What are the first and second resurrections in Revelation?
Revelation distinguishes two resurrections: the first is the resurrection of life, and the second is a resurrection under condemnation. Scripture indicates they do not occur simultaneously; instead, there are segments, each resurrected in their own time or order, as Paul confirms in 1 Corinthians 15.
Les explains that Jesus spoke as if both resurrections might happen simultaneously, but the rest of Scripture says no. There will be segments who are resurrected in their own time. Revelation calls the first resurrection the resurrection of life, while the second resurrection is a resurrection under condemnation. Paul in 1 Corinthians 15 says Christ is risen and become the firstfruits of them that slept, and that resurrection follows order—'every man in his own order'—a military term of organization, similar to Daniel standing in his lot at the end of the days.
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Why does Revelation speak of a first resurrection and a second resurrection?
Revelation speaks of a first and second resurrection because there are segments of people who will be resurrected in their own time.