Hello, BRN Family! It’s good to be with you today.
I have a question for you. Have you experienced the power of Jesus’ resurrection?
According to Lifeway Research’s 2022 State of the Theology study, around 1 in 3 Americans doubt the biblical accounts of Jesus’ physical resurrection, including 23% who say they are false. While 66% of Americans say the biblical accounts of Jesus’ resurrection are accurate, fewer (47%) strongly agree. Even among those who regularly attend church, just 71% strongly agree.
Nonetheless, I believe in the power of Jesus’ resurrection! Do you?
The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15, “3 For I delivered to you as of FIRST IMPORTANCE what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, …”
Did you catch that? The death and resurrection is of “FIRST IMPORTANCE,” Paul said.
- Not life in the flesh (Philippians 1:22)
- Not church traditions (Philippians 3:2-3)
- Not confidence in our own ministry accomplishments (Philippians 3:3)
- Not our pedigree or academic achievements (Philippians 3:4-6)
- And not all the things that most would consider as gain (Philippians 3:7)
“Indeed”, says Paul, “I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (Philippians 3:8).
To Paul–and to us!–everything in life pales in comparison to the great glory of knowing Christ and sharing in His sufferings (Philippians 3:10). Christ showed by His resurrection that He has the power to conquer sin and death and ultimately to provide true life to all who believe in Him.
John Calvin put it this way: “The cross of Christ only triumphs in the breast of believers over the devil and the flesh, sin and sinners, when their eyes are directed to the power of His Resurrection.”
I trust that as you celebrate Easter this weekend, you will remember that the crucifixion was the way to the resurrection. Whatever difficulties you are facing individually or as a church, know that God has a resurrection plan. He is the author and perfecter of our faith, and we can lean to him, as we elevate the power of His Resurrection.
Please know that our prayers are for you and for your church during this season and more. As always, the Baptist Resource Network stands ready to assist you in whatever season you are in. Always feel free to contact us at the Help Desk. God bless you! Happy Resurrection Sunday!
