| “But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.-” |
| —1 Corinthians 15:20-22- |
In Old Testament Jewish Law, the first fruits of any crop played an important role in the ceremonies that honored God. Just as the first born lamb represented the pure atoning sacrifice, so the first fruits from the ground were given a place of very special honor.
Whenever the designation “first fruits” is used in Scripture, it indicates that a special place of honor has been given. Thus, we need to take very special note when the Apostle Paul makes this startling reference, as recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:20-22:
But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.
The resurrection of Jesus made Him the “first fruits” of those who would rise from the dead and be transformed to eternal life. You see, others who had been raised from the dead eventually all died again. But, Jesus’ resurrection was a permanent transformation.
The sin of Adam cursed “first man” Adam and all his ancestors, including you and me, to eternal spiritual and physical death. The resurrection of Jesus broke that curse through the shedding of His precious blood and the coming into new life three days later. As we begin a new day, we can look to the resurrection as an assurance of our eternal salvation from sin and a glorious entrance into new eternal life.
Our hope rests solely and completely in Jesus. He is, indeed, the author and finisher of our faith. For those of us who believe in Him, we do, indeed, have the “first fruits” of the Resurrection: everlasting life.
Based on a blog originally posted on Monday, July 9, 2018
