What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 15:42?

So will it be with the resurrection of the dead

“ So will it be with the resurrection of the dead ” (1 Corinthians 15:42a)

• Paul has just illustrated resurrection by comparing seeds planted in the ground to the bodies that die (vv. 36–41).

• Just as the seed’s future plant looks very different yet is the true continuation of that seed, so our resurrected bodies will be gloriously transformed yet remain truly ours (Philippians 3:20-21; 1 John 3:2).

• The phrase “so will it be” ties every point in the preceding illustration to the certainty of bodily resurrection—underscoring that God’s creative power guarantees the outcome (Genesis 1:11-13; Acts 26:8).

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What is sown is perishable

“ What is sown is perishable ” (1 Corinthians 15:42b)

• “Sown” pictures burial; our present bodies are like seeds placed in the earth (John 12:24).

• Perishable means subject to decay, disease, aging, and ultimately death—realities introduced through Adam’s sin (Romans 5:12; 2 Corinthians 4:16).

• Recognizing the frailty of our current bodies highlights the hope that follows: these limitations are temporary, not eternal (Psalm 103:14-16).

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It is raised imperishable

“ It is raised imperishable ” (1 Corinthians 15:42c)

• “Raised” affirms a literal, bodily resurrection accomplished by God’s power, the same power that raised Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:14; Romans 8:11).

• Imperishable means incapable of decay—no weakness, no sickness, no death (Revelation 21:4; Isaiah 25:8).

• This transformation fulfills God’s promise that mortality will be swallowed up by life (2 Corinthians 5:4), enabling eternal, joyful fellowship with Him (1 Thessalonians 4:17).

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summary

The buried body, like a perishable seed, goes into the ground frail and temporary. At Christ’s return it will be raised imperishable—incorruptible, powerful, and fit for unending life with God. Our present weakness underscores the glory that awaits, rooting our hope in the sure promise of bodily resurrection guaranteed by Jesus’ own victory over the grave.