Q117:2; PD61/72
The resurrection of the saints takes place at the presence of the Lord and before the inauguration of his Kingdom. R6013:1*
Death would not have been figuratively called sleep, except for the provision for a resurrection. R2617:6; SM38:2
The Church were asleep as new creatures. R5108:5
This statement is misunderstood by many to mean, "We shall not all die." It means that we shall not all pass through a period of unconsciousness. R3175:3, 1855:5, 473:3, 293:3: F724
In the case of Jesus, there were nearly three days of sleep. R475:2, 304:4
Regarding those who, at the time of their departure from this life, see heavenly visions of angels, and hear strains of celestial music, they saw not an actual glimpse of celestial glories, but merely a phantasmagoria induced by an excited condition of the imaginative powers of the mind, with a correspondingly dormant state of the reasoning faculties. Q762:1
But we shall all – We must all; the living no less than the dead saints. C232; R1496:6
Though we will not need to wait in sleep, the same change will be needful. R1259:6
We must all be. R95:5
Be changed – From human or flesh conditions to spirit conditions. R2980:4, 4071:3, 2980:4, 1855:4, 1484:4, 1260:2, 152:5
To a spiritual body in an instant. R308:4
From mortal to immortal, from animal bodies to spirit bodies. R1496:6, 2982:6; C232; HG145:3
From the earthly nature to the heavenly nature. R5299:2, 5510:3, 5178:5, 5078:5
By resurrection power from human nature to the glory, honor and immortality of the divine nature. R1879:5, 5038:3, 2765:4, 1259:6, 1260:2; OV285:T; HG299:5; NS178:4, 614:5
By the first resurrection power. R5199:5, 5407:3, 3376:1; HG231:1; OV343:1
By death, the dissolution of the earthen vessel. A235; F724
Receive life in complete measure instantly. R1854:5
Established enduringly on the heavenly plane at the right hand of God; principalities and powers being subject. SM506:T; CR114:4
Because "flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom." (verse 50) R5930:3, 5903:4, 5776:4, 5753:1, 5416:1, 5222:5, 5017:6, 4914:3, 4124:1; Q122:2, 461:5, 820:T; HG145:3; 231:4; 366:5; NS100:6, 656:6, 768:6
Not fall asleep, but in the moment of death be resurrected as part of the Church. D622; R3823:2; OV213:4; CR456:6; SM154:3
Be made partakers of the divine nature and as invisible to mankind thereafter as are God and the heavenly angels. D618; R5455:3, 3075:3, 3175:2
Those who inherit the heavenly Kingdom must become spirit beings before they can enter into it. R5181:3, 5772:2, 5623:4, 3075:3
In order that we may be "like him, and see him as he is." (1 John 3:2) R2318:6
Those alive at the second coming of Jesus will not take precedence over the sleeping ones, for "The dead in Christ shall rise first; then we which are alive and remain:" (1 Thes. 4:15) shall be changed in a mom R5017:6, 4794:2, 845:2*, 667:2; HG231:3
The only reason why the Church will see the Lord in glory will be because she will have the resurrection change. NS656:6
The change may be said to be all at one time in the sense that it is all in the harvest time, all in the end of the Age. Q122:2
Translated in a single moment. R361:5
From sacrificing priests, to priests of the Order of Melchizedek. SM145:T
Our death takes place before we enter the grave, and our life begins and grows for a while before we get the body which God has designed for us. R95:5
Rebecca's putting on of a veil (Gen. 24:65) would seem to mean the pathe spirit condition. NS293:4
The coming of Elijah to Mt. Horeb portrayed the fact that the Church will be in and under the Kingdom administration while still in the flesh, although the last members of the Church will not fully participate in the Kingdom honors and blessings until they shall have experienced the great resurrection change. R5752:6
All the peculiarities of male and female will be obliterated, for there is neither male nor female amongst the angels; and there will not be in the glorified Church. All will be alike, sexless. R4914:3; Q461:5
Those not thus changed will never see the Lord. D600
If we have our earthly natures consumed, then we shall get the divine nature. R5250:5
If the body members of Christ can be changed. so could the Ancient Worthies. They would be exchanging a perfect human nature for a perfect spirit nature as a reward for faithfulness in the service of the Lord. R5183:1
