1 Corinthians 15:40

Authorized King James Version

There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

There are also

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

σώματα

G4983

bodies

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

ἐπουρανίων

G2032

celestial

above the sky

καὶ

G2532

There are also

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

σώματα

G4983

bodies

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

ἐπιγείων

G1919

terrestrial

worldly (physically or morally)

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ἑτέρα

G2087

is another

(an-, the) other or different

μὲν

G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

#10

ἡ

G3588

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

#11

τῶν

G3588

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

#12

ἐπουρανίων

G2032

celestial

above the sky

#13

δόξα

G1391

the glory

glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)

#14

ἑτέρα

G2087

is another

(an-, the) other or different

#15

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#16

ἡ

G3588

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

#17

τῶν

G3588

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

#18

ἐπιγείων

G1919

terrestrial

worldly (physically or morally)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, 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

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of glory differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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