1 Corinthians 15:43

Authorized King James Version

It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
σπείρεται
It is sown
to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)
#2
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#3
ἀτιμίᾳ
dishonour
infamy, i.e., (subjectively) comparative indignity, (objectively) disgrace
#4
ἐγείρεται
it is raised
to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from
#5
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
δόξῃ·
glory
glory (as very apparent), in a wide application (literal or figurative, objective or subjective)
#7
σπείρεται
It is sown
to scatter, i.e., sow (literally or figuratively)
#8
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#9
ἀσθενείᾳ
weakness
feebleness (of mind or body); by implication, malady; morally, frailty
#10
ἐγείρεται
it is raised
to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from
#11
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
δυνάμει·
power
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)

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

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