“He
put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when he says, “All things are put in subjection”, it is evident that he is excepted who subjected all things to him.
1 Corinthians 15:27
1 Corinthians 15 [25.] For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy that will be abolished is death. For, “He put all things in subjection under his feet.”[a] But when he says, “All things are put in subjection”, it is evident that he is excepted who subjected all things to him. When all things have been subjected to him, then the Son will also himself be subjected to him who subjected all things to him, that God may be all in all. Or else what will they do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead aren’t raised at all, why then are they baptized for the dead?
1 Corinthians 15 [30.] Why do we also stand in jeopardy every hour? I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.
Footnotes:
a. 1 Corinthians 15:27 Psalm 8:6.
Meaning:
This verse is part of Paul’s detailed discussion on the resurrection of the dead and the ultimate triumph of Christ. It emphasizes Christ's supreme authority and the comprehensive scope of His dominion. To fully grasp its meaning and significance,
- Resurrection Chapter:
Paul’s Defense: In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul defends the doctrine of the resurrection against skepticism. He explains the importance of Christ’s resurrection as the cornerstone of Christian faith and hope.
Christ’s Victory: Paul details the sequence of resurrection events, emphasizing Christ’s victory over death and His role in God’s redemptive plan.
Significance
- Subjection Under Christ:
Divine Authority: The phrase "He put all things in subjection under his feet" signifies the comprehensive authority of Christ. It echoes Psalm 8:6, which speaks of God’s intention for humanity and is fulfilled in Christ, the ultimate human and divine figure.
Cosmic Dominion: This subjection includes all powers and authorities, both spiritual and earthly, indicating that Christ’s dominion is absolute and universal.
- Exclusion of God the Father:
Clarification by Paul: When Paul states, "it is evident that he is excepted who subjected all things to him," he clarifies that God the Father, who granted this authority to Christ, is not included in the "all things" subjected to Christ. This maintains the distinction between the roles of the Father and the Son within the Trinity.
Divine Order: This distinction underscores the divine order and harmony within the Trinity. God the Father is the source of authority, and Christ exercises this authority as part of the divine plan.
Theological Significance
- Christ’s Reign:
Fulfillment of Prophecy: The concept of all things being subjected to Christ fulfills Old Testament prophecies and affirms His messianic role. It emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises to humanity.
Kingdom of God: Christ’s reign represents the establishment of God’s kingdom, where justice, peace, and righteousness prevail. It signifies the ultimate restoration of creation under God’s sovereign rule.
- Hope and Assurance:
Victory Over Death: Paul’s discussion of subjection is closely tied to the theme of resurrection. Christ’s authority over all things includes victory over death, providing hope and assurance to believers regarding their own resurrection and eternal life.
Present and Future: This subjection has both present and future dimensions. Currently, believers live under Christ’s authority, experiencing the blessings of His reign. Ultimately, this reign will be fully realized when Christ returns and God’s kingdom is consummated.
Practical Applications
- Living Under Christ’s Authority:
Submission: Acknowledge and submit to Christ’s authority in every aspect of life. This involves obedience to His teachings, seeking His guidance, and aligning our lives with His will.
Empowerment: Recognize that living under Christ’s authority empowers us to overcome challenges, resist evil, and live victoriously. His reign provides the strength and resources needed for faithful living.
- Proclaiming Christ’s Reign:
Gospel Message: Proclaim the good news of Christ’s reign and His victory over sin and death. Share the hope and assurance that comes from knowing Christ is Lord of all.
Kingdom Values: Promote values that reflect God’s kingdom, such as justice, mercy, and love. Work towards creating a community that embodies the principles of Christ’s reign.
Cross-References:
Ephesians 1:22: "He put all things in subjection under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things for the assembly." Paul reiterates Christ’s authority over all things and His role as head of the church, emphasizing the relationship between Christ’s dominion and the church’s mission.
Philippians 2:9-11: "Therefore God also highly exalted him, and gave to him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, those on earth, and those under the earth, and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." These verses highlight the universal acknowledgment of Christ’s lordship, reinforcing the theme of His comprehensive dominion.
Hebrews 2:8: "You have put all things in subjection under his feet." For in that he subjected all things to him, he left nothing that is not subject to him. But now we don’t see all things subjected to him, yet." The author of Hebrews affirms Christ’s authority while acknowledging that the full realization of this subjection is yet to come, pointing to a future consummation.
Conclusion: 1 Corinthians 15:27 highlights the comprehensive authority of Christ and the divine order within the Trinity. It affirms that Christ's reign includes all things except God the Father, who granted Him this authority. This subjection under Christ underscores the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan, offering believers hope and assurance in His ultimate victory over death.
As we live under Christ’s authority, we are called to submit to His lordship, proclaim His reign, and embody the values of His kingdom. This involves a life of obedience, empowerment, and witness, reflecting the transformative power of Christ’s dominion in our lives and communities.
By recognizing Christ’s supreme authority, we find strength and hope, knowing that all things are ultimately under His control. This understanding propels us to live faithfully, eagerly anticipating the full realization of His kingdom.
ideal - join - quality - unalterable
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible