The Resurrection of Christ and Our Hope
1 Corinthians 15:20-28
In this passage, Paul explains the significance of Christ's resurrection and its implications for believers.
The Firstfruits of Those Who Have Fallen Asleep
20 But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.
Paul emphasizes that Christ's resurrection is not just a historical event, but it has implications for all believers. The phrase "firstfruits" is significant, as it indicates that Christ is the beginning of a new harvest, and we will follow in His footsteps.
The Order of Resurrection
21 For since by man came death, by man also came the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, after that those who are Christ's at His coming.
Paul highlights the parallel between Adam, who brought death into the world, and Christ, who brings resurrection and life. Just as all humanity is affected by Adam's sin, all believers will be made alive in Christ. The phrase "each in his own order" suggests that there is a sequence to the resurrection, with Christ being the first and believers following.
The Victory Over Death and Sin
24 Then comes the end, when He hands over the kingdom to the God and Father, when He has abolished all rule and all authority and power. 25 For He must reign until He has put all His enemies under His feet. 26 The last enemy that will be abolished is death.
Paul describes the ultimate victory of Christ over death and sin. The phrase "until He has put all His enemies under His feet" is a quote from Psalm 110:1, emphasizing Christ's exaltation and dominion over all. The final enemy to be abolished is death itself, which will be defeated when Christ returns.
The Conclusion: God is All in All
27 For He has put all things in subjection under His feet. But when it says, "All things are put in subjection," it is evident that He is excepted who put all things in subjection to Him. 28 When all things are subjected to Him, then the Son Himself also will be subjected to the One who subjected all things to Him, so that God may be all in all.
Paul concludes by stating that God will ultimately be "all in all," indicating that He will be the sole ruler and authority in the universe. This passage highlights the significance of Christ's resurrection and its implications for believers, emphasizing the ultimate victory of Christ over death and sin.
