1 Corinthians 15:55

"Where, O Death, is your victory? Where, O Death, is your sting?"

Study Bible

Where, O death
The phrase begins with a rhetorical question that challenges the power and finality of death. In the Greek, "death" is "thanatos," which signifies not just physical death but also spiritual separation from God. Historically, death was seen as the ultimate enemy, a force that no human could overcome. However, in the context of 1 Corinthians 15, Paul is addressing the Corinthian church with the triumphant message of Christ's resurrection, which has fundamentally altered the believer's relationship with death. The question "Where?" implies that death's power has been nullified, a revolutionary concept in both Jewish and Greco-Roman thought.

is your victory?
The Greek word for "victory" is "nikos," which denotes conquest or triumph. In ancient times, victory was often associated with military conquest or athletic success. Here, Paul uses it to describe the ultimate triumph over death through Jesus Christ. The resurrection of Christ is the pivotal event that has secured this victory, rendering death powerless over those who are in Christ. This assurance of victory is a cornerstone of Christian hope, emphasizing that death does not have the final say.

Where, O death, is your sting?
The word "sting" in Greek is "kentron," which refers to a sharp point, like that of a scorpion or a bee. It symbolizes the pain and fear associated with death. In the ancient world, the sting of death was seen as inevitable and inescapable. However, Paul is declaring that through Christ's resurrection, the sting has been removed. Theologically, this points to the idea that sin, which gives death its sting, has been dealt with through the atoning work of Jesus. The imagery here is powerful, suggesting that what once caused fear and suffering has been rendered harmless.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of 1 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth, providing them with theological insights and practical guidance.

2. Corinth
A major city in ancient Greece, known for its diverse population and cultural influences, which presented unique challenges to the early Christian community.

3. Resurrection of Christ
The central event that Paul discusses in this chapter, emphasizing the victory over death through Jesus' resurrection.

4. Death
Personified in this verse as an entity that once held power but is now defeated through Christ.

5. Victory
The triumph over death and sin achieved through Jesus' resurrection, offering believers hope and assurance of eternal life.

Teaching Points

The Defeat of Death
The resurrection of Jesus Christ signifies the ultimate defeat of death. Believers can live with the assurance that death is not the end but a transition to eternal life with God.

The Power of the Resurrection
The resurrection is central to Christian faith. It validates Jesus' divinity and His victory over sin and death, providing a foundation for hope and faith.

Living in Victory
Christians are called to live in the victory of Christ's resurrection, which means living without the fear of death and embracing the abundant life Jesus offers.

Hope in Eternal Life
The promise of eternal life should influence how believers live today, encouraging them to focus on eternal values and invest in their relationship with God.

Encouragement in Trials
Understanding that death has lost its sting can provide comfort and strength during times of suffering and loss, reminding believers of the eternal perspective.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the defeat of death through Christ's resurrection impact your daily life and perspective on mortality?

2. In what ways can the assurance of victory over death influence how you approach challenges and trials?

3. How can you live out the reality of the resurrection in your interactions with others and in your community?

4. What are some practical ways to remind yourself of the hope of eternal life in your daily routine?

5. How can the promise of victory over death encourage you to share your faith with others who may fear death or the unknown?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hosea 13:14
Paul echoes the language of this Old Testament prophecy, which speaks of God's promise to redeem His people from death.

Romans 6:9
This verse reinforces the idea that death no longer has dominion over Christ, and by extension, over those who are in Him.

Revelation 21:4
Describes the ultimate defeat of death, where God will wipe away every tear, and death will be no more.

Hebrews 2:14-15
Explains how Jesus shared in humanity to destroy the power of death and free those who were enslaved by the fear of death.