The First Resurrection

Revelation 20:6  ‘Blessed and holy is he that has part in the first resurrection: on such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and  of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years’

The key word in this verse is resurrection, which in this case refers to ‘rising to life’ immediately prior to the seven-year tribulation period and other end times events.  As there is reference to the ‘first resurrection’, we can assume that there will be a second resurrection as well.  The first resurrection is for believers and occurs during the rapture or catching away of God’s people.  In 1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 we have a description of the first resurrection, and are told that the ‘dead in Christ shall rise first.’  All Christians who have died before the rapture will be raised from their graves or resting places, to be followed by the living believers, all of whom will meet the Lord in the air and shall ever be with Lord.  One of the greatest benefits of being part of the first resurrection is that the ‘second death’ has no power over Christians.  Another benefit is avoidance of the tribulation period, when there will be unimaginable suffering, persecution and death for those remaining on earth at that time.  The second death is the final judgement and condemnation of those who have refused to accept Jesus’ offer of salvation, and who appear before God after the second resurrection.  And the second death is the final separation from God with no hope of ever attaining eternal life in heaven.

After the first resurrection, Christians are blessed by becoming priests of God and will reign with him during the thousand year reign of Christ on earth.  And this is just a foretaste of spending eternity in the presence of God.  Although our imagination is incapable of understanding the true beauty and glory of heaven, we are assured it is a place without sin, sickness, death or any of the trials and tribulations of our earthly existence.  Which are just a few of the reasons why it is essential that we are ready to be part of the first resurrection.  As today’s verse says, only those who have been made ‘blessed and holy’ by the blood of Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit will be prepared to take part in the first resurrection.

Do YOU believe He’s coming back like He said?

Are YOU prepared for His return?

I Believe He’s Coming Back Like He Said..