1 Corinthians 15:25

1 Corinthians 15:25

In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul is defending the core gospel truth of the resurrection and the reign of Christ. The phrase “For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet” sits within Paul’s outlining of a chronological sequence: Christ died, was buried, rose, then appeared; Christ is the firstfruits, and then comes the end when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule, every authority, and every power (1 Cor 15:20-28). The language of reigning and putting enemies under feet uses vivid imagery from ancient political and military speech. In the daily life of the Corinthian church—socially diverse, with Hellenistic philosophy blending in, and some skepticism about physical resurrection—Paul anchors hope in a real, future consummation: Jesus currently reigns as Messiah, defeating cosmic and moral foes, until all rebellion and death are fully conquered.

This verse foregrounds two essential themes: the lordship of Christ and the ultimate defeat of all opposition to God’s rule. Reign implies legitimate authority, protective care, and redemptive governance. The “enemies” include sin, death, and hostile powers. In Pauline thought, Jesus’ reign is not abstract; it’s inaugurated in the resurrection and will be consummated at the eschaton. The stanza reinforces the subordination of all rival powers under Christ, culminating in the unity of all things under God. It also guards against any gloss of eternal annihilation without accountability: enemies are not merely inconveniences but must be brought under his feet. The verse reassures believers that suffering, injustice, and mortality are not final; Christ’s rule is driving history toward a reconciled, renewed creation.

Christ’s present reign invites believers to live under his lordship here and now. Practically, this means aligning decisions, values, and aspirations with Christ’s kingdom purposes rather than cultural powers that oppose God. In households, workplaces, and churches, ask: What would it look like for Jesus to have the final say in this situation? It also offers hope amid trials: even “enemies” like injustice or chronic illness are being subdued. Christians can work for transformation—in relationships, social structures, and personal habits—trusting that rebellion and death are not the final word. In daily life, you can celebrate Christ’s sovereignty by choosing mercy, integrity, and courage in the face of pressure to compromise. Your prayers can reflect confidence that God is breaking the powers and that, in time, all things will be brought into subjection to Christ.

Cross-References: Romans 8:33-39; Colossians 1:15-20; Philippians 2:9-11; Ephesians 1:20-23; Revelation 11:15