I Corinthians 15:20-25

As I said, this is a pretty obvious example here of how Paul gives us the type and the anti-type. Specifically, he speaks to us about the anti-type and gives us a description of Him that is the type. So Paul lays out here the type is the firstfruits of the harvest, and the anti-type is Christ's resurrection as the first and epitome of God's spiritual harvest. He says very plainly: Each one in his own order (this is verse 23), Christ the firstfruits. It is simply put, something everybody knows, right? It is amazing how many people do not understand even something simply put like that. Christ the firstfruits.

But in saying this, he tells us very plainly as well that there is more to the story more than meets the eye here. He not only tells us Christ is the firstfruits, but then he more than hints at the fact that others will follow. Because right after he says "Christ the firstfruits," then he says, "afterward those who are Christ's at His coming." There is more to this than just Christ as the firstfruits. There are others that are going to follow. And this is true because Christ successfully fulfilled the type of the firstfruit of the harvest. And then others whom God calls and chooses can be resurrected to spirit and to glory as well, in His image, as a firstfruit.

I Corinthians 15:22-26

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.

I Corinthians 15:20-23

Similarly, it is true that the Wavesheaf was held up for acceptance by God, which Christ certainly was. However, the New Testament uses the symbol of Christ as the Wavesheaf in a different way:

Wavesheaf, the Firstfruits, has to do with the promise of resurrection—of life after death. Christ became the Firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. Just as He was raised up, so also those who belong to Him will also be raised up, not to mortal life, but to eternal life.