1 Corinthians 15:41

Authorized King James Version

There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἄλλη

G243

There is one

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

δόξῃ

G1391

glory

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

ἡλίου

G2246

of the sun

the sun; by implication, light

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἄλλη

G243

There is one

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

δόξῃ

G1391

glory

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

σελήνης

G4582

of the moon

the moon

καὶ

G2532

and

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

ἄλλη

G243

There is one

"else," i.e., different (in many applications)

#10

δόξῃ

G1391

glory

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

#11

ἀστέρος

G792

another star

a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively

#12

ἀστέρος

G792

another star

a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively

#13

γὰρ

G1063

for

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

#14

ἀστέρος

G792

another star

a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively

#15

διαφέρει

G1308

differeth from

to bear through, i.e., (literally) transport; usually to bear apart, i.e., (objectively) to toss about (figuratively, report); subjectively, to "diffe

#16

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#17

δόξῃ

G1391

glory

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

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing glory contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 glory in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding glory in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on glory address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Love