15:40 15:40

1 Corinthians 15:41

15:42 15:42

Bible Versions

[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 one {G243} glory {G1391} of the sun {G2246}, and {G2532} another {G243} glory {G1391} of the moon {G4582}, and {G2532} another {G243} glory {G1391} of the stars {G792}: for {G1063} one star {G792} differeth from {G1308} another star {G792} in {G1722} glory {G1391}.
The sun has one kind of beauty, the moon another, the stars yet another; indeed, each star has its own individual kind of beauty.
The sun has one degree of splendor, the moon another, and the stars another; and star differs from star in splendor.
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.

1 Corinthians 15:41 is part of Paul's extended argument for the reality and nature of the resurrection of the dead, a central doctrine of the Christian faith that was being questioned by some in the Corinthian church.

Context

In 1 Corinthians chapter 15, Paul systematically addresses doubts about the resurrection, moving from the historical fact of Christ's own resurrection as the firstfruits, to explaining the transformation of believers' bodies. Prior to this verse, Paul uses analogies from nature to illustrate how a new, glorified body can emerge from a mortal one, just as a seed dies to produce a plant (1 Corinthians 15:37). He then points out the diversity of flesh (1 Corinthians 15:39) and the distinction between celestial and terrestrial bodies (1 Corinthians 15:40), setting the stage for verse 41's emphasis on differing glories within the celestial realm.

Key Themes

  • Diversity in God's Creation: The verse vividly illustrates God's boundless creativity and the inherent variety in His creation. Even within the category of "stars," there are distinct levels of brightness and splendor. This natural observation serves as a powerful analogy for the spiritual realm.
  • Degrees of Glory: Paul uses the sun, moon, and stars to emphasize that while all resurrected bodies will be glorious, there may be different degrees or kinds of glory. This doesn't imply inequality in salvation but rather a diversity in the manifestation of God's work in His redeemed people, perhaps reflecting their earthly service or God's sovereign design.
  • Assurance of Resurrection: The underlying message is that if God can create such diverse and glorious bodies in the natural world, He is certainly capable of raising believers with new, transformed, and glorious bodies, far superior to their earthly counterparts (1 Corinthians 15:42).

Linguistic Insights

The key word in this verse is "glory" (Greek: doxa). In biblical usage, doxa signifies splendor, radiance, majesty, honor, and renown. It's not merely about visual brightness but about inherent worth, divine approval, and the manifestation of God's presence or nature. Paul uses it to convey the magnificent and radiant quality of the resurrected body, drawing a parallel to the visible splendor of celestial bodies. The phrase "differeth from another star in glory" uses the Greek word diapherei, meaning to "differ," "excel," or "be superior," underscoring the qualitative distinctions even among similar entities.

Practical Application

This verse offers comfort and hope regarding the future resurrection. It assures believers that their transformed bodies will possess a divine radiance, reflecting God's glory. While it hints at potential distinctions in heavenly glory, the primary emphasis is on the certainty and magnificent nature of the resurrection itself. It encourages us to marvel at God's intricate design in creation and to trust His promise for our future, knowing that He meticulously plans and executes His purposes with both order and infinite variety. This understanding can motivate us to live lives that honor God, anticipating the glorious future He has prepared for those who love Him.

Reflection

1 Corinthians 15:41 beautifully illustrates God's creative power and His intention for a glorious future for believers. By drawing parallels to the celestial bodies, Paul makes the profound mystery of the resurrection tangible and understandable. It reminds us that our eternal state will be one of splendor, reflecting the diverse and magnificent handiwork of our Creator, whose plans for us are always more glorious than we can imagine.

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.

  • Deuteronomy 4:19

    And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the stars, [even] all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the LORD thy God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.

  • Psalms 19:4

    Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,

  • Psalms 19:6

    His going forth [is] from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.

  • Genesis 1:14

    ¶ And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:

  • Job 31:26

    If I beheld the sun when it shined, or the moon walking [in] brightness;

  • Psalms 148:3

    Praise ye him, sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light.

  • Psalms 148:5

    Let them praise the name of the LORD: for he commanded, and they were created.
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