The Resurrection of Jesus. Why is it such a big deal? For a simple reason — as Christians, we believe that Easter is the Focal Point of History. Picture a timeline with a cross in the center. The Bible tells us that every moment from Creation on has been leading up to the cross (as part of God’s eternal plan), and that every moment since is lived in light of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Easter broadcasts the news – Jesus is Alive!
So what impact does the resurrection of Jesus have for you today. I have discovered five results of the resurrection.
Because Jesus is alive…
1. You can experience HOPE that relieves your DOUBT.
Let’s face it. Somebody coming back to life is an incredible miracle – hard to believe. Even the disciples had doubts. But once they experienced the resurrection, all doubts were put aside. The living Jesus replaces doubt with hope.
Even today, we may have doubts. Unlike the disciples, we do not have an appearance of the risen Jesus. But we can still talk with Him in prayer and hear from Him in His Word. And He has promised that as we gather with other Christians, He will be right there with us. So, if you are having any doubts, allow Jesus to give you hope. Even if you doubt the existence of God or the validity of the resurrection of Jesus, give Him a chance.
2. You can experience GRACE that forgives your FAILURE.
The resurrection would be meaningless without the cross of Christ. Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead as proof of God’s acceptance of His sacrifice. The Apostle Peter failed the Lord the night He was betrayed. But following the resurrection, Jesus appeared to Him and forgave Him.
Whatever you have done to hurt yourself or others, it has hurt Jesus. But He died to forgive you of your sins. If you come to Him in repentance and seek His mercy, He will save your soul and forgive all your sins.
3. You can experience COURAGE that conquers your FEAR.
Following the crucifixion, the disciples locked themselves behind closed doors in fear. But following the resurrection, they went to the public areas and proclaimed Jesus as the Savior of the world. What happened? They experienced the resurrection of Jesus and it turned their fear to courage.
Sometimes we have fears in life. Strained relationships, poor health, financial difficulties, and death may cast a fearful shadow as we go through the valleys of life, but we have nothing to fear. The living Jesus will walk with us. Though we may not see Him in the dark, we can know He is with us.
4. You can experience LIFE that overcomes DEATH.
It may appear that death is the ultimate conquerer – the last enemy. But Jesus conquered death. He said, “I am the resurrection and the life – He that believes in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” Because Jesus conquered death, we do too.
The promise of eternal life is a great comfort to all who have experienced the death of a loved one in Jesus. Though their body may be laid in a cemetery, their soul and spirit are with Jesus. God gives all those who believe in Jesus eternal life. Death does not have the final word.
5. You can experience PURPOSE that replaces your EMPTINESS.
Following Jesus’ resurrection, He gave His disciples a purpose – spread the word about His death and resurrection. This is the Gospel. It is the only message that can change people for eternity.
People live for a lot of things – money, fame, self, family, or some other reason. One day all these will disappoint or dissolve. But all that is done for Jesus will last forever. Are you living for something that will last long after your not living?
If Jesus is alive, you have a choice to make…
— Believe in Jesus. Accept His claims. Submit to Him. Live under His daily direction. Receive the benefits of His death and resurrection. , or…
— Dismiss Jesus. Reject Him. Deny Him. Live only for yourself and under your own power.
Choose wisely.
You can read some of my other Easter articles: Love, Life & Hope, Grammatically Correct Easter, It’s Friday but Sunday’s Coming, Life After Easter
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