53. For this perishable [part of us] must put on the imperishable [nature], and this mortal [part of us, this nature that is capable of dying] must put on immortality (freedom from death).
54. And when this perishable puts on the imperishable and this that was capable of dying puts on freedom from death, then shall be fulfilled the Scripture that says, Death is swallowed up (utterly vanquished forever) in and unto victory. [Isa. 25:8.]
55. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting? [Hos. 13:14.]
56. Now sin is the sting of death, and sin exercises its power [upon the soul] through [the abuse of] the Law.
57. But thanks be to God, Who gives us the victory [making us conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be firm (steadfast), immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord [always being superior, excelling, doing more than enough in the service of the Lord], knowing and being continually aware that your labor in the Lord is not futile [it is never wasted or to no purpose].