The First Resurrection

Returning now to those who "came to life and ruled as kings with the Christ," John writes: "This is the first resurrection." (Revelation 20:5b) How is it first? It is "the first resurrection" as to time, for the ones who experience it are a "first fruits to God and to the Lamb.' (Revelation 14:4) It is also first in importance, since those who share in it become rulers with Jesus in his heavenly Kingdom and judge for the rest of mankind. Finally, it is first in quality. Apart from Jesus Christ himself, those raised in the first resurrection are the only creatures spoken of in the Bible as receiving immorality. - 1 Corinthians 15:53; 1 Timothy 6:16.

What a blessed prospect for these anointed ones! As John declares: "Happy and holy is anyone having part in the first resurrection; over these the second death has no authority." (Revelation 20:6a) As Jesus promised the Christians in Smyrna,m these conquerors that share in "the first resurrection" will be in no danger of harm by "the second death," which means annihilation, destruction without hope of a resurrection. (Revelation 2:11; 20:14) the second death has "no authority" over such conquerors, for they will have put on incorruption and immortality. -1 Corinthians 15:53.

How different from earth's kings during Satan's tenure of authority! These have ruled at most for a mere 50to 60 years, and the great majority for just a few years. Many of them have oppressed mankind. In any case, how could the nations benefit permanently under ever-changing rulers with ever-changing policies? In contrast, John says of earth's new rulers: "But they will be priests of God and of the Christ, and will rule as kings with him for the thousand years." (Revelation 20:6b) With Jesus, they will form the sole government for a thousand years. Their priestly service, in apply the merit of Jesus' perfect human sacrifice, will life obedient humans to spiritual, moral and physical perfection. their kingly service will result in building a global human society that reflects Jehovah's righteousness and holiness. As judges for a thousand years, they, with Jesus, will lovingly guide responsive humans toward the goal of everlasting life. -John 3:16.

Next time: The Final Test

Revelation Its Grand Climax At Hand! Watchtower Bible And Tract Society, 1988