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| 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, during the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. |
In a moment – The instant of dying will be followed the next instant by the change. R3175:4, 5269:1, 4793:4, 3823:2, 1855:5, 1259:6; F724; NS338:1
Without an interim of sleep or corruption. R2339:4
Not all in the same moment, but each in his own moment, changed instantly--until gradually, the full number shall be completed. R3905:6, 667:4; Q122:2
Instead of sleeping for a moment. R308:4
This will be an instantaneous change. R5132:2, 6013:1*, 5728:6, 5354:2, 3107:1, 1854:5, 1259:6, 915:3, 475:2, 304:4; A200; C232
In the first resurrection. OV317:2; R5473:1; D618
Those of this class who have been previously dead will have an instantaneous resurrection. R4973:3
Instead of being awakened imperfect and requiring a thousand years to reach perfection, as will those of the resurrection by judgment. R1854:5
The wise virgins have been entering in to the marriage since the autumn of 1878 AD, and are still entering in; passing beyond the vail, changed, in a moment. R3868:6, 2982:5
1878 marked the time for the beginning of the establishment of the Kingdom of God, by the glorification of all who already slept in Christ. R3823:2, 5566:5, 2982:4, 1484:2
At the moment of death they enter into the glorious heavenly state where their works continue with them. From that time the Lord's people have entered at once into their reward. Q760:2
Though the moment of change may be the same for all who slept less, it is not God's plan that those who will be changed without sleep should be changed at the same moment; for it is written, "The dead in Christ shall rise first, then we, the remainder (or ones left over of the same class) appointed unto life, shall be caught away in clouds (into obscurity) to meet the Lord in the air." (1 Thes. 4:16, 17) R1260:4
Twinkling of an eye – At the end of our course. R5108:1
Instantly. R1855:5
And thus caught away in the heavenly conditions, spiritual conditions, "in the air" (1 Thes. 4:17) conditions. NS338:1
At the last trump – Greek, en, during, or in, the last trump. R668:4, 152:6
During the forepart of the period covered by the trump of God, the seventh trumpet, typified by the Jubilee trumpet. B197, B148; R5566:5, 1855:5, 1260:4, 579:6, 368:5, 579:3, 263:3, 194:4, 19:4; Q592:2
Which is already sounding. C232
The seventh of the series of symbolical trumpets began in 1874, just before our Lord took to himself his great power and began his reign. R2982:4
During which the first resurrection and change of living saints occurs. R194:4
In the end or close of the Gospel age, during the sounding of the seventh trumpet. (Rev. 11:15) R1260:4
When the seventh trumpet shall sound. R3175:4, 5132:2, 1855:5
It is a symbolic trumpet, which will sound during the entire Millennium. R1855:5, 2982:4; B148
When the Church is to be rewarded. There is to be no open demonstration. R579:6
We are now living under the sounding of the seventh trumpet. R845:2*
As we will not be rewarded twice, nor resurrected twice, we conclude that the "trump of God" (1 Thes. 4:16) and the "last trump" are R579:6, 263:3, 19:4
The symbolic trumpet which covers the period of forty years called The Day of the Lord. R668:4
The seventh or last trumpet did not sound all the way through, as men have been dying. R89:5
And the dead – In Christ, his members. R3175:4
The Church. E398; R1881:4
The sleepers. R678:2
The special dead, the saints. R204:4
The dead members must be raised to receive their change before they can be forever with the Lord. R5181:3
Those members of "the seed" (of God), Christ, who lie in death's cold embrace. R152:2
Raised incorruptible – Greek, apthartos, that which cannot decay. E398; R2339:3, 204:1
All who have part in the first resurrection. R2747:5
Shall arise spiritual, immortal, etc. R152:2
Immortal, not liable to corrupt, decay or perish. R204:4
And we – Of them then living. R3175:4
The saints who remain. R1881:4
Of the same order or class who remain. R1260:4, 204:4
Who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord. (1 Thes. 4:17) R152:2
All – All who have part in "the first resurrection," the victors, overcomers. R152:2
Shall be changed – At the first resurrection; to the divine nature. R4799:2, 5199:5, 5123:4, 4973:3, 3376:1, 1260:1
