Resurrection

Luke 24 validates the truth of the bodily resurrection of Christ. It is also important in this resurrection lesson to see the resurrection in its theological context.

• The resurrection of Christ was prophesied and foreshadowed in the Old Testament (Ps. 16:10; Isa 53:10; Jonah 1:17-2:10; Matt 12:40).
• Christ foretold His resurrection (Mark 8:31; Luke 9:22; John 2:18-22).
• New Testament writers attested to Christ's resurrection (Rom 1:4; 6:9; Phil 3:10-11; 1 Peter 1:3; 3:21)
• Jesus' resurrection is the basis of our future hope (1 Thess. 4:13-14).
• The resurrection is the motive for steadfast service to Christ (1 Cor 15:58).
• The resurrection of Christ is the reason for Christian morality (1 Cor 15: 32-34).
• The resurrection of Christ is the basis for our Christian experience (Phil 3:10).
• The resurrection of Christ is the measure of His power at work in our lives (Eph 1:19-20)

During this resurrection season, we need to take time to reflect on the importance of Christ's resurrection. It is the distinguishing mark of the Christian faith. No other religion has a founder who died and came back to life.

Let us meditate on the significance of Christ's resurrection by remembering these words from the chorus of Robert Lowry's well known resurrection hymn "Christ Arose":

Up from the grave He arose; With a mighty triumph o'er his foes; He arose a Victor from the dark domain; And He lives forever with His saints to reign, He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!  

Don Anderson