The majority of those who are resurrected will come back to an earth made peaceful under God’s Kingdom. (Ps. 37:10, 11, 29; Isa. 11:6-9; 35:5, 6; 65:21-23) However, other resurrections were to take place before that happens. First, Jesus Christ had to be resurrected to present the value of his sacrifice to God in our behalf. Jesus died and was resurrected in 33 C.E. Next, anointed members of “the Israel of God” must join the Lord Jesus Christ in heavenly glory, where they will “always be with the Lord.” (Gal. 6:16) That event is called “the earlier resurrection” or “the first resurrection.” (Phil. 3:10, 11; Rev. 20:6) When that resurrection is completed, the time will be at hand for millions to be resurrected back to the earth with the prospect of gaining everlasting life in Paradise. Hence, whether our hope is heavenly or earthly, we have a keen interest in “the first resurrection.” w07 1/1 2:4, 5