"Made like unto Christ's glorious (spiritual) body." (Phil. 3:21) R152:3
Those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord will be "changed" to the same place of spirit being; fully born of the spirit--heavenly, spiritual, incorruptible, immortal beings. A234
We know not how long it will be after their "change" before they, as a full company, will be glorified (plane K) with the Lord, united with him in power and great glory. A235; R5060:5, 274:6; Q53:4
Early in the morning of the Millennial age, the Church is to be helped, delivered. R4133:5
Not until our resurrection shall we be perfected in the divine likeness; but now, nothing short of purity of heart, will, intention, can be acceptable to God. R5123:4, 1855:4
The full change, begun in us by a change of heart, called the begetting of the Spirit. R1881:4, 626:4; HG333:6
Not at the same instant to all. A long period of over eighteen hundred years elapsed between the instantaneous change of our Lord and the change of those who have slept and waited for the Kingdom to come. R1260:2
Not a protracted or gradual changing from a little life to an abundant fullness. R1260:2
This change of condition, from the earthly to the spiritual body, is the third step of our development--redemption. (Rom. 8:23) R200:3
The "catching away" referred to in 1 Thes. 4:17. R152:3
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| 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. |
For – Because. R1260:4
Of necessity. R204:4
This corruptible – Greek, phthartos. R204:1
That part of the Body of Christ which is corrupted. R1260:4
This corruptible, diseased, perishable condition. R204:4
Put on incorruption – Greek, aptharsia, that which cannot decay, the death-proof state. E397; F727; R3175:2, 2339:4
Although aptharsia and athanasia represent in many respects the same thought, yet by antithesis the Apostle brings out their shaded differences in verses 53 and 54. R2339:4
Be invested with imperishable quality. R204:4
And this mortal – All who share in the first resurrection. E78
The Bible distinctly declares that man is mortal, that death is possible to him. R1642:5
That which is now dying. R1260:4
Dying condition. R204:4
Put on immortality – Greek, athanasia, deathlessness. E397; R2339:2
Self-existence; life-inherent. E78
A quality ascribed only to Jehovah, to Christ Jesus, and to his Bride. A186; R5116:4
This is the class which will receive the preeminence over all other classes, all other stations, in earth or in heaven. R5711:1
Why should it be any more incredible that Jesus' nature was transformed from the spiritual to the human without retaining his former nature under cover, than that the Church "shall put on immortality," and yet not retain the flesh and blood nature? R677:4*
The resurrection moment is the moment of immortality, the divine nature. Q115:1
Invested with unchangeability. R204:4
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| 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. |
So when – The attempt of some to make out that incorruptible refers to one state, and immortality to another is without foundation. Prof. Young, Liddell & Scott, and all other translators are right in using the two words interchangeably. R204:4
This corruptible – Greek, phthartos. R204:1
Our flesh is subject to decay. R3175:2
Referring to the saints who would be "asleep" or under the power of corruption and would put on a condition of incorruption by resurrection. R2339:4
Perishable condition. R204:4
Put on incorruption – Greek, aptharsia, that which cannot decay, the deathproof state. E397; F727; R3175:2, 2339:4, 204:1
This mortal – Dying condition. R204:4
Referring to the saints who would remain until the "change" and would pass from mortal to immortal conditions. R2339:4
Or dying part of the "Body of Christ" which is not to be changed until the dead members of the same Body have first been made incorruptible. R1260:4
Put on immortality – Greek, athanasia, deathlessness. E397; R2339:2, 204:1
Assume immortality; a lasting or unchangeable condition. R204:4
This promotion can be received from no other quarter than God himself, on his own terms. R5711:1
Be clothed with unchangeability. R204:4
When the entire Church of the first-born shall be completed. NS118:4
Then – When the Church has been glorified with her Lord. R1855:5, 1105:6, 86:3; SM465:2
