“But in fact,
Christ has been raised
From the dead,
The first fruits
Of those who have died.”
Νυνὶ δὲ Χριστὸς ἐγήγερται ἐκ νεκρῶν, ἀπαρχὴ τῶν κεκοιμημένων.
Paul then responded that in fact (Νυνὶ δὲ), Christ (Χριστὸς) has been raised from the dead (ἐγήγερται ἐκ νεκρῶν), the first fruits (ἀπαρχὴ) of those who have died or fallen asleep (τῶν κεκοιμημένων). Paul then brought his thought to a close. Christ has been raised from the dead, pure and simple. He was the first fruits, like the ancient Israelite sacrifices. These first fruits were the first and best of the crop. Jesus Christ was the first of many who have died or fallen asleep, and had risen from the dead. The general resurrection would have the rest of us rise from the dead. What do you do with the first fruits of your harvest?
