Which passage calls the believers' resurrection the first resurrection?

• A. John 5:24-29
• B. Mark 9:43-48
• C. Matthew 5:29-30
• D. Revelation 20:4-6

Answer: (D)

This question hinges on identifying where the phrase “the first resurrection” is used and what it refers to for believers. In Revelation 20:4-6, John describes those who had been faithful to Christ—martyrs and others who held fast to the testimony—coming to life and reigning with Christ for a thousand years. The text then explicitly calls this group “blessed and holy” and says they share in the first resurrection. It also distinguishes that the rest of the dead do not come to life until the thousand years are ended, signaling a two-stage sequence of resurrection. Because of that explicit designation, this passage is the one that calls the believers’ resurrection the first resurrection.

The other passages discuss resurrection or judgment in general terms but do not name or describe a “first resurrection” for believers in the same explicit way.