Reflecting on the profound truth of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ and what it means for our lives is always beneficial. The resurrection is not merely a historical event; it is the cornerstone of our faith, the source of our hope, and the promise of our future glory. As we delve into the Word of God, let us be reminded of the transformative power of the resurrection and how it shapes every aspect of our existence.
In Luke 20:36, Jesus tells us that those who are considered worthy to attain to that age and to the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage. Instead, they will be like angels and will be children of God, being sons of the resurrection. This verse illuminates the eternal nature of our existence beyond this earthly life. Our perspective on life must be shaped by the certainty of the resurrection and the certainty of eternal existence. It was this promise, this posture, this prospect and this purpose that aided the early saints in the fieriest trials of their existence.
In John 11:25, Jesus declares, “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he dies, yet shall he live.” In this, Jesus finally answered Job’s question, posed in Job 14:14. These words assure us of the hope we have in Christ. He is not only the source of our resurrection but also the giver of eternal life to all who believe in Him. Through Him, we find meaning and purpose in this life and the assurance of life everlasting.
The apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15:12-13, 21, 42, emphasizes the centrality of the resurrection to the Christian faith. He argues that if Christ has not been raised, then our faith is futile, and we are still in our sins. However, Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, and through Him, we have victory over sin and death. Just as Christ was raised imperishable, so too shall we be raised imperishable, with glorified bodies fit for eternity.
Paul further expounds on the significance of the resurrection in Philippians 3:10-11, expressing his desire to know Christ and the power of His resurrection, sharing in His sufferings, and becoming like Him in His death, in order to attain to the resurrection from the dead. This passage challenges us to live in such a way that we embrace the transformative power of the resurrection, allowing it to shape our character and conform us to the image of Christ. Circumstances do not deface our demeanor nor depose our influence. Rather, the fact of Christ resurrection and the prospect of ours fuels the fires of faithfulness and endurance in the life of every Christian.
In 1 Peter 1:3, we are blessed with the assurance of a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. This living hope sustains us through trials and tribulations, knowing that our future is secure in Christ. As we face the challenges of life, let us cling to this hope, knowing that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work within us.
Revelation 20:6 speaks of the blessedness of those who share in the first resurrection, for they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with Him for a thousand years. This glimpse into the glory of believers underscores the ultimate triumph of the resurrection. It reminds us that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us, Romans 8:18.
Finally, in Romans 6:4-5, Paul teaches that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Our old self was crucified with Him in baptism, so that we might no longer be enslaved to sin but live in freedom and righteousness. The resurrection empowers us to live transformed lives, characterized by obedience to God and service to others.
In conclusion, life in light of the resurrection is a life marked by hope, purpose, and transformation. Let us, therefore, live each day with the confident assurance that Christ is risen and that we are called to share in His resurrection life (Matthew 5:13-16; Romans 8:31-39). May this truth permeate every aspect of our existence, guiding our thoughts, words, and actions, as we await the glorious day of His return.
If the Eastside Church of Christ can assist you in your efforts to know and please God, it would be an honor to hear from you. Listed below are links to our Facebook page and You Tube page. Avail yourself of both of these for learning and edification. God loves you and we do too.
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