Then the prophecy of victory over death will begin to have its fulfillment. It will require all of the Millennium to accomplish the victory over death. R3175:5; NS568:1
When the Little Flock has been changed to the full divine nature and likeness and has begun to rule and bless the world. R894:4; E373
During that Millennial reign. R1855:5
The grand work upon which we enter when "our seed" gets its own body. R95:6
Brought to pass – Begin to be fulfilled. R3175:5, 204:4, 95:6, 86:6
Be brought to fulfillment. R1260:4, 1106:1
Will that prophetic promise be fulfilled. R204:4
When this special class, the dead and we, the overcomers, the saints, are changed to undying, changeless conditions. R204:4
It is not now true. HG496:6
By the close of Messiah's reign he will have accomplished a great victory over sin and opposition, including death, which will be the last enemy to be fully destroyed. OV169:T; HG138:5
Saying – Divine prophecy. HG496:6; R1260:4
The Apostle gives this quotation from the Old Testament in corroboration of his argument that the only hope for the dead is a resurrection. E377
That is written – In Isa. 25:8. R86:3, 204:4; E46
As a general promise to the world. R1855:5
Death – Adamic death, not the second death. R1219:6
Which, as a great monster, has swallowed up mankind. R86:6, 474:3
This text is no proof that the restitution standing given to all in Christ will be maintained in the trial of the Millennial judgment and forever. R1219:5
This death being destroyed by the release of all out of it would not hinder any so released from dying the second death as the penalty for their own wilful sins, when on trial. R1219:6
Is swallowed up – An illusion to "He will swallow up death in victory." (Isa. 25:8) R2600:4, 1855:5, 1219:5, 894:4, 763:6
The work of the Millennial age, and a gradual one, just as the swallowing up of mankind by death has been a gradual one. E373; R1855:5, 87:1
The curse will not be entirely removed until about the close of the Millennium. R5780:1, 894:4, 87:1
Justice will never be cheated out of its dues; yet love gains the victory and provides the way out of the difficulty, and does this at the expense of the one through whom the whole plan is consummated; our blessed Lord Jesus. OV407:1
A pen picture of the blessings to be accomplished during (not after) Christ's reign of a thousand years. R1219:5, 86:6
The bruising of Satan "under your feet", (Rom. 14:20) and the destroying of deamplete. R86:3
Our work is to be two-fold; destroying and removing sin and its effects, and thus restoring to man happiness, purity, and all that was lost through sin. R87:4
In victory – Victoriously. R1260:4
The first resurrection, the change of the Church, will be but the beginning of the great victory which Christ is to achieve over death and the grave. R3175:4, 1260:5, 1106:1
The Church, and finally the world, get the victory over the grave by a resurrection. R308:5, 1106:1
The Millennial work of abolishing death and restoring life will then go on successfully. R204:4
To accomplish this complete victory over the grave will be the very object of establishing the Kingdom, and will require a thousand years. R3175:5, 1106:1
Every member of Adam's race is to be delivered by him who redeems all. HG497:2
Our Lord's resurrection was a step toward this victory. The change of his Church will be a further step; then the destruction of Adamic death by the release of all mankind from its control. R1260:5, 1106:1
The victory of our Lord, the victory of our Heavenly Father through our Lord Jesus Christ. HG138:4
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| 55 O death, where is thy sting? O Hades, where is thy victory? |
O death – Adamic death. R894:1
The Apostle, glancing down to the grand culmination at the close of the Millennium, exclaims with poetic fervor. R3175:6; NS5:4, 693:5
Where is thy sting – The sting which caused death is sin. R1260:5
"I will be thy plagues (gradual destruction)." (Hos. 8:14) HG497:2; E373; R2600:4, 763:6; OV168:3; HG497:1; NS568:2
Death has been stinging our race, blighting it for six thousand years, and sending it ignominiously to the tomb; but God has provided a Savior. R3175:6; OV406:5; 497:1
That there is a sting to death need not be told, for it has touched every member of our race. NS566:3
