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The phrase "firstborn from the dead" in Revelation 1:5 does not mean that Jesus was the first person ever to be resurrected. Instead, it emphasizes Jesus' unique and preeminent role in the resurrection. It signifies that Jesus, through His resurrection, holds a special status as the one who conquered death and inaugurated a new order of life.
Before Jesus, there were instances of individuals being raised from the dead, as seen in the Old Testament ( example is the story of Elijah raising the widow's son in 1 Kings 17:17-24. Although not a resurrection in the sense of receiving an immortal body, this event involves restoring life to someone who had died ) and during Jesus' ministry (example Lazarus, the widow's son at Nain). However, these resurrections were temporary, and those individuals would eventually experience physical death again.
Jesus' resurrection, on the other hand, was distinct. He was the first to be resurrected to eternal life, breaking the power of death once and for all. The idea is not that no one was resurrected before Jesus, but that His resurrection had a unique quality and significance, offering eternal life to all who believe in Him.
The faithful individuals mentioned in Hebrews 11, commonly known as the "Hall of Faith," are awaiting their final resurrection when Christ returns. The New Testament speaks of a future resurrection for believers, which will occur when Christ comes again (1 Corinthians 15:22-23 and 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17).
The concept of going to heaven after death is rooted in various religious traditions, and different scriptures contribute to these beliefs. In Christianity, the idea is often associated with passages like:
1. Jesus' Words in John 14:2-3 (NIV):
"My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."
2. Paul's Writing in 2 Corinthians 5:8 (NIV):
"We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord."
3. Philippians 1:23-24 (NIV):
"I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body."
These verses are often interpreted to suggest that believers will be in the presence of God or with Jesus in heaven after death.
These verses never mentioned specifically that we are going to heaven, but be in the presence of God or Jesus.
So, we look forward to being with Christ during His Second Coming—the Lord of lords and King of kings. The concept of going to heaven after death is rooted in religious traditions not scriptural based. The only logical reason for this fulfillment of the promise of eternal life and being in the presence of God is after Christ 2nd return!
By Bible Inspir
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