Verses 1-11 signal a return to theological argument based on common kerygmatic tradition (a la chs.1-4), reiterating the presence of death (vv3, 6, 8), introducing the theme of resurrection (vv4-8), and emphasising the necessity of divine grace (vv8-10)[1]. Verses 12-19 pick up the Corinthian denial of the resurrection of the dead as an effective “rendering vain” of this kerygma. Verses 20-28 demonstrate the essentiality of death and resurrection for Christ’s cosmic victory, a victory which awaits future divinely-timed consummation. Verses 29-34 stress that the conscious appropriation of death in the present assumes the futurity of resurrected vindication. Verses 35-49 demonstrate the way in which resurrection from death expresses dependence upon the life-giving power of God. Verses 50-57 draw to a finale the necessity of dependence upon God for the enablement of future human spirituality and immortality. Verse 58 gives a major ethical conclusion: This dependence upon God for future resurrected vindication enables present cruciform perseverance.
[1] Ignatius mimics Paul’s language here as a means of emphasising human unworthiness and divine mercy, in his Epistle to the Romans (9:1-2). Basil comments, “This is the perfect and consummate glory in God: not to exult in one’s own righteousness, but recognizing oneself as lacking true righteousness, to be justified by faith in Christ alone. Paul gloried in despising his own righteousness.” FC 9:479 in Bray (1999) p153.
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