1 Thessalonians 4:15

An Understandable Version (2005 edition)

For we say this to you by [the authority of] the word of the Lord [Note: Paul was either quoting what Jesus had previously said, or was giving a revelation he had received from the Lord. See I Cor. 14:37], that we [Christians] who are [still] alive, who are left [on earth] when the Lord returns, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. [Note: The point Paul is making is that the living will not be “changed” (I Cor. 15:51-52) and taken to heaven before the dead are raised].

Cross References

2 Corinthians 4:14

We know that God, who raised up the Lord Jesus [from the dead], will also raise us [apostles] up with Jesus and present us with you people [i.e., in the presence of the Father in heaven].

1 Thessalonians 2:19

For what is [the basis of] our hope, or joy, or crown of honor in the presence of the Lord Jesus when He comes back? [Note: By “crown” Paul alludes to the laurel wreath awarded to the victor in an athletic contest]. Will it not be you people?

Matthew 17:25

He replied, “Yes, [He does].” And when Peter entered the house, Jesus spoke to him first, [i.e., without waiting for Peter to tell Him what he had said to the tax collectors], saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do earthly kings collect custom duty and taxes? From their children or from strangers?”

1 Corinthians 15:18

Then [also], those who have died in [fellowship with] Christ are lost.

2 Corinthians 12:1

Although I must boast about myself [See 11:21-27], it [really] is not profitable. So, I will go on to [tell about] visions and [inspired] revelations given [to me] from the Lord.

Galatians 1:12

[Furthermore], I did not receive this [Gospel message] from any person, nor was I taught it [by anyone]. Instead, it came to me through [a divine] revelation from Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 4:13

But we want you to be informed, brothers, concerning those who have fallen asleep [in death] so that you do not grieve, as other people do [i.e., the unsaved], who have no hope.

1 Thessalonians 5:10

who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep [i.e., alive or dead], we could live together with Him.

2 Thessalonians 2:1

Now concerning the return of our Lord Jesus Christ, and our being gathered to Him, brothers,