The Corinthian congregation faced numerous challenges, many outlined in Paul’s First Corinthians epistle. Among their doctrinal concerns was the belief that there would be no resurrection of the human body, a matter addressed by Paul in the fifteenth chapter.
Paul reproached those who denied the resurrection with the question, “How say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead [plural, ‘dead ones’]?” (v. 12). He argued that this denial undermined the core of the Christian faith, emphasizing that the resurrection of Jesus himself was fundamental (v. 13ff).
In discussing the resurrection, Paul introduced the phrase “Then comes the end” (v. 24). The subsequent question arises: the end of what?
The immediate context suggests the conclusion of Christ’s current Messianic reign, corresponding to his supreme authority over the present kingdom (Eph. 1:20ff), identified as the church (Mt. 16:18–19). After this, Christ would surrender his authority to God and submit to the heavenly Father (1 Cor. 15:28).
Contrary to the idea of a future earthly millennium, Paul affirms that Christ’s present reign would cease at “his coming” (v. 23). Additionally, the text explores other things that will conclude at the Lord’s return.
One aspect is the end of time and the material universe. Time, defined from the beginning of the material universe to the second coming of Christ, will cease, and human existence will transition into eternity, either in Heaven or Hell (Mt. 25:46).
The narrative challenges the notion that the earth will endure forever by explaining that “forever” (Hebrew olam) doesn’t always imply endless existence. The passage argues against a literal eternity for physical things.
The end of human rebellion is also addressed. Human defiance, present since Adam and Eve, will cease at the Savior’s return. The wicked will acknowledge their unfaithfulness, but for many, conversion will be too late (2 Thes. 1:7–9).
The text further discusses the end of suffering and death, promising relief from physical and mental maladies through Christ’s victory over the last enemy, “death” (1 Cor. 15:26; Rev. 21:4).
The narrative concludes by discussing the end of theological error, warning against false doctrines, and emphasizing the importance of adhering to divine truth. The text dismisses the idea of a postmortem redemption opportunity, asserting that preparation for salvation must be made personally in the present.
In summary, while the kingdom of God is eternal, the passage in 1 Corinthians 15:24 addresses the end of Christ’s current redemptive reign, not the ultimate heavenly kingdom’s eternal nature.
