the Resurrection and the New Creation

Scripture Focus: 1 Corinthians 15:20

“But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” (NIV)

Devotional Thought

Much of contemporary church theology looks to a time when we finally get to escape the chaos of this world. Resurrection is not about escaping earth — it is about God beginning something new right in the middle of the old.

Interpretation

Paul proclaims Christ as the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep, marking his resurrection as the pioneering event that inaugurates God's new creation for all who believe and respond in faith. In this pivotal verse, Paul contrasts Adam's legacy of death with Christ's victory over the grave, presenting Jesus' rising as the initial harvest guaranteeing a renewed humanity and cosmos where death is swallowed up in life. Paul is leaning into the imagery of the annual firstfruits offering, which was taken up on the day after Passover, the same day as Jesus’ resurrection. This offering was a promissory down payment of the annual harvest. Resurrection underscores God's inclusive offer of new covenant life through Christ’s down payment. It frames Christ's resurrection as the public vindication of his faithful obedience, defeating sin's power and opening transformative union with God for responsive believers in the unfolding new creation.

Contemporary Relevance

The resurrection means that decay, injustice, sickness, and death will not endure. It calls us to live as citizens of the coming Kingdom — hopeful, courageous, and committed to renewal. Every act of justice, compassion, or faithfulness participates in God’s future breaking into the present. In the midst of humanity's darkest hour, God pays the promissory down payment that guarantees resurrected life.

Quote of the Day

“God’s future has already begun in the resurrection of Jesus.” — Jurgen Moltmann

Reflection Question

How does the resurrection — and the promise of new creation — reshape the way you view your present struggles?

Prayer Prompt

Ask God to fill you with resurrection hope that transforms your perspective and your actions.

Copyright 2026 by Steven Chapman. Used by permission.