1 Corinthians 15 v 51 – 58

Revised English Bible

Listen, I will unfold a mystery: we shall not all die, but we shall all be changed, in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet-call. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will rise imperishable, and we shall be changed.

This perishable body must be clothed with the imperishabe, and what is mortal with immortality. And when this perishable body has been clothed with the imperishable and our mortality has been clothed with immortality, then the saying of scripture will come true:

‘Death is swallowed up; victory is won.’ ‘O Death, where is your victory? O Death, where is your sting?’

The sting of death is sin, and sin gains its power from the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore my dear friends, stand firm and immovable, and work for the Lord always, work without limit, since you know that in the Lord your labour cannot be lost.

About This Reading

1 Corinthians 15 v 51–58 is a powerful Bible reading about resurrection, victory over death and the hope of eternal life. It is often chosen for Christian funerals because it speaks clearly of the belief that death is not the end. The words are strong and uplifting, offering reassurance that those who die in Christ will be raised and changed.

This reading may be especially suitable for a church funeral or a service led by a Christian minister. Its tone is more triumphant than gentle, so it can be a meaningful choice for families who want the service to express hope, faith and confidence in God’s promise of life beyond death.

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