How does 1 Corinthians 15:46 clarify the order of spiritual and natural life? Seeing the Text “The spiritual, however, was not first, but the natural, and then the spiritual.” (1 Corinthians 15:46) The Principle Stated • God set a fixed sequence: natural life comes first, spiritual life follows. • This is not merely an illustration but a literal, God-ordained pattern woven through creation and redemption. Adam and Christ as Illustrations – Adam: “a living being” formed from dust (Genesis 2:7). – Christ: “a life-giving spirit,” from heaven. • The first Adam embodies natural life—flesh, breath, earthly existence. • The last Adam (Christ) embodies spiritual life—resurrection power, eternal sonship. • Sequence: 1. Dust-formed Adam → natural humanity. 2. Risen Christ → spiritual humanity. Other Scriptures Echoing the Order • John 3:6 — “Flesh is born of flesh, but spirit is born of the Spirit.” • Romans 8:29–30 — foreknown, called, justified, glorified: the Spirit’s work follows earthly calling. • 2 Corinthians 5:1–5 — earthly tent first, heavenly dwelling afterward. • Revelation 20:4–6 — bodily resurrection precedes eternal reign. Why the Order Matters • Underscores our need for new birth; natural existence alone is insufficient (John 3:3). • Confirms bodily resurrection is real—God never discards the natural but transforms it (Philippians 3:20–21). • Guards against any teaching that bypasses the cross and bodily resurrection for “purely spiritual” notions. How It Shapes Daily Living • Appreciate the gift of physical life; steward the body as God’s creation. • Pursue the Spirit’s life now, knowing it is God’s promised “second stage.” • Face mortality with hope: what is sown in weakness will be raised in power (1 Corinthians 15:42–44). • Share the gospel confidently—every person living naturally today is a candidate for the spiritual life Christ offers. Key Takeaways to Remember • God’s pattern: first the natural, then the spiritual. • Adam and Christ embody that pattern literally. • The resurrection fulfills and completes God’s sequence, securing a glorious future for all who are in Christ. |
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