In what ways can we "raise the dead" spiritually in today's world? The Command to Raise the Dead—Matthew 10:8 “Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give.” Recognizing Spiritual Death • Every unbeliever is “dead in trespasses and sins” (Ephesians 2:1). • Spiritual death is separation from God, not annihilation of the soul (Isaiah 59:2). • Only God can impart new life, yet He chooses to work through His people (2 Corinthians 5:18-20). The Divine Power Behind Spiritual Resurrection • The Gospel: “It is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16). • The Holy Spirit: “He made us alive together with Christ” (Ephesians 2:5). • The Word: “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). Practical Ways We “Raise the Dead” Today 1. Proclaim the Gospel Clearly – Share Christ crucified and risen (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). – Keep the message simple, biblical, and centered on grace. 2. Pray Persistently – Intercede for blinded minds to open (2 Corinthians 4:3-6). – Ask the Spirit to convict of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). 3. Model New Life – Live in visible holiness and joy (Philippians 2:15-16). – Display the fruit of the Spirit that contrasts spiritual death (Galatians 5:22-23). 4. Offer Compassionate Deeds – Good works authenticate the message (Matthew 5:16; James 2:15-17). – Acts of mercy echo Jesus’ ministry of healing and restoration. 5. Cultivate Relationships – Earn the right to speak by genuine friendship (1 Thessalonians 2:8). – Listen well; tailor truth to real questions and burdens (Colossians 4:5-6). 6. Equip and Disciple – Teach new believers to walk in the life they’ve received (Matthew 28:19-20). – Multiplication extends resurrection power beyond one generation. 7. Bear Personal Testimony – “Always be ready to give an answer” for the hope within (1 Peter 3:15). – A changed life is evidence that God still raises the dead. Maintaining a Resurrection Mindset • Dependence: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). • Boldness: The same Spirit who raised Jesus empowers us (Romans 8:11). • Expectation: God desires “all people to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4). Key Takeaway We “raise the dead” spiritually whenever we cooperate with God’s Spirit—proclaiming the Gospel, praying, loving, discipling—so that those who are dead in sin may hear Christ’s voice and “cross over from death to life” (John 5:24). |
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