What does 1 Corinthians 15:27 mean?
For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 1 Corinthians 15:27
Explanation
1 Corinthians 15:27 speaks to the supremacy and authority of Christ, especially in the context of his resurrection which is the main theme of the entire chapter. The verse draws from Psalm 8:6, where the psalmist speaks of God giving humanity dominion over the earth. Here, Paul is applying this concept not to humanity in general, but specifically to Christ.
The literal meaning of the verse is that God has put everything under the authority of Christ (“under his feet” is a metaphor for complete subjugation). The phrase “But when he saith all things are put under him” implies that this is an ongoing process, which will be fully accomplished in God’s timing. The exception “it is manifest that he is excepted” confirms that the one who is doing the subjugating (God the Father) is not Himself subjected to Christ’s authority. This maintains the distinction between God the Father and Christ while acknowledging the elevated position of Christ in God’s plan.
Historical Context
1 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth around A.D. 55. Corinth was a major Greek city and a hub of commerce, which made it a melting pot of cultures, religions, and philosophical ideas. This verse is part of a larger discourse in 1 Corinthians 15, where Paul addresses concerns and confusion about the nature of the resurrection of the dead, a doctrine that some in the Corinthian church were questioning or misunderstanding.
Theological Insights
This verse highlights a key point in Christian theology concerning the nature of Christ’s authority and its relation to God the Father. A Trinitarian interpretation would say this maintains the distinct persons of the Trinity while affirming the full divinity of Christ. Non-Trinitarian perspectives might see this as supporting a hierarchical view of God and Christ.
The verse also touches on eschatology, the study of the end times, as it implies a future complete victory of Christ over all things. Some theologians might connect this to the millennial reign of Christ mentioned in Revelation, interpreting it as a future event when Christ’s authority is fully manifested on earth.
Practical Applications
The practical applications of 1 Corinthians 15:27 involve subjects such as understanding Christ’s lordship in everyday life, submitting to divine authority, and having confidence in the ultimate triumph of God’s plan. For Christians, it means recognizing that all aspects of life are under the sovereignty of Christ and living with the hope and expectation of Christ’s ultimate victory over death and evil.
Cross-References
- Psalm 8:6: “Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet:”
- Ephesians 1:22: “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,”
- Hebrews 2:8: “Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that He put all in subjection under him, he left nothing that is not put under him. But now we see not yet all things put under him.”
- Philippians 2:9-11: “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:”
Language Study
Key words in the original Greek text of this verse include:
- “hypotassō” (ὑποτάσσω): usually translated as “to put under,” “to subject,” or “to subordinate.”
- “panta” (πάντα): meaning “all things” or “everything,” implying completeness in the context.
- “hupokatō” (ὑποκάτω): translating to “under his feet,” a phrase indicating totality of rule and subjugation.
- “dēloi” (δήλοι): meaning “clear” or “evident,” implying that what is being stated should be obvious or understood.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
Culturally, the concept of a deity or hero having dominion over the earth has parallels in various mythologies. For example, in some ancient myths, gods were often depicted as having control over the natural world and the cosmos. The idea of a singular God appointing his agent (Christ) to have authority can be contrasted with these polytheistic religions which often had a pantheon of gods with divided dominions.
Scientific Perspectives
From a scientific perspective, the verse doesn’t directly engage with scientific concepts but rather speaks to the spiritual and theological realm. However, one might consider the implications of the doctrine of Christ’s authority over all creation in discussions about the relationship between science and religion, such as discussions on the stewardship of the Earth and environmental ethics.
Commentaries
Different biblical scholars and theologians have offered various insights into 1 Corinthians 15:27:
- John Calvin emphasized Christ’s role as mediator in his commentary, suggesting that Christ, having been given dominion, will eventually render it back to God the Father in a reciprocal relationship of obedience and authority.
- Gordon D. Fee, in his commentary on 1 Corinthians, notes the significance of the phrase “under his feet,” highlighting the ancient practice of victors placing their feet on the necks of their vanquished enemies, symbolizing total defeat.
- Richard B. Hays points out that this passage speaks to the mysterious relationship between Christ and God, acknowledging both Christ’s ultimate authority under God and the continuation of God’s sovereignty.
- N.T. Wright often discusses the resurrection in his works, and while addressing this particular verse, points to the broader narrative of God’s restoration of the world through Christ. Wright sees the subjection of all things to Christ as part of God’s plan to restore and reconcile all of creation to Himself.
Looking for a Good 1 Corinthians Bible Study? Start Here:
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