Jesus the firstling

In this life, we run the risk of being persecuted for Christ. We give up the temporary treasures and joys of this world. If this life were everything we get, why should we give up something? If we give up everything for this one message that is not even true, we would rightly be ridiculed.

The gospel tells us that we have hope in Christ for a future life, because it depends on the resurrection of Jesus. Easter reminds us that Jesus came back to life - and He made us promise that we too will live again. If he had not risen, we would have no hope in this or future life. Jesus is truly risen, so we have hope.

Paul affirms the good news: “Christ has risen from the dead! He is the firstborn whom God raised. His resurrection assures us that those who have died in faith in Jesus will also rise.” (1 Kor 15,20).

In ancient Israel, the first grain harvested each year was carefully cut and offered to God in worship. Only then could the rest of the grain be eaten. (3 Mose 23, 10-14)When they offered God the sheaf of firstfruits, symbolized by Jesus, they acknowledged that all their grain was a gift from God. The offering of firstfruits represented the entire harvest.

Paul calls Jesus the firstfruits and says at the same time that Jesus is God's promise of a much greater harvest yet to come. He is the first to have risen from the dead and thus also represents those who will be resurrected. Our future depends on his resurrection. We follow him not only in his sufferings but also in his glory. (Röm 8,17).

Paul does not see us as isolated individuals - he sees us as belonging to a group. To which group? Will we be people who follow Adam or those who follow Jesus?

"Death came through a man," says Paul. In the same way, "the resurrection of the dead also comes through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." (1 Kor 15,21-22)Adam was the firstfruits of death; Jesus was the firstfruits of the resurrection. If we are in Adam, we share his death with him. If we are in Christ, we share his resurrection and eternal life with him.

The gospel says that all believers in Christ will come to life. This is not just a temporary benefit in this life—we will enjoy it for eternity. “One at a time: Christ is the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.” (1 Kor 15,23)Just as Jesus rose from the grave, we too will rise to a new and incredibly better life. We rejoice! Christ is risen, and we with him!

by Michael Morrison