Saturday, March 29, 2008
1 Corinthians 15:20-22 But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.
SIGNS OF THE RESURRECTION: DEATH IS DEFEATED
Our final sign is different from the rest. So far the signs we have considered have been assurances of Christ's resurrection from the dead. But here we have Christ's resurrection (which has been so clearly attested to) as a sign of something else. Here Christ's resurrection is a sign -- an assurance -- of the defeat of death.
Death was certain because of sin. But because of Christ's victory over death we are assured of life! We need not fear -- death has been defeated!
Paul calls Jesus the "firstfruits" of those who have died in Christ. The firstfruits were the first part of the harvest which was given to the LORD before the full harvest had been brought in. Christ's resurrection from the dead is just the beginning of resurrections. He is the firstfruits of all believers in Christ who, like Him, will also be made alive and glorified at His coming. Christ's resurrection on that first Easter morning was just the first of many!
May these signs confirm your faith in Christ's resurrection from the dead and assure you of the hope of eternal life in heaven!
Death is swallowed up in victory; sin has lost its poison sting.
Life will blossom from the grain soon, Christ the firstfruits of the spring.
For the sureness of salvation let us sing, "Thanks be to God!"
Christ is risen! We are living! Spread the word of grace abroad.
(Worship Supplement 2000, 728:3)