Where is now thy sting? By the close of the Millennial age sin and wilful sinners having been destroyed, there will be nothing thereafter to cause death. R1855:5; OV363:2, 169:T; NS568:3
When that which is perfect shall have come, the sting will be gone, the imperfection and weakness will be gone, the cause for sin will also be gone. HG497:1
In the case of Jesus, death had a sting which made him cry in agony, "My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?" (Mark 15:34) R308:4
All will have the sting of death withdrawn "through our Lord Jesus Christ." R308:5
O grave – O death. (Oldest Greek manuscripts) R1260:4
Greek, hades, oblivion. E377; R3789:4, 2600:4; SM526:2; OV168:3; HG556:6; 735:4*; NS568:1, 585:4
If hades is to be destroyed, how could anybody be tortured there everlastingly? OV363:1; E373; SM526:2
Paul is quoting from Hosea 13:14, "O grave, (sheol) I will SM526:2; E373; R2608:5, 763:6; OV138:3, 363:1; HG497:1; NS196:1, 118:4, 585:3; NS568:2, 793:6
Sheol, hades--hell. HG495:2; NS793:5
Whatever sheol is, it is to be destroyed. The grave, the tomb, the state of death is to be destroyed. OV138:3; NS118:4, 568:3, 793:5
"The gates of hell shall not prevail against it." (Matt. 16:18) R3789:3
The grave is really a symbol of hope; for we would not speak of it as a prison house were it not for our hopes of a resurrection. R1855:6, 894:1
The Revised Version translates this "death" instead of hades. We surmise it was to help keep the public in the dark respecting the true sentiments of the Word of God. R3176:2
Where is thy victory – The whole Church, and finally the world, get "victory" over the grave by a resurrection. R308:5
Ultimately, when death and hell (the grave) shall have delivered up all that are in them, and when the curse of death shall be no more, love will have triumphed over justice. OV406:4
The Lord and his Bride shall have conquered Adamic death and the grave shall have been opened, and all the prisoners of death shall have had fullest opportunity to accept Christ, and everlasting life. R1855:6
When all shall have become released from death to life, or else transferred to the second death, then Adamic death will have been vanquished; its victory over all who long for life will be at an end. R3176:1
The grave shall not always triumph over the human family; mankind will be delivered by Messiah's Kingdom from the power of the tomb. OV363:2
In the case of Jesus, the grave had a victory for nearly three days. R308:4
It is of those referred to in Verse 51 that the words of this verse are fully applicable. R308:4
"The gates of hell shall not prevail against her." (Matt. 16:18) As the Heavenly Father rat prevail against the Church. OV363:4; R3789:4
For several thousand years death has had the victory and the human family have been swallowed up by it. It is conservatively estimated that death has swallowed up 20 billion of humanity, and that 90,000 are going to the tomb every day. NS693:3, 566:3, 321:2; OV168:6
As yet death has the victory--sin dominates the world, and the Lord's faithful fall with the rest of mankind under the power of hades, the tomb. NS568:1
"Death and hell (hades) shall be cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death." (Rev. 20:14) OV363:1
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| 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. |
The sting of death – The Apostle continues his argument and shows that the victory will not be completely brought to pass until the end of the Millennium. R3176:4
It will require the entire Messianic age to fully extract from humanity the virus, the sting, of sin by bringing mankind to perfection. Only as the sting of death is removed will the power of death relax. HG496:6
The sting or virus which produces death and all its attendant sufferings. R3391:2, 1718:2
The sting which caused death: had sin not entered the world human death would not have been known. R1260:5
Death is now a result of disease inherited and transmitted from one generation to another; it was incurred as the curse or penalty for transgressing the divine law. R1683:2
"The wages of sin is death." (Rom. 6:23) R3391:2
Satan has the power of death. (Heb. 2:14) R1683:2,5, 1684-1686
Is sin – Sin is the poisonous sting which has blighted and killed our race. R1683:3
Illustrated through Israel's experiences with the fiery serpents in the wilderness. NS568:5
