1 Corinthians 15:57

But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

But {G1161} thanks {G5485} be to God {G2316}, which {G3588} giveth {G1325} us {G2254} the victory {G3534} through {G1223} our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}.

but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Yeshua the Messiah!

But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

but thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Commentary

Context of 1 Corinthians 15:57

First Corinthians chapter 15 is the Bible's most extensive discourse on the resurrection of the dead. Leading up to verse 57, the Apostle Paul meticulously argues for the historical reality of Christ's resurrection and its profound implications for the future resurrection of believers. He addresses doubts within the Corinthian church, explains the nature of the resurrected body, and climaxes with a triumphant declaration of death's ultimate defeat. Verses like 1 Corinthians 15:54 and 1 Corinthians 15:55 directly precede this verse, proclaiming death to be "swallowed up in victory" and its "sting" removed. Therefore, verse 57 serves as a powerful exclamation of gratitude and praise, summarizing the glorious truth revealed throughout the chapter.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Divine Source of Victory: The verse emphatically states that the victory is not earned by human effort but is a gift from God. It highlights God's sovereign power and His benevolent will to deliver humanity from its greatest adversaries.
  • Victory Through Jesus Christ: The means by which this victory is achieved is "through our Lord Jesus Christ." His death on the cross conquered sin, and His resurrection conquered death. This underscores the centrality of Christ's finished work in securing salvation and eternal life for believers. It is His triumph that becomes our triumph.
  • Conquest of Death and Sin: The "victory" here refers primarily to the ultimate triumph over death, which is the last enemy to be destroyed (1 Corinthians 15:26). Since the "sting of death is sin" (1 Corinthians 15:56), this victory also encompasses the defeat of sin's power and condemnation.
  • Profound Gratitude: The opening phrase, "But thanks [be] to God," encapsulates the appropriate response to such an immense and undeserved gift. It is an expression of worship and profound gratitude for the hope and assurance of resurrection and eternal life that Christ provides.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "victory" is nikΔ“ (Ξ½Ξ―ΞΊΞ·), which is also the root for the name "Nike" (the goddess of victory in Greek mythology, and the modern sports brand). In the biblical context, nikΔ“ signifies a decisive and complete triumph, not merely a struggle. Paul uses this powerful term to describe the absolute defeat of death and sin, emphasizing that Christ's work has secured a definitive and irreversible triumph for believers. This victory is not partial or temporary; it is ultimate and eternal, ensuring a future resurrection and deliverance from the grave's power.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 15:57 offers immense comfort, hope, and motivation:

  • Hope in the Face of Death: This verse provides a powerful antidote to the fear of death, reminding us that death is not the end but a conquered foe. Believers can face mortality with confidence, knowing that Jesus is the resurrection and the life.
  • Assurance in Life's Struggles: The victory over death and sin through Christ assures us that no earthly struggle or spiritual battle is insurmountable when viewed through the lens of His ultimate triumph. We have a divine helper who has already won the war.
  • Motivation for Holy Living: Understanding that sin's power has been broken and that eternal victory is ours should motivate us to live lives that honor God, pursuing holiness and righteousness (as exhorted in the very next verse).
  • Cultivating Gratitude: The verse calls us to a posture of thanksgiving. Regularly acknowledging God's incredible gift of victory through Christ fosters a heart of worship and deep appreciation for His grace and love. As Paul often encourages, we should always be thankful in all circumstances.

In essence, 1 Corinthians 15:57 is a triumphant shout of praise, anchoring the Christian's hope and security in the unshakeable victory secured by Jesus Christ over humanity's greatest enemies: sin and death.

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Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 2:14 (51 votes)

    Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

  • Romans 8:37 (41 votes)

    Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

  • 1 John 5:4 (40 votes)

    For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, [even] our faith.

  • 1 John 5:5 (40 votes)

    Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

  • Proverbs 21:31 (31 votes)

    The horse [is] prepared against the day of battle: but safety [is] of the LORD.

  • Revelation 12:11 (25 votes)

    And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.

  • John 16:33 (23 votes)

    These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.