Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 15 - Verse 20

When the Bible talks about Christ being risen from the dead and becoming the firstfruits of those who have passed away, it is referring to the significance of Jesus' resurrection. In Jewish tradition, the firstfruits were the initial harvest of a crop that were dedicated to God as a way of acknowledging His provision and blessing. In the same way, Christ's resurrection is a sign of the new life that all believers can have in Him. By conquering death and rising again, Jesus paved the way for all who believe in Him to have eternal life. The resurrection is the most important event in the Christian faith, as it demonstrates God's power over sin and death, and offers hope for all who trust in Him. Jesus being the firstfruits means that His victory over death is a guarantee of resurrection for all who are in Him. This verse serves as a reminder of the hope and assurance that believers have in Christ's victory over death.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept," we can see how it ties into the broader theme of resurrection and redemption in Christian theology. The concept of Christ being the firstfruits of those who have died refers to the idea that his resurrection serves as a precursor or guarantee of the resurrection of all believers. In the Old Testament, the firstfruits were the initial portion of a harvest that was offered to God as an act of thanksgiving and dedication. In the context of Christ's resurrection, he is seen as the first to rise from the dead, paving the way for believers to follow in his footsteps. This verse highlights the central role that Christ's resurrection plays in the Christian faith, underscoring the belief in life after death and the hope of eternal salvation for all who believe in him.