Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Corinthians 15:23

"But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; then they that are Christ`s, at his coming." — 1 Corinthians 15:23 (ASV)

The expression “each in his own turn” stresses the different times involved: Christ the “firstfruits” was made alive three days after his death; the other group, those who belong to Christ, will be made alive “when he comes” (parousia; GK 4242). This term refers here to Christ’s second coming at the rapture (cf. Matthew 24:27; 1 Thessalonians 4:13–17).