1 Corinthians 15:25

For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.

For {G1063} he {G846} must {G1163} reign {G936}, till {G891}{G3739} he hath put {G302}{G5087} all {G3956} enemies {G2190} under {G5259} his {G846} feet {G4228}.

For he has to rule until he puts all his enemies under his feet.

For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet.

For he must reign, till he hath put all his enemies under his feet.

Commentary

Context of 1 Corinthians 15:25

This verse is a pivotal statement within Paul's extensive argument in 1 Corinthians chapter 15, often called the "Resurrection Chapter." Paul is defending the bodily resurrection of Christ and, by extension, the future resurrection of believers. Having established Christ as the firstfruits of those who sleep (v. 20), he then describes the order of events leading to the ultimate culmination of God's redemptive plan. Verse 25 explains the necessity and duration of Christ's present reign, which is a crucial phase before the final subjection of all things to God the Father.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Sovereignty and Necessity of Christ's Reign: The phrase "he must reign" translates the Greek word dei (δεῖ), signifying a divine necessity or obligation. Christ's reign is not optional but a preordained, essential part of God's plan for redemption and cosmic order. It emphasizes His supreme authority and active rule from His ascension.
  • Ultimate Victory Over All Enemies: The core message is Christ's absolute triumph. The "enemies" include sin, spiritual powers, and ultimately, death itself, which is explicitly named as the last enemy in the following verse. This reign continues until every opposing force is completely subdued.
  • Complete Subjugation ("Under His Feet"): The imagery of putting enemies "under his feet" is a powerful ancient Near Eastern idiom signifying total conquest, humiliation, and dominion. It draws from Old Testament prophecies, notably Psalm 110:1, which states, "The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool." This signifies Christ's ultimate authority and complete victory over all opposition, including spiritual forces and human rebellion (Ephesians 1:22, Colossians 2:15).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek verb for "must" (dei, δεῖ) conveys a divine imperative, not just a suggestion or a temporary state. It highlights that Christ's reign is part of God's unchangeable purpose. The phrase "put all enemies under his feet" (ὑπο τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ – hypo tous podas autou) is a direct quotation or strong allusion to Psalm 110:1, a messianic psalm frequently cited in the New Testament to affirm Christ's supreme authority and eventual triumph.

Practical Application

For believers, 1 Corinthians 15:25 offers profound assurance and hope. It reminds us that despite present struggles, evil, or suffering, Christ is actively reigning and His victory is certain. This truth provides:

  • Comfort and Security: Knowing that Christ is sovereign over all things, even our greatest fears and adversaries, brings peace.
  • Confidence in God's Plan: It reaffirms that God's redemptive purposes will be fully realized, culminating in a universe where all things are subjected to Christ, and ultimately, God.
  • Motivation for Perseverance: This verse encourages believers to stand firm in their faith, knowing that the King is on His throne and will ultimately conquer every foe.

It calls us to acknowledge Christ's present reign and anticipate His final, glorious triumph.

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Cross-References

  • Hebrews 10:12 (10 votes)

    But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;

  • Hebrews 10:13 (10 votes)

    From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.

  • Psalms 110:1 (10 votes)

    ¶ A Psalm of David. The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool.

  • Matthew 22:44 (7 votes)

    The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool?

  • Psalms 2:6 (6 votes)

    Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.

  • Psalms 2:10 (6 votes)

    ¶ Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.

  • Hebrews 1:13 (6 votes)

    But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool?