How does 1 Corinthians 15:26 connect to Jesus' victory over death? Death: Humanity’s Oldest and Fiercest Enemy • 1 Corinthians 15:26 declares, “The last enemy to be destroyed is death.” • Scripture treats death as an intruder (Genesis 2:17; Romans 5:12). • Because death came through Adam, it reigns over every human life—until Christ. Jesus Steps Onto the Battlefield – “Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits…” – “Since death came through a man, resurrection also comes through a Man.” – “As in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” • By joining our humanity (Hebrews 2:14), Jesus faced death head-on and broke its power. • John 11:25: “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live…” The Cross and the Empty Tomb: The Tide Turns • On the cross Jesus paid sin’s penalty; in rising He shattered death’s hold (Romans 6:9). • Acts 2:24: God “released Him from the agony of death, because it was impossible for death to keep its hold on Him.” • Revelation 1:18: “I was dead, and behold, now I am alive forever… I hold the keys of Death and of Hades.” Present Impact: Victory Experienced Now • Believers share Christ’s life today (Ephesians 2:5–6). • Hebrews 2:15: we are “freed… from slavery by the fear of death.” • 2 Timothy 1:10: Jesus “abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.” Future Fulfillment: When Death Is Finally Destroyed – “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” – “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” • Revelation 20:14: “Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire.” • God’s promise echoes Isaiah 25:8: “He will swallow up death forever.” Living in the Light of the Victory • Confidence: our last breath is not the end but a doorway to Christ’s presence (2 Corinthians 5:8). • Hope: every grave will one day give way to resurrection glory (1 Thessalonians 4:16–17). • Mission: proclaim the One who conquered death so others may share His life (1 Corinthians 15:58). |
    |