1 Corinthians 15:50

Authorized King James Version

Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Τοῦτο

G5124

this

that thing

δέ

G1161

Now

but, and, etc

φημι

G5346

I say

to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say

ἀδελφοί

G80

brethren

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

σὰρξ

G4561

flesh

flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or

καὶ

G2532

and

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

αἷμα

G129

blood

blood, literally (of men or animals), figuratively (the juice of grapes) or specially (the atoning blood of christ); by implication, bloodshed, also k

βασιλείαν

G932

the kingdom

properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)

#10

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

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

#11

κληρονομεῖ

G2816

doth

to be an heir to (literally or figuratively)

#12

οὐ

G3756

cannot

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

#13

δύνανται

G1410

to be able or possible

#14

οὐδὲ

G3761

neither

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

#15

ἡ

G3588

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

#16

φθορὰ

G5356

corruption

decay, i.e., ruin (spontaneous or inflicted, literally or figuratively)

#17

τὴν

G3588

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

#18

ἀφθαρσίαν

G861

incorruption

incorruptibility; genitive, unending existence; (figuratively) genuineness

#19

κληρονομεῖ

G2816

doth

to be an heir to (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights kingdom of God through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of kingdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about kingdom, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood kingdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?
In what ways does understanding kingdom in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about kingdom of God?

Related Resources

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