People have always wondered what happens after we die. Paul is clear here that we will have new bodies. He’ll talk about that even more in his next letter to the Corinthians. Paul’s analogy was helpful, imagining the transformation of a seed into a flowering plant. The seed’s transformation is unexpected and beautiful, hard to imagine when looking only at the tiny seed. Likewise, how glorious our new bodies will be, free from sickness, disease, worry, and stress.
For those wondering about whether our pets go to heaven, verse 39 may shed some light on that. “Similarly there are different kinds of flesh—one kind for humans, another for animals, another for birds, and another for fish.” If our flesh is “similar” to a buried seed, then perhaps different kinds of flesh shall see their own transformation, animals included.
Paul talks about spiritual bodies, physical bodies, the glory of God, and other hard-to-comprehend concepts in this part of his letter. It’s comforting to know that even people in his day wanted to know what comes next. Yet our knowledge of our next steps is still a mystery we will all understand when our time comes. For now, Paul’s counsel tries to give us hope.
“What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever.” That makes total sense, doesn’t it? We take good care of our physical bodies while we’re alive on this planet because it is the temple of the Holy Spirit. We want to honor God with our bodies. Paul knew this and preached it. But we can’t take our bodies with us beyond this life. No matter how hard we try to care for them, they will pass away.
As believers, we’re promised an inheritance in the Kingdom of God. Paul’s teaching confirms that our future in the kingdom is fully claimed when we are finally transformed. Our mortal bodies are dying now, but our new, transformed bodies will be immortal, to live with God in eternity. Isn’t it great that God has a solution all worked out for when our earthly, mortal bodies stop living?
Paul wants to cover the bases, too, when he reminds us that if we haven’t died yet when the final moment comes, that’s okay. Our bodies will also be transformed even though they never die. Those who have already died will be raised first, but those still alive will not be forgotten and left behind. When Paul talks like this, it sounds like he believed Jesus’ return was coming soon.
We are still waiting for that day. We’re learning patience. What was Paul doing as he waited? Paul was already showing his gratitude. “But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.” The victory has already been won! We don’t have to wait to thank Jesus for his sacrifice on our behalf. We are forgiven and free now!
The encouragement Paul brings here seems almost like parting words. “So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” Again, we have Paul’s prescription for how we should be living as we wait for our bodies to one day be transformed. Are you feeling strong and unmovable? How are you working for the Lord enthusiastically?
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I am so looking forward to the day when my body is transformed so I can live forever with you. Until that day, Lord, please empower me to serve you. I want to feel your strength coursing through my veins. Please fill me to overflowing, igniting my enthusiasm. When I feel tired, give me the boost I need. May my earthly body honor you each moment you give me breath. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
