1 Corinthians 15:23

But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.

But {G1161} every man {G1538} in {G1722} his own {G2398} order {G5001}: Christ {G5547} the firstfruits {G536}; afterward {G1899} they that are {G3588} Christ's {G5547} at {G1722} his {G846} coming {G3952}.

But each in his own order: the Messiah is the firstfruits; then those who belong to the Messiah, at the time of his coming;

But each in his own turn: Christ the firstfruits; then at His coming, those who belong to Him.

But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; then they that are Christ’s, at his coming.

1 Corinthians 15:23 is a pivotal verse in Paul's powerful discourse on the resurrection, establishing the divine order of this foundational Christian truth. It assures believers of their future resurrection by linking it directly to Christ's own victory over death.

Context

This verse is found within 1 Corinthians chapter 15, often called the "resurrection chapter," where the Apostle Paul vigorously defends and explains the doctrine of the bodily resurrection. Some in the Corinthian church were denying or questioning the future resurrection of believers. Paul first establishes the historical reality of Christ's death and resurrection as the cornerstone of the Gospel, arguing that if Christ was not raised, then Christian faith is futile. Having affirmed Christ's resurrection in verses like 1 Corinthians 15:20, he then proceeds to clarify the sequence of future resurrections.

Key Themes

  • The Order of Resurrection: The phrase "every man in his own order" (Greek: tagma, meaning a division, proper sequence, or military rank) highlights that resurrection is not a chaotic event but a divinely ordained process. There is a precise, pre-determined procession.
  • Christ the Firstfruits: Jesus' resurrection is presented as the "firstfruits" (Greek: aparche). In ancient Israel, the first portion of the harvest was offered to God as a pledge and guarantee that the rest of the harvest would follow. In the same way, Christ's resurrection is not merely an isolated event but the assurance and pattern for the resurrection of all who belong to Him. He is the pioneer, paving the way for His followers.
  • The Future Resurrection of Believers: The verse explicitly states that "afterward they that are Christ's at his coming" will be raised. This refers to all who have placed their faith in Jesus Christ, both those who have died and those who are alive at the time of His return. This promise provides immense hope and comfort to believers across generations.
  • The Second Coming of Christ: The resurrection of believers is directly tied to "his coming" (Greek: parousia), referring to the glorious return of Jesus Christ. This event is central to Christian eschatology and is the moment when believers will receive their glorified bodies. For more on this event, consider 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17.

Practical Application

1 Corinthians 15:23 offers profound assurance and shapes the Christian worldview. It solidifies the certainty of a future bodily resurrection for all believers, transforming the fear of death into a confident expectation of life. Knowing that Christ is the "firstfruits" means our future is secure because His resurrection guarantees ours. This truth encourages believers to live with hope, perseverance, and a heavenly perspective, understanding that our present sufferings are temporary compared to the eternal glory that awaits us at Christ's glorious return.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 3:29

    And if ye [be] Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.

  • Isaiah 26:19

    Thy dead [men] shall live, [together with] my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew [is as] the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:52

    In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:20

    ¶ But now is Christ risen from the dead, [and] become the firstfruits of them that slept.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:7

    ¶ Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ's, even so [are] we Christ's.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:19

    For what [is] our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? [Are] not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

  • Galatians 5:24

    And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
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