The concept of resurrection is a central tenet in Christian theology, reflecting the hope of eternal life and the ultimate victory over death. The Bible outlines a specific order to the resurrection, which is pivotal to understanding eschatological events and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan.

1. The Resurrection of Christ

The resurrection order begins with Jesus Christ, who is described as the "firstfruits" of those who have fallen asleep. In 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 , the Apostle Paul writes, "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive. But each in his own turn: Christ the firstfruits; then at His coming, those who belong to Him."

Christ's resurrection is foundational, serving as the guarantee and model for the future resurrection of believers. His victory over death is the cornerstone of Christian faith, affirming His divine nature and the efficacy of His atoning work.

2. The Resurrection of Believers

The next phase in the order of resurrection involves those who belong to Christ, which will occur at His second coming. This event is often referred to as the "rapture" or the "resurrection of the just." In 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 , Paul provides a vivid description: "For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a loud command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will be the first to rise. After that, we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord."

This resurrection is characterized by the transformation of believers' bodies into glorified, imperishable forms, as further explained in 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 : "Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in an instant, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed."

3. The Resurrection of the Unjust

Following the resurrection of believers, Scripture indicates a future resurrection of the unjust, which will occur after the millennial reign of Christ. This is often associated with the Great White Throne Judgment, as depicted in Revelation 20:11-15 . Here, the dead who did not partake in the first resurrection are judged according to their deeds: "Then I saw a great white throne and Him who was seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books."

This resurrection leads to the final judgment, where those not found in the book of life face eternal separation from God.

4. Theological Implications

The order of resurrection underscores the hope and assurance of eternal life for believers, rooted in the resurrection of Christ. It also highlights the justice and sovereignty of God in the final judgment. The resurrection serves as a pivotal event in God's redemptive history, affirming the ultimate restoration and renewal of creation. Through the resurrection, believers are assured of their future inheritance and the fulfillment of God's promises.