2 Corinthians 4:14

Raised up the Lord. As Paul had already explained to the Corinthians at length (see 1 Cor. 15:13–23), the resurrection of Jesus stood as an absolute guarantee of the eventual resurrection of all the righteous.

Raise up us. It is Paul’s confident hope of the resurrection that enables him to face death with calm and courage. He has already experienced a spiritual resurrection with Christ (Rom. 6:4), and this is his assurance of future triumph over death. He is sure of eternal life (Rom. 8:11; 1 Cor. 15:12–22; 2 Tim. 4:8).

By Jesus. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “with Jesus.” Paul refers to the resurrection of our Lord. He feels that his own resurrection is fully as certain. Jesus was raised up as the first of a redeemed race (Rev. 1:5), which would include all of the apostle’s converts (1 Cor. 15:20). Furthermore, it is Christ who will bring the dead to life at the last day (John 5:25–29).

Present us. Perhaps the greatest moment of joy for those who triumph with Christ will be their presentation before God the Father. Paul anticipates with pride presenting his converts to Christ (ch. 11:2). The Scriptures refer several times to Christians being presented, or simply being present, before God. They appear before Christ at His judgment seat, for vindication and justification (Rom. 14:10–12; 2 Cor. 5:10). They will be presented before God at the marriage supper of the Lamb, as the bride of the Lamb (Rev. 19:7–9), and will dwell in His presence (ch. 21:3).

It may be noted in passing that the language of this verse seems to intimate that Paul expected to die before the return of his Lord, and to have a part in the resurrection.