1 Corinthians 15:16

Authorized King James Version

For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:

Word-by-Word Analysis

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

νεκροὶ

G3498

the dead

dead (literally or figuratively; also as noun)

οὐκ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἐγήγερται·

G1453

to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from

οὐδὲ

G3761

then

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

Χριστὸς

G5547

not Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

ἐγήγερται·

G1453

to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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