Because Christ Has Been Raised

Scripture

“But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.”—1 Corinthians 15:20 ESV

Devotional

The resurrection is not an inspiring conclusion added to the gospel. Paul says that if Christ has not been raised, our faith is futile and we are still in our sins. Everything Christianity promises rests on the reality that the crucified Jesus walked out of the grave. His resurrection declares that sin has been dealt with, death has been defeated, and the Father has accepted the saving work of His Son.

Paul calls Jesus the “firstfruits” because His resurrection is the beginning of something much larger. In Israel, the firstfruits of a harvest were the first portion of what was still to come. Christ’s risen body is therefore God’s pledge concerning our future. Those who belong to Jesus will also be raised. Our Christian hope is ultimately more than surviving death or escaping this world; it is resurrection life with Christ in God’s restored creation.

That future changes how we live in the present. Our bodies matter. Faithfulness matters. Suffering does not receive the final word, and even death cannot undo what Christ has secured. Because Jesus lives, every part of our lives can be entrusted to Him with confidence. The risen Christ is both the guarantee of what is coming and the living Savior who is with us now.

Reflection Question

How would your perspective on something difficult in your present life change if you viewed it through the certainty of Christ’s resurrection and your promised resurrection with Him?

Guided Prayer

Risen Jesus, You have conquered the grave and become the firstfruits of the resurrection to come. Anchor my hope in what You have accomplished rather than in what I can presently see. When suffering, uncertainty, or loss feels final, remind me that death itself has already been defeated. Teach me to live today in the light of the life You have promised, confident that because You live, I will live with You. Amen.