Brethren, these verses point to a very specific time and a very specific group of individuals who have been called in an order only God Himself has already determined.
It is important that we take time in this sermon, the second day of God's holy Feast of Tabernacles, to remind ourselves why we are here. As Richard has been clearly teaching over the last couple of years, I think the main focus of the holy days is Jesus Christ.
Within that we need to fully appreciate the very special relationship that we have been called to have with Him now in order that we can fully appreciate the very special training that God is providing to a very carefully selected handful compared to all who will ever live.
That was the day when, once they were in the land, the nation waited until God was acknowledged with an offering of firstfruits before they started harvesting the barley. Deference to God came first. In the New Testament, Jesus is identified as “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” Once He was raised and accepted by the Father, then the spiritual work could begin. But He had to go first. And here we find a parallel with God going first. He went before Israel so they could make this journey of seven weeks.
Jesus is twice called the firstfruits, and specifically the firstfruits of those who have died and will be resurrected (see Acts 26:23). He is the first and best part of that harvest.
