THE RESSURECTION
He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed! – 1 Corinthians 15:20 (mp3) Introduction The idea of “firstfruits” is lost on many. An agricultural reference, it refers to the offering usually given during the first part of the harvest – but it means much more than that. The firstfruits were not just fruits, but the best of the produce of the land, given to God as an indication that all of it belonged to him, to secure his blessing on the rest of the harvest. When Paul calls Christ the “firstfruits” he has all of this in mind, and likely more. What, then, does this term add to our understanding of Jesus’ resurrection? 1. In his resurrection, Christ is preeminent Christ is the firstfruits because he is the best of the bunch; he is perfect without spot or blemish. Our resurrection is “like” his, but it is not his. Jesus was, and is, the best of humanity. He is more glorious, more awesome, than anyone who has ever been or ever will be. He is the firstfruits to God because he is simply gre...