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This is part of a series of posts based on the Churches Together in England publication one light: one world. If you click on the link you will find the biblical texts. This post of the same name covers the purpose of this series.
1 Corinthians 15: 24 - 28
This is a passage about Oikoumene, the final reconciliation of all things to God. Let's take note of a few things about it.
First, it is about the destruction of every ruler, authority and power. Paul understands that oppression is not only physical; it has a spiritual dimension. Our fear of death, enables rulers to oppress us or recruit us to oppression. They are not loving fathers, whatever their self-image might be, but people who thrive on fear. They are driven by their own fear and fueled by others fear of them.
Second, it is hard not to read this passage as about the ultimate end of the universe. Indeed, it is not wrong so to read it. But we need to remember that if God has said it is so, it is so. Thus we need to read it as true now; we can live as if it is true!
Paul's ironic style would have been understood by the churches he wrote to because their experience was of the rule of Rome. Today, after centuries of Christianity as the continuation of Roman rule (I refer to all institutional religion, not just Catholics), we tend to read him literally. This passage is about liberty. To love God is not to be subject to Rome (or any other power or authority). We can achieve that in our own lifetime whilst at the same time look forward to when all things will be subject to God and so free of oppression.
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