The transformation of our bodies will take place in a moment,
that is, in the shortest timespan imaginable. Paul uses the Greek word atomos, from which our word atom
is derived. The word signifies something so small that it cannot be divided further. The phrase twinkling of the eye
confirms that the transformation of our bodies will be an instant transformation.
In Revelation 8—11 we read of seven trumpets blown by seven angels. Each trumpet announces an important moment in God’s work of redemption. The revelation that God had given to Paul also includes the blowing of a trumpet – the last trumpet.
This trumpet will sound at Christ’s return (see also 1 Thessalonians 4:16).
The phrase we shall be changed
is basically a repetition of the last phrase of 1 Corinthians 15:51. From 1 Corinthians 15:51 we know that Paul is referring to all believers, whether dead or alive. Even those who have died long ago will be changed. They will not receive completely new bodies (this would contradict Paul’s analogy of a seed that grows into a plant, 1 Corinthians 15:36–38, 1 Corinthians 15:43–44). Rather, their old bodies will somehow be transformed into new, heavenly bodies.
52 in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed.