1 Corinthians 15:51

Authorized King James Version

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἰδού,
Behold
used as imperative lo!
#2
μυστήριον
a mystery
a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites)
#3
ὑμῖν
you
to (with or by) you
#4
λέγω·
I shew
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#5
πάντες
all
all, any, every, the whole
#6
μὲν
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#7
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#8
κοιμηθησόμεθα
We shall
to put to sleep, i.e., (passively or reflexively) to slumber; figuratively, to decease
#9
πάντες
all
all, any, every, the whole
#10
δὲ
but
but, and, etc
#11
ἀλλαγησόμεθα
be changed
to make different

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 divine revelation 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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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