1 Corinthians 15:53

For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal [must] put on immortality.

For {G1063} this {G5124} corruptible {G5349} must {G1163} put on {G1746} incorruption {G861}, and {G2532} this {G5124} mortal {G2349} must put on {G1746} immortality {G110}.

For this material which can decay must be clothed with imperishability, this which is mortal must be clothed with immortality.

For the perishable must be clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.

For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

1 Corinthians 15:53 is a pivotal verse in Paul's extensive discourse on the resurrection of the dead, offering a profound glimpse into the future state of believers. It declares the necessary transformation of our current, perishable bodies into imperishable, immortal ones.

Context

This verse is situated within 1 Corinthians chapter 15, often referred to as the "Resurrection Chapter." Paul addresses skepticism and misunderstandings among the Corinthians regarding the resurrection. He firmly establishes the resurrection of Christ as the foundation for the believer's future resurrection, arguing that without it, the Christian faith is futile. Leading up to verse 53, Paul explains the difference between the earthly, natural body and the heavenly, spiritual body (see 1 Corinthians 15:42-44), setting the stage for the miraculous transformation described here.

Meaning of the Verse

The verse states a divine imperative: "For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal [must] put on immortality."

  • "this corruptible" refers to our present human bodies, which are subject to decay, disease, and death. They are perishable and fragile.
  • "must put on incorruption" signifies a necessary and radical change. Our physical bodies, which are prone to corruption, will be transformed into bodies that are imperishable, eternal, and no longer subject to decay. This transformation is not merely an improvement but a complete change in nature.
  • "this mortal" emphasizes our current state of being subject to death. Every human being, by nature, is mortal.
  • "must put on immortality" points to the ultimate victory over death. Our bodies will become deathless, no longer susceptible to the sting of death. This is the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Key Themes and Significance

  • The Resurrection Body: This verse highlights the nature of the resurrected body, which will be fundamentally different from our earthly bodies. It will be suited for an eternal, heavenly existence. This transformation is a core tenet of Christian eschatology, offering profound hope.
  • Victory Over Death: The promise of putting on "immortality" signifies the ultimate triumph over death, which is seen as the last enemy (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:26). This victory is secured through Christ's resurrection and is extended to all who are in Him.
  • Divine Necessity: The word "must" (Greek: dei) indicates a divine necessity or an unchangeable purpose of God. This transformation is not optional but is part of God's sovereign plan for His people.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words used here are crucial for understanding the depth of this transformation:

  • "corruptible" comes from phtharton (φθαρτόν), meaning "perishable" or "subject to decay."
  • "incorruption" is aphtharsian (ἀφθαρσίαν), meaning "imperishability" or "immortality," often used in contrast to decay.
  • "mortal" is thnēton (θνητόν), indicating "subject to death."
  • "immortality" is athanasian (ἀθανασίαν), literally "deathlessness," the state of being free from death.

These terms emphasize a complete and permanent change from a state of decay and death to one of imperishability and eternal life.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 15:53 offers immense comfort and assurance. It underscores the glorious future awaiting those who trust in Christ, providing a powerful antidote to the fear of death and the sorrow of loss. This promise of a transformed, immortal body gives purpose to our present lives, encouraging us to live with an eternal perspective and to focus on spiritual realities rather than the temporary things of this world. It reinforces the hope of Christ transforming our humble bodies into glorious ones, aligning with His own resurrection body.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:2

    For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:

  • 2 Corinthians 5:4

    For we that are in [this] tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

  • 1 John 3:2

    Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.

  • Romans 2:7

    To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:

  • Romans 13:12

    The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

  • Romans 13:14

    But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof].

  • Ephesians 4:24

    And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
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