Monday, 13 April 2015
Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; nor does corruption inherit incorruption. 1 Corinthians 15:50
In verse 35 Paul noted that, “… someone will say, ‘How are the dead raised up? And with what body do they come?'” He has been answering this question since then by making analogies that we can comprehend based on our knowledge of things. However, an entirely new revelation is given from him which is not based on analogy. Rather, it is given as a statement of fact. His words, “Now I say, brethren…” mean that he is adamant about his thoughts and they are words directed specifically to believers.
“Flesh and blood” is a term which is set against, “flesh and bone.” According to Genesis 9:4 (and a principle taught many times after that in Scripture), the life is in the blood. When Jesus died on the cross, His blood was shed. This was the necessary evidence to prove His death. After the resurrection, He used the term “flesh and bones” when showing Himself to the apostles –
“Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.” Luke 24:39
This same basic terminology was used by Adam when Eve was created –
“This is now bone of my bones
And flesh of my flesh;
She shall be called Woman,
Because she was taken out of Man.” Genesis 2:23
These words, “bone” and “flesh,” are used quite a few more times in Scripture to indicate identification between individuals. The last time it is used is in Ephesians 5:30 when speaking of the relationship of believers within the body of Christ –
“For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.”
However, the words “flesh” and “blood” are used when speaking of Jesus’ earthly ministry; a ministry which is now complete. That is found explained in Hebrews 2:14 –
“Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil.”
The “flesh and blood” is corruptible and this state “cannot inherit the kingdom of God.” Whatever our bodies will be like, the Bible shows that they will be different than what we now possess. This is why Paul is so careful to show us that our corruption will not inherit incorruption.
Life application: Our current bodies, as marvelous as they are, are weak and corruptible. The blood which runs through our veins will someday be replaced with a new life force, a life force which will allow us to continue on through all eternity. Hold fast to the truth that God has it all under control and that what He has promised will come about just as it is written!
O God! Access is restored through the blood of the Lamb. I now can again enter into Your presence and fellowship with You in the Garden of Delight which we lost so long ago. I believe the message, I receive Your Gift. Thank You for Jesus who has made all things new. Give me the heart and desire to share this wonderful word with others so that they also may walk in Your presence for all eternity! Hallelujah to the Lamb. Amen.