1 Corinthians 15:28

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} when {G3752} all things {G3956} shall be subdued {G5293} unto him {G846}, then {G5119} shall {G5293} the Son {G5207} also {G2532} himself {G846} be subject {G5293} unto him that put {G5293} all things {G3956} under {G5293} him {G846}, that {G2443} God {G2316} may be {G5600} all {G3956} in {G1722} all {G3956}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now when everything has been subjected to the Son, then he will subject himself to God, who subjected everything to him; so that God may be everything in everyone.

Berean Standard Bible

And when all things have been subjected to Him, then the Son Himself will be made subject to Him who put all things under Him, so that God may be all in all.

American Standard Version

And when all things have been subjected unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subjected to him that did subject all things unto him, that God may be all in all.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Corinthians 15:28 culminates Paul's extensive argument for the resurrection, presenting the ultimate eschatological state where Christ, having completed His redemptive work of subduing all things, voluntarily subjects Himself to the Father. This profound act of filial obedience ensures that God the Father achieves His supreme and all-encompassing reign, becoming "all in all" within the new creation, signifying the perfect fulfillment of His divine purpose and the complete restoration of cosmic order.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the grand finale to [1 Corinthians 15](/1-corinthians/15 "1 Corinthians 15 - The Resurrection Chapter"), a pivotal chapter dedicated entirely to the doctrine of the resurrection. Paul begins by establishing the historical reality of Christ's resurrection as the foundation of Christian faith ([1 Corinthians 15:1-11](/1-corinthians/15-1-11 "1 Corinthians 15:1-11 - The Reality of Christ's Resurrection")). He then systematically dismantles arguments against the resurrection of believers, asserting that Christ's resurrection is the "firstfruits" guaranteeing the future resurrection of all who are in Him ([1 Corinthians 15:12-23](/1-corinthians/15-12-23 "1 Corinthians 15:12-23 - Christ the Firstfruits")). The passage immediately preceding verse 28 describes Christ's reign as King, during which He must "put all enemies under his feet," with [death being the last enemy to be destroyed](/1-corinthians/15-24-26 "1 Corinthians 15:24-26 - Christ's Reign and the Defeat of Death"). Therefore, verse 28 provides the ultimate resolution to this cosmic struggle, depicting the final act of Christ's redemptive work and the Father's ultimate supremacy.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First Corinthians was written by Paul to the church in Corinth, a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its diverse philosophical schools and moral laxity. Within this context, some members of the Corinthian church were denying the resurrection of the dead, possibly influenced by Greek philosophical thought that viewed the body as inferior or a prison for the soul. Paul’s robust defense of the resurrection was therefore crucial for correcting this theological error and affirming a core tenet of Christian hope. The concept of "subjection" was well-understood in Roman and Greek societies, often implying military conquest or political hierarchy. However, Paul reinterprets this concept within the divine economy, emphasizing voluntary submission and harmonious order rather than forceful subjugation, especially concerning the relationship within the Godhead.

* **Key Themes:** The verse profoundly contributes to several major theological themes. It underscores **Christ's Victorious Reign**, emphasizing His necessary dominion until all opposition, including death, is overcome ([1 Corinthians 15:25-26](/1-corinthians/15-25-26 "1 Corinthians 15:25-26 - Christ's Reign and the Destruction of Death")). It highlights the **Sovereignty of God the Father**, demonstrating that the entire redemptive plan, including Christ's work, ultimately serves to glorify the Father and establish His comprehensive rule. The theme of **Divine Unity and Harmony within the Trinity** is also prominent, as the Son's voluntary submission to the Father reveals a perfect, co-operative relationship, not one of inferiority in essence but of functional distinction in redemptive roles. Finally, it speaks to the **Eschatological Culmination of God's Plan**, painting a picture of the end times where God's presence and will are universally manifest and supreme, fulfilling His ultimate purpose for creation and redemption, echoing the comprehensive divine presence described in [Revelation 21:3](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **hypotássō (Greek, _hypotássō'_):** This word, translated as "subdued unto him" and "be subject unto him," means "to place under," "to subject," or "to arrange under." In the context of Christ's submission to the Father, it does not imply inferiority in nature or essence, but rather a voluntary act of perfect obedience, alignment, and functional subordination within the divine economy. It signifies a harmonious ordering rather than a forceful subjugation, reflecting the perfect unity and purpose within the Godhead.
* **pâs (Greek, _pâs'_):** Appearing multiple times as "all things" and "all in all," this word means "all," "any," "every," or "the whole." Its repeated use emphasizes the comprehensive and universal scope of Christ's dominion and the Father's ultimate sovereignty. It signifies that nothing will be outside of God's final, encompassing presence and rule.
* **theós (Greek, _theós'_):** Translated as "God," this term refers to the supreme Divinity, in this context, God the Father. The phrase "that God may be all in all" signifies the ultimate goal of the entire cosmic drama: the Father's absolute and universal supremacy, presence, and activity in every aspect of the new creation, where His will and glory permeate everything.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And when all things shall be subdued unto him":** This clause refers to the completion of Christ's kingly reign, during which He actively brings all opposing forces and powers into subjection under His authority. This includes the final defeat of death, as previously mentioned in the chapter. It highlights the successful execution of His redemptive mission.
* **"then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him":** Following the successful subjugation of all things, the Son, Jesus Christ, will voluntarily and willingly place Himself in subjection to God the Father, who is the ultimate source of all authority and power. This is not a demotion but a climactic act of perfect obedience and filial devotion, demonstrating the eternal harmony and distinct roles within the Trinity.
* **"that God may be all in all":** This is the ultimate purpose and glorious outcome of the entire redemptive process. It means that God the Father will be universally, comprehensively, and completely supreme, present, and active in every aspect of the new creation. His will, glory, and presence will permeate all existence, establishing a state of perfect divine order, absolute blessedness, and the complete fulfillment of God's original purpose for His creation.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in this verse to convey its profound theological truth. The verse functions as a **Climax** to the entire chapter, offering the ultimate resolution to the cosmic conflict and the final state of God's redemptive plan. The phrase "all in all" is an example of **Hyperbole** or **Merism**, emphasizing the absolute totality and comprehensiveness of God's presence and sovereignty. It signifies not merely a part, but the entirety of existence being permeated by God. Furthermore, the concept of the Son's voluntary submission, following His victorious reign, creates a powerful **Paradox** that highlights the unique nature of divine power and relationships within the Trinity – power expressed through humble obedience, and victory leading to submission for a higher purpose. The entire verse also serves as a powerful **Eschatological Statement**, painting a vivid picture of the ultimate future reality.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse presents a profound theological truth about the ultimate destiny of all creation and the harmonious working of the Trinity. It teaches that the entire redemptive arc, initiated by the Father and executed by the Son, culminates in the Father's ultimate and universal supremacy. Christ's temporary reign as King is a necessary phase to conquer all enemies, but His subsequent voluntary submission underscores that His mission is always to glorify the Father and bring all things into perfect alignment with the Father's will. This is not a hierarchy of being, but a hierarchy of function in the economy of salvation, revealing the perfect unity, love, and purpose within the Godhead. The "all in all" signifies a state where God's presence, power, and glory are fully manifest and acknowledged throughout all creation, establishing an eternal order of perfect blessedness and divine fulfillment.

