1 Corinthians 15:51
Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
Original Language Analysis
μυστήριον
a mystery
G3466
μυστήριον
a mystery
Strong's:
G3466
Word #:
2 of 11
a secret or "mystery" (through the idea of silence imposed by initiation into religious rites)
λέγω·
I shew
G3004
λέγω·
I shew
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
4 of 11
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
μὲν
G3303
μὲν
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
Cross References
Historical Context
Early Christians expected Christ's imminent return (Acts 1:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17, James 5:8). Paul writes to clarify what happens to those alive at the parousia—they won't be disadvantaged compared to deceased saints. Both groups receive resurrection bodies simultaneously, though through different processes (resurrection vs. transformation).
Questions for Reflection
- Why does Paul call this a 'mystery'—what was previously hidden that's now revealed?
- How does the promise that living believers will be transformed address concerns about 'missing out'?
- What does it mean to be 'changed'—how does transformation differ from resurrection?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Behold, I shew you a mystery (ἰδοὺ μυστήριον ὑμῖν λέγω)—The word mystērion (μυστήριον, "mystery, secret") refers to truth previously hidden, now revealed by God (Romans 16:25, Ephesians 3:3-6). The imperative idou (ἰδού, "behold, look") demands attention. Paul unveils something startling: not all believers will die before resurrection.
We shall not all sleep (πάντες οὐ κοιμηθησόμεθα)—The verb koimēthēsometha (κοιμηθησόμεθα, "we will sleep") uses Christian euphemism for death. Paul includes himself ("we")—he expected Christ might return in his lifetime (1 Thessalonians 4:15). Some believers will be alive at the parousia. But we shall all be changed (πάντες δὲ ἀλλαγησόμεθα)—the future passive verb allagēsometha (ἀλλαγησόμεθα, "we shall be changed") indicates divine action. All believers, whether dead (resurrected) or living (transformed), will receive resurrection bodies.