InstaStudy

Understanding the First Resurrection

A study exploring the biblical concept of the first resurrection, its participants, and its significance for believers.

1. The Nature of Resurrection

1.1 Resurrection as a Divine Act

Verses: John 5:21; John 6:40
  • Jesus, as God, possesses the inherent power to give life.
  • Resurrection is a spiritual and physical transformation initiated by divine power.

1.2 The Promise of a New Body

Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:42-44; Philippians 3:20-21
  • Our mortal bodies will be raised incorruptible and glorious.
  • We will receive a body fashioned like Christ's glorious body.

2. Who Participates in the First Resurrection?

2.1 The Righteous Dead in Christ

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:16; Revelation 20:6
  • Only those who have died in faith will be part of this resurrection.
  • They are called 'blessed and holy' and will reign with Christ.

2.2 The Living Saints at His Coming

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:17; 1 Corinthians 15:51-52
  • Those alive and faithful at Christ's return will be instantaneously transformed.
  • They will be caught up together with the resurrected saints to meet the Lord.

2.3 The Concept of 'Firstfruits'

Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:20; James 1:18
  • Christ is the firstfruits of the resurrection, guaranteeing ours.
  • Believers are a kind of firstfruits among His creation.

3. The Timing of the First Resurrection

3.1 At the Sound of the Trumpet

Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:52; 1 Thessalonians 4:16
  • The resurrection is a sudden, instantaneous event.
  • It coincides with the Lord's descent from heaven with a shout and the sound of a trumpet.

3.2 The Lord's Return for His Church

Verses: John 14:3; Hebrews 9:28
  • Jesus promised to come again to receive His followers to Himself.
  • He will appear a second time for salvation to those who eagerly await Him.

4. The Blessed Hope and Its Implications

4.1 Our Expectation of Christ's Return

Verses: Titus 2:13; 1 John 3:2-3
  • We eagerly await the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
  • When He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.

4.2 Comfort and Encouragement

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 4:18; John 14:1
  • This truth provides immense comfort to those who grieve the loss of loved ones in Christ.
  • Believers are encouraged not to let their hearts be troubled, trusting in God and in Jesus.

4.3 Motivation for Holy Living

Verses: 1 John 3:3; 2 Peter 3:11-14
  • Everyone who has this hope purifies himself, just as He is pure.
  • We should live in holiness and godliness, looking for new heavens and a new earth.

5. The Distinction from the Second Resurrection

5.1 Resurrection Unto Life vs. Resurrection Unto Judgment

Verses: John 5:28-29; Revelation 20:4-6
  • The Scriptures reveal two distinct resurrections.
  • The first is for the righteous unto life, the second for the unrighteous unto judgment.

5.2 The Millennium and the Great White Throne

Verses: Revelation 20:4; Revelation 20:11-15
  • Those in the first resurrection will reign with Christ for a thousand years.
  • The second resurrection leads to judgment before the Great White Throne.