The importance of Christ's resurrection

Introduction

I. Authenticates our faith

1. Why?

a) because it is a historical fact confirmed by eye witnesses (first twelve and then 500)

However, there are theories made up to deny the resurrection: hallucinate, Jesus passed out, disciples stole the tomb.

Furthermore, if atheists don’t deny historical fact, they ignore them and ridicule believers by saying that they believe in afterlife just to escape the hardships of life. For example Quote: Religious suffering is, at one and the same time, the expression of real suffering and a protest against real suffering. Religion is the sigh of the oppressed creature, the heart of a heartless world, and the soul of soulless conditions. It is the opium of the people.

But The christian faith It is not a way of escaping reality or of sugarcoating the cruelties of life because it is not rooted in how it makes us feel (Marx thinks that religion comes from the desire to escape negative feelings much like a junkie does with drugs), but it is rooted in historical facts. Therefore, our faith is real not because I said, not because you feel it, not because you see signs and wonders, but because Jesus Christ rose from the dead.

b) because it is the fulfilment of old testament prophecies (Because the Bible says so).

Psalm 16:10 For you will not abandon me to Sheol; you will not allow your faithful one to see decay.

The Scriptures testify about Christ death and resurrection.

II. Brings us hope of resurrection

Why?

a) because Christ’s resurrection makes possible my resurrection. How? (v17-22) By being joined to him in spiritual union (v.17) And I am one with him. And everything he has done or is will become mine so that if he is a Son, then I am a son. If he conquered death then I will conquer death.

How? (v.36-44)

a) God will give us a spiritual body which is more powerful than this body, more beautiful, and of a better quality.

Why is it important?

a) because without the hope of eternal life we will live for this present life (v.32), and If we put our faith in Christ for this world we should be pitied more than anyone (and we are v.19)

b) without the hope we will not love and sacrifice (v. 32a)

III. Confirms Christ’s forgiveness of sins

a) Assurance that Christ’s blood covered our sin and therefore we have boldness to talk to God

b) Prayer is not just meditation is a conversation with a living God.

a) because it is not just a theoretical belief, but a powerful faith that works.

The truth of God that gives freedom and sets people free from sins, sorrows, self-destruction and Satan.

Conclusion