OUR FAITH NOT IN VAIN.
1 Corinthians 15:12-20.
Despite the fact that the Corinthians had earlier embraced Paul's teaching, the Apostle was aware that other influences were disturbing their peace. There were even some amongst them who denied the fact of resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:12). Perhaps the Corinthians were keeping company with some Sadducees, who denied the resurrection (Luke 20:27); or perhaps with some Greek philosophers, who doubted it (Acts 17:32).
Without the resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is no gospel at all (1 Corinthians 15:12-13), and we are of all men most vain and miserable (1 Corinthians 15:14-19).
Thankfully, we are reminded with a sigh of relief, Christ is risen from the dead. He is risen indeed. As such He is the firstfruits from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:20).
The Feast of the firstfruits was celebrated the day after the Sabbath after the Passover, and no further atoning sacrifice was necessary because the Passover lamb had just been sacrificed. In Greek, the idea of firstfruits carried the idea of His having paid our entrance fee. Jesus is the firstfruits, the first sheaf offered in anticipation of the full harvest, the first resurrected as the forerunner of our own resurrection.
