A.T. Robertson Commentary 1 Corinthians 15:20

"But now hath Christ been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of them that are asleep." — 1 Corinthians 15:20 (ASV)

But now (νυν δε). Emphatic form of νυν with - added (cf. 12:18). It is the logical triumph of Paul after the reductio ad impossibile (Findlay) of the preceding argument.

The first-fruits (απαρχη). Old word from απαρχομα, to offer firstlings or first-fruits. In LXX for first-fruits. In papyri for legacy-duty, entrance-fee, and also first-fruits as here. See also verse 23; 16:15; Romans 8:23, etc. Christ is "first-born from the dead" (Colossians 1:18). Others raised from the dead died again, but not so Jesus.

That sleep (των κεκοιμημενων). Perfect middle participle as in Mt 27:52 which see. Beautiful picture of death from which word (κοιμαομα) comes our χεμετερψ.