The Differences and Distinctions of Resurrection Bodies...

Yesterday, we saw Paul reveal that there are distinctions and differences between our earthly and resurrection bodies. As Paul continues his discussion about the resurrection bodies we will receive, he unpacks the specific distinctions and differences when it comes to our physical earthly bodies and our resurrection bodies in 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. Let’s look at these verses together:

So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown a perishable body, it is raised an imperishable body; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.

In these verses, we see Paul provide four specific distinctions and differences between our earthly physical bodies and our resurrection bodies. First, Paul states that it is sown a perishable body; it is raised an imperishable body. Paul is explaining that while our earthly bodies that are buried in the earth are so composed as to experience decay and deterioration, our resurrection bodies that we will receive when we are raised from the dead will not decay or deteriorate.

Second, Paul states that it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. Paul’s point is that while our earthly bodies are covered with dishonor and disrespect as a result of our selfishness and sin, our resurrection bodies that we will receive when we are raised from the dead will reflect that radiance and splendor of God.

Third, Paul states that it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. Paul is explaining that while our earthly bodies were unable to function as originally designed by God due to our selfishness and sin, our resurrection bodies that we will receive when we are raised from the dead will be raised in the power of the Holy Spirit so as to function effectively as designed.

Fourth, Paul explains that it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. Paul’s point is that while our earthly bodies are physical bodies that are intrinsically are a part of the natural world, our resurrection bodies that we will receive when we are raised from the dead will transcend the physical and are eternal in nature.

Paul then confronts the members of the churches rejection of the resurrection by explaining that you cannot have a natural body without a spiritual body. In other words, to be created in the image of God for relationship with God and one another in community requires the existence of a resurrection bodies.

Without the resurrection, and without a resurrection body that has been transformed by the Spirit of God, we are unable to experience the relationship with God that we were created to experience for all eternity.

Tomorrow, we will see Paul unpack the reasons behind this timeless truth.