1 Corinthians 15:20-23 (WEL) But now Christ is risen from the dead and has become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For since death came by a man, by man also came the resurrection from the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ will all be made alive. 23 But everyone in their order, Christ (the first fruits of the harvest), afterwards those who are Christ’s at his coming.
V20 But now Christ is risen from the dead and has become the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep.
Jesus Christ’s resurrection is well tested by many witnesses and textual proofs. Consider: Who Moved the Stone by Frank Morrison (https://www.preceptaustin.org/who-moved-the-stone).
First fruits is the best of the best in harvest. Jesus is the first, foremost, and greatest of those with a permanent resurrection.
Praise God.
V21 For since death came by a man, by man also came the resurrection from the dead.
Death was the curse brought on the universe because of Adam’s sin, not Eve (Romans 5:12). Jesus is 100% God and 100% human male (XY). Adam’s sin brought the curse of decay, chaos, and death. Compared to Adam, Jesus’s holiness, sinlessness, and perfect obedience to God the Father is obvious. Jesus brought the resurrection. Romans 1:4 (WPNT) who was established to be God’s powerful Son (according to His spirit of holiness)5 by resurrection from the dead6—Jesus Christ our Lord.
Thus, we have our hope in Jesus.
V22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ will all be made alive.
All will be resurrected, some to eternal life and some to eternal torment (Daniel 12:2 and John 5:28-29).
Believers’ resurrection is to permanent life and blessings. See Luke 20:34-38, John 11:24-25, Romans 6:5, 1 Peter 1:3, and Revelation 20:6.
Non-believers’ resurrection is to permanent conscious torment and eternal curse. See Revelation 20:12-13.
Both are seen in Acts 24:15.
V23 But everyone in their order, Christ (the first fruits of the harvest), afterwards those who are Christ’s at his coming.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the first permanent resurrection that will never die. The resurrections in the Old Testament and New Testament are temporary; they would die as all humans. See 1 Kings 17:17-24 (OT) and Luke 7:11-15 and John 11:43-44 (NT).
We learn:
- The effects of Adam’s sin.
- The effects of Jesus’s resurrection.
Questions:
- Which resurrection will you experience, of the righteous or the unrighteous?
- Have you believed in Jesus Christ for salvation?