It was the poison of disobedience that entered our race through our first parents and has developed in us--as poison passes through the system from a serpent's bite. NS568:4
The strength – Power or weight. R1683:3, 3391:2, 3176:4
To thus sting to death. R3391:2
Since Satan is the father of sin, and thus of sinners, the power or strength or weight of sin may be said to be his power or influence. R1683:3
Of sin is the law – Whose vengeance or penalty the sin brought upon the sinner. R1683:3
Satan, the tempter, by starting sin amongst men, brought all under the sentence of divine law--under the power of death. R1683:3
It was God's law behind sin that determined what should constitute sin and what its sting or penalty should be. R1260:5
Sin brings forth death in us because this was the divine law. NS569:1
The perfect law of God, having been met by the Mediator, will be applied to the ransomed race only in such proportions as they can receive it--in proportion to their knowledge and ability to obey. R3176:4
Only as the sting of death is removed will the power of death relax, because it is part of the divine law. HG496:6
God's law condemned us all; and we would have been helpless had he left us under that sentence. NS569:2
No reasonable man could deny that God has the right as well as the power to destroy in death any creature who will not conform to his just and wise law. R3391:1
The letter of the law killeth, but the spirit of the law giveth life. R614:6
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| 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. |
But – The Apostle turns back his line of argument from the future time, to the present time. R3176:4
Thanks be to God – Thank God for the Savior he has provided--a Savior and a Great One, able to save unto the uttermost all who come unto the Father through him. NS569:4
Which giveth us – God gives us this by faith; so that even now we can "rejoice with joy unspeakable," (1 Pet. 1:8) and can so confidently looory over sin and death and the grave. R3176:4
While he was just in his law, and while the terrible penalty of that law, the sting of death, was merited by the race, he has graciously arranged for our victory over death and our escape from his just sentence. R1260:5
The victory – Now, through faith. NS569:4
Over death, the king of terrors, our captor. R678:1
Victory over sin, over death. NS5:4
The deliverance, triumph. E46
There can be no victory except as we keep the faith--our trust in the Lord as our Redeemer, in his care over us, in his willingness to help us, and in his ability to help. R2312:5
Not only including the Church's victory in the first resurrection, but the victory of all that shall ultimately be saved through the Millennial age. NS569:2
Through our Lord – And his meritorious sacrifice. NS569:2
He gained the victory by obedience in the things which he suffered, and by laying down his life as a propitiation for the sins of the whole world. NS196:1
"For to this end Christ both died, rose, and revived that he might be Lord (Master--or have authority over) the living and the dead." (Rom. 14:9) R464:1
The execution of every feature of the divine plan is placed in the hands of Christ. R27:2*
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| 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. |
Therefore – Because we see these things so clearly with the eye of faith. R3176:5
Be ye stedfast – "Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong." (1 Cor. 16:13) To stand is to adhere to R90:1
Unmoveable – To be established in the present truth signifies that our faith is steadfast and immovable. R1627:3*
Forasmuch as ye know – Knowing that. R3176:5
Labor – Faith sees the accomplished victory of the future; and even now exults and rejoices in the privilege of colaboring with the Redeemer, spending time, energy and life. R3176:5
Not in vain – Our labor at the present time must seem small and insignificant, because few have ears to hear and hearts to receive, but it is acceptable to God through Christ, and fitting us for joint-heirship with our Lord in his great work of the Millennial Kingdom. NS569:5
Because we confidently hope for, expect and wait for the glorious resurrection "change" and the glorious privileges of association with our Master in his Kingdom and work. R3176:5
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