1. A sample of what is to come (20-22)

At the time of harvest, the priests in the Old Testament took a sample of grains and presented them before the LORD for his blessing. The sample was a sign of the larger harvest to come and a preview of its quality. In the same way, the resurrected Christ is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep and a preview of what our resurrected bodies will be like. But how is this possible? We understand all too well how sin entered the world through one man. But the good news is that the resurrection comes through one man as well. We are made alive in Christ.

2. The sequence of events (23-28)

Paul goes on to share the order of the resurrection. Knowing how it will happen strengthens our faith and heightens our anticipation. Christ was the first to be raised from the dead. When Christ comes again, all of those who belong to him will be raised from the dead and he will reign on earth until all his enemies are destroyed, including death. The end will come when he hands over the kingdom to the Father and our salvation will be complete. We will not be resurrected to a world and life as we know it now. We will be resurrected to a new creation that is filled with the righteousness and holiness of God.