Death Is Swallowed Up Unto Victory

“When this corruptible has put on incorruption, and this mortal has put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written: ‘Death is swallowed up unto victory.’” 1 Cor. 15:54.

The expression “swallowed up unto victory” is very unclear, even misleading—even to the point of contradicting the very meaning of this scripture. It is theological language and isn’t even common Norwegian. In Greek as well as in other language translations it is written “swallowed up in victory.”

Jesus was victorious on the cross, and from that time on, victory has marched on throughout ages and generations until this day and is advancing by means of everyone who believes, for they are victorious through Him. Therefore Paul says, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” We have entered into the victory on Calvary. This victory advances steadily, and the faithful ones keep up the pace. They learn to be victorious. They are victorious over sin; they overcome the world. If they encounter something in their life that is wrong (for example, irritability, a hot temper), this can be swallowed up in victory.

We can take a look at the battlefield, how the English, the French, and the Americans go from victory to victory. If they meet resistance from German troops in the various places, they are swallowed up in the same victory. This is how we can advance in victory: one fortification after another is stormed; wherever we meet sin and self-life, it is swallowed up in victory. “Swallowed up in victory” is translated as “consumed in victory” in a German translation. Therefore we can safely go on the attack. Also the last enemy fortification, death, will be swallowed up in the same victory march.

That which is so precious is that we are part of this and are victorious. For Paul says right after, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” V. 57.

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” V. 58.

Aksel Smith