What does 1 Corinthians 15:28 mean?
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. 1 Corinthians 15:28
Explanation
1 Corinthians 15:28 is a deep and theologically rich verse that speaks to the consummation of God’s plan for the universe. The “Son” refers to Jesus Christ, and the verse suggests that after Jesus has completed his role in subduing all things, he will himself be subjected to God the Father, who has given him the authority to subdue all. This submission is not one of inferiority but rather a role within the Trinitarian relationship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The phrase “that God may be all in all” indicates the ultimate goal of creation and providence: that God’s presence, glory, and sovereign rule are fully realized in all aspects of the universe.
Historical Context
The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address issues in the early church in Corinth, a multicultural city with various religious influences. The letter deals with divisions, moral issues, and misunderstandings about Christian doctrine. Chapter 15, in particular, is focused on the resurrection—a central theme of the Christian faith. At this time, the Christian community grappled with questions about life after death and the nature of the future kingdom of God. This verse reflects Paul’s attempt to clarify the relationship between Christ’s reign and the ultimate authority of God the Father.
Theological Insights
Theologians have interpreted 1 Corinthians 15:28 in various ways. Some see it as a statement about the economy of the Trinity, where the Son’s submission to the Father is an eternal aspect of their relationship. Others assert that it relates specifically to Christ’s incarnate ministry, which is temporary. Additionally, it has been used to discuss eschatology, the study of the end times, indicating that Christ’s work will result, finally, in the Father’s unchallenged sovereignty.
Practical Applications
This verse can be applied to daily life by reminding believers of the importance of submission to God’s authority. Just as Christ is depicted as ultimately submitting to the Father, Christians are called to trust in God’s plan and submit to His divine will in their lives. It also gives believers a vision of hope for a future where God’s presence will permeate every aspect of existence, encouraging them to work towards that reality in their own lives and communities.
Cross-References
Other verses that relate to the themes found in 1 Corinthians 15:28 include:
- Ephesians 1:22 – “And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,”
- Philippians 2:9-11 – “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
- Revelation 21:3 – “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.”
Language Study
The key terms in the original Greek of this verse provide additional insight:
- “Subdued” (ὑποταγήσεται, hypotagēsetai) indicates bringing things into subjection or submission.
- “Subject unto” (ὑποτάξει, hypotaxei) has a military connotation of being arranged under command.
- “All in all” (πάντα ἐν πᾶσιν, panta en pasin) suggests comprehensiveness and points to God’s omnipresence and omniscience after the completion of His plan.
Cultural and Religious Comparisons
Within other ancient religious systems, there are myths of gods and heroes conquering and bringing order to the cosmos. However, the Christian narrative stands distinct in portraying one God who is sovereign over all and whose plan culminates in a reinstated harmony without rivalry among the godhead, unlike the often fractious and competitive deities found in ancient mythologies.
Scientific Perspectives
While 1 Corinthians 15:28 does not directly engage with scientific disciplines, it does allude to a cosmological view wherein all aspects of the created order are brought into harmony under divine governance. Contemporary believers might find parallels in the way scientific laws suggest a universe governed by order, fostering dialogue about the relationship between the physical laws of the universe and God’s sovereignty.
Commentaries
Biblical commentaries offer varying insights on 1 Corinthians 15:28. Some emphasize the eschatological significance, interpreting the passage as illustrating the end of Christ’s mediatorial kingdom, handing it back to God the Father. Others focus on the Trinitarian relationships and how this passage affirms the unity and distinctions within the Godhead. Still others discuss the implications for understanding authority and submission within the Christian community and the glorified Christ’s relationship to the church.
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