Raised According to the Scriptures

1 Corinthians 15:20–22
“But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead.”

Paul does not speak of the resurrection with hesitation or poetry alone—he speaks with certainty. “But now is Christ risen.” This is not speculation. It is declaration. The resurrection is not a theological add-on; it is the hinge upon which redemption turns.

Paul calls Christ the “firstfruits.” This language is rich and deliberate. Firstfruits were not symbolic—they were guarantees. The first harvest proved more was coming. Christ’s resurrection is not an isolated miracle; it is the beginning of a redeemed future for all who belong to Him.

The resurrection also restores moral clarity. Death entered through Adam—through sin and rebellion. Resurrection comes through Christ—through obedience and righteousness. The Gospel does not minimize the fall; it answers it completely.

This truth secures hope beyond emotion. Resurrection joy is not optimism—it is certainty. Because Christ lives, death has been redefined. The grave is no longer a destination; it is a doorway.

Paul’s emphasis reminds us that the resurrection was always part of God’s plan. It happened “according to the Scriptures.” God’s promises did not fail at the cross—they were fulfilled through the empty tomb.

For weary believers, this matters deeply. Faith is not sustained by feelings alone. Resurrection hope rests on historical, scriptural, and eternal truth. Christ lives—and therefore, our future is secure.

April calls us to stand on this foundation. The resurrection is not seasonal. It is the cornerstone of Christian confidence. Christ is risen—and because He is firstfruits, we will follow.