The Dawn of Resurrection Hope

Introduction

Good morning, as the sun rises we gather to celebrate the greatest dawn in history—the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the quiet of this moment, we stand on holy ground, for the empty tomb declares that death is defeated, sin is conquered, and our Savior reigns. Today, we’ll reflect on what this means for us, as those redeemed by God’s sovereign grace, and how it calls us to live in the light of eternity.

1 Corinthians 15:12–22 ESV

Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive.

The Resurrection as Our Sure Hope

As the sky brightens this morning, we’re reminded that the resurrection isn’t just a historical event—it’s the cornerstone of our faith. Paul makes this clear in 1 Corinthians 15. Without the resurrection, our faith is empty, our sins remain, and our hope is lost. But because Christ is risen, everything changes. Let’s unpack three truths from this passage that anchor us today.

The resurrection validates God’s promise.

Paul says if Christ isn’t raised, we’re liars about God, claiming He did something He didn’t. But God, in His sovereign power, did raise Jesus. The empty tomb is God’s signature on His covenant of grace. From Genesis to Revelation, God promised to redeem His people, and the resurrection proves He keeps His word. As Reformed believers, we rest in God’s unchanging faithfulness. The God who raised Jesus is the God who will never abandon you.

The resurrection secures our salvation.

Paul warns that if Christ isn’t raised, “you are still in your sins.” But because He lives, our justification is complete. Christ’s death paid the penalty for our sin, and His resurrection confirms that God accepted the payment. Romans 4:25 says He was “raised for our justification.” Friends, your standing before God doesn’t depend on your performance but on Christ’s finished work. In a world of uncertainty, this is unshakable good news.

The resurrection guarantees our future.

Paul calls Christ the “firstfruits” of those who’ve died. In the Old Testament, firstfruits were the initial harvest, promising more to come. Jesus’ resurrection is the pledge that we, too, will rise. Because He lives, we will live. Death isn’t the end for those in Christ. As Paul says, “in Christ shall all be made alive.” This hope isn’t wishful thinking—it’s rooted in God’s sovereign plan, set before the foundation of the world.

As we stand here, watching the sunrise, let it remind you: just as light overcomes darkness, Christ’s resurrection overcomes death. This is why we can face today—and every day—with courage and joy.

Living in Resurrection Light

First, let the resurrection deepen your trust in God’s sovereignty. If He can raise the dead, He can handle whatever you’re facing—your fears, your failures, your uncertainties. Cast them on Him.

Second, let it fuel your worship. The risen Christ is worthy of your whole life, not just your Sunday mornings. Live for His glory, knowing your labor in Him isn’t in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Finally, let it stir your hope. Share this good news with others. In a world groping for meaning, you carry the light of the gospel. Tell someone this week why Easter changes everything.

Closing Prayer