Jesus is alive. He has risen, just as He said. (Matthew 28:6) For the Christian, the resurrection of Jesus is at the heart of what we believe and claim. Such a momentous event has great and mighty implications for the believer. What are they?
The resurrection of Jesus assures us that death will not be the end for us. Though we may die physically, we will never be separated from God. Christ resurrection persuades us that death has been defeated. Peter declared “But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power.” (Acts 2:24) As Christians, our death will be a passage to the very presence of Jesus. We know that to be absent from the body is to be at home with the Lord. (2nd Corinthian 5:6-8)
Jesus’ resurrection gives hope for a glorious future. Our ultimate hope does not rest on the shifting sands of this life’s events. Paul says it this way, If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. (1st Corinthians 15:9) Rather, our hope is in the Lord and in the future blessings He has promised. His resurrection proves that everything He said is true. Therefore, we have hope for heaven and hope for a new life after this earthly life is over.
The resurrection of Jesus gives us confidence to declare the Word of God. Paul’s confidence in the raising of Jesus allowed him to say And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. (1st Corinthians 15:14) The point is since Christ has been resurrected our preaching, teaching, and ministry is NOT in vain. We are to proclaim the truths of God’s Word with confidence that God’s Word always accomplishes God’s desires. (Isaiah 55:11)
May we all agree to live in the light of Christ’s resurrection? May we remember each day that His is risen—He has risen indeed!
mrtonyfrench 