1 Corinthians 15:38

Authorized King James Version

But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

θεὸς

G2316

God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

αὐτῷ

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

δίδωσιν

G1325

giveth

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

σῶμα

G4983

a body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

καθὼς

G2531

just (or inasmuch) as, that

ἠθέλησεν

G2309

it hath pleased him

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#10

ἑκάστῳ

G1538

to every

each or every

#11

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#12

σπερμάτων

G4690

seed

something sown, i.e., seed (including the male "sperm"); by implication, offspring; specially, a remnant (figuratively, as if kept over for planting)

#13

τὸ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#14

ἴδιον

G2398

his own

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

#15

σῶμα

G4983

a body

the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 15 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?

Related Resources

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