1 Corinthians 15:27 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 15:27 mean?

1 Corinthians 15:27 says that God has given authority over everything to Christ, putting all things “under his feet.” However, when the verse says “all things,” it is clear that God Himself, who gave this authority, is not included as being under Christ. The verse is explaining that Christ’s rule is complete, but God the Father remains above all.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining the resurrection and Christ’s ultimate victory over every power and authority. He clarifies that while Christ has authority over all creation, God the Father is the one who gave this authority and is not subject to Christ. This helps the Corinthians understand the relationship between God the Father and Jesus in the context of Christ’s final victory.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 15:27

• ὑπέταξεν (hupetaxen, “put under”): This word means to subject or place in submission. It emphasizes that Christ’s authority is not just symbolic but involves real dominion over all things.
• ἐξαίρετός (exairetos, “excepted”): This word means “excluded” or “excepted.” Paul uses it to make it clear that God the Father is not included in the “all things” put under Christ.
• φανερόν (phaneron, “manifest”): This word means “obvious” or “clear.” Paul is stressing that it should be obvious to the reader that God is not subject to Christ, even though everything else is.

Why 1 Corinthians 15:27 matters

• This verse clears up a possible misunderstanding that Christ’s authority over “all things” might include God the Father; Paul makes it clear that is not the case.
• It highlights the distinction and relationship between God the Father and Christ, especially in the context of the resurrection and the end times.
• The verse connects to the larger passage where Paul is explaining the order and purpose of Christ’s reign, showing that Christ’s victory is part of God’s greater plan.