"Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, death, is your victory? Where, death, is your sting? Now the sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the Law. But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Corinthians 15:54c-56As we increase in years, it begins to get to you. Been thinking of it in terms of words from that great hymn "Abide With Me": "Change and decay in all around I see." One begins to feel death's heavy hand smothering out lots of friends, loved ones, pets, etc. World is bombarded with natural disasters and in cruelties all around. Death and decay seem to be winning.
BUT, Paul inspired of the Holy Spirit retorts, that is not the final outcome. Death loses! Yes, the law has been broken and physical death, separation of the body and soul is the price for each sinner to pay. BUT, the Christian does not die in sin, but all sin has been absolved in and by Christ. Thus, death is but the portal to eternal life in heaven in a resurrected body!
The uncomfortableness we feel about death now is this price for sin, but we who believe in Christ's victory for us in the cross and resurrection will experience this victory personally over sin, death and devil when we will be raised "incorruptible, clothed with immortality!"
And so? "So, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Cor. 15:58
