The Firstfruits of the Dead

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, Jesus is better 2. In his resurrection, Jesus is new 3. In his resurrection, Jesus is our hope