* [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation and Universal Lordship")
* [Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head Over All Things")
* [Colossians 3:11](/colossians/3-11 "Colossians 3:11 - Christ is All, and in All")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 15:28 offers immense comfort, profound hope, and a powerful perspective for believers navigating the complexities of life. In a world often marked by chaos, injustice, and seemingly insurmountable challenges, this verse assures us that God's ultimate plan is unfolding precisely as intended, culminating in His absolute and undeniable sovereignty. It reminds us that no enemy, not even death itself, can ultimately thwart God's purposes. This truth should instill unwavering faith and resilience, encouraging us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our present struggles are temporary and that God's glorious presence will ultimately be the encompassing reality. Furthermore, it deepens our understanding of the Trinity, showcasing the perfect unity and harmonious cooperation within the Godhead as they work together for the ultimate glory of the Father. Our lives, therefore, should be lived in anticipation of this glorious future, seeking to align our wills with God's, and participating in His kingdom work, knowing that one day, He will indeed be "all in all."

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the assurance that "God may be all in all" impact your perspective on current global challenges or personal struggles?**
* **What does Christ's voluntary submission to the Father teach us about true leadership and humility within the Christian life?**
* **In what ways can we, as believers, live now in a manner that anticipates and reflects the future reality of God being "all in all"?**

### FAQ

**Does 1 Corinthians 15:28 imply that Jesus is inferior to God the Father?**

Answer: No, this verse does not imply that Jesus is inferior in His divine nature or essence. The "subjection" of the Son to the Father refers to a functional or economic subordination within the Godhead, not an ontological one. It describes Christ's voluntary act of bringing His redemptive mission to its ultimate conclusion, where His mediatorial reign is completed, and He formally presents the perfected kingdom back to the Father. This act demonstrates the perfect unity, harmony, and distinct roles within the Trinity, where the Son's purpose is always to glorify the Father, and the Father's purpose is ultimately fulfilled through the Son's work. It reflects the perfect love and obedience within the Godhead, consistent with passages like [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humility and Obedience").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Corinthians 15:28 finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the central figure in God's cosmic plan. The verse describes the culmination of Christ's redemptive reign, where He, as the victorious King, brings all things into subjection, including the final enemy, death ([1 Corinthians 15:25-26](/1-corinthians/15-25-26 "1 Corinthians 15:25-26 - Christ's Reign and the Destruction of Death")). This act of subduing is not merely a display of power, but the necessary work of the [Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), restoring humanity and creation to God. His subsequent voluntary submission to the Father is the ultimate act of filial obedience, demonstrating His perfect unity and alignment with the Father's will, a theme consistent with His earthly life where He always sought to do the Father's will ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus' Obedience to the Father")). This submission ensures that the Father's ultimate purpose—that God may be "all in all"—is realized, signifying the complete restoration of God's sovereign rule and glorious presence throughout all creation, a new heavens and new earth where [God dwells with His people](/revelation/21-3 "Revelation 21:3 - God's Dwelling with Humanity") and [Christ reigns forever and ever](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Christ"). Thus, Christ is the means, the agent, and the very embodiment of the Father's ultimate triumph, bringing all things to their divinely appointed end for the Father's eternal glory.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Colossians 3:11

Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all.

1 Corinthians 3:23

And ye are Christ's; and Christ [is] God's.

Ephesians 1:23

Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

Philippians 3:21

Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.

John 14:28

¶ Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come [again] unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.

1 Corinthians 11:3

But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman [is] the man; and the head of Christ [is] God.

1 Corinthians 12:6

And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.