How can we find hope in Jesus' resurrection despite life's challenges? Certain Promise, Certain Hope “‘They will kill Him, and on the third day He will be raised to life.’ And the disciples were deeply grieved.” (Matthew 17:23) • Jesus stated His death and resurrection as settled facts—events that would occur exactly as foretold. • Because the prophecy proved true, every other promise He makes is equally reliable. • Our hope is therefore anchored not in feelings but in the historical, bodily resurrection of Christ. Resurrection Truths That Steady the Heart • John 11:25—“I am the resurrection and the life.” His identity guarantees life for all who believe. • Romans 6:4—We walk “in newness of life” right now because He rose. • 1 Corinthians 15:20—Christ is “the firstfruits”; our own future resurrection is just as certain. • Revelation 1:18—The risen Jesus holds “the keys of death and of Hades,” so nothing eternal can be lost. When Challenges Press In • Grief: 1 Thessalonians 4:14—We grieve with hope, knowing those in Christ will rise. • Failure: John 21:15-17—The risen Lord restored Peter; He still restores repentant hearts today. • Fear: Hebrews 2:14-15—Because Jesus conquered death, the fear of death no longer enslaves us. • Temptation: Romans 8:11—The Spirit who raised Jesus empowers daily victory over sin. • Uncertainty: Hebrews 13:8—The resurrected Christ is “the same yesterday and today and forever.” Practical Ways to Live Resurrection Hope • Recall the gospel daily—preach Matthew 17:23 to your own heart. • Worship boldly—sing as people already rescued (1 Peter 1:3). • Endure trials—see suffering as momentary compared with eternal glory (2 Corinthians 4:16-18). • Serve sacrificially—nothing done in the Lord is in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58). • Speak life—share the good news, confident Jesus is alive and still saving. Looking Ahead with Confidence • 1 Corinthians 15:51-57—Death will be “swallowed up in victory.” • Philippians 3:20-21—Our lowly bodies will be transformed to be like His glorious body. • Revelation 21:4—A future free from tears, mourning, and pain is guaranteed. Because Matthew 17:23 happened exactly as Jesus said, hope is never wishful thinking; it is certainty grounded in the empty tomb. Whatever challenges arise, His resurrection secures both present strength and future joy. |
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