What impact should Jesus' resurrection have on our faith and evangelism efforts? The Historical Fact: Resurrection Confirmed • Acts 2:32—“God has raised this Jesus to life, to which we are all witnesses.” • Eyewitness testimony: Peter speaks for more than 500 who saw the risen Lord (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:6). • A bodily event, not a metaphor; the empty tomb and physical appearances form the bedrock of Christian proclamation. • Because God acted in history, faith rests on solid ground, not wishful thinking. Strengthened Faith: A Living, Unshakable Hope • 1 Peter 1:3—“He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” • Romans 6:4—Raised with Christ, we “walk in newness of life.” Present victory over sin flows from an already-accomplished resurrection. • 1 Corinthians 15:17, 20—If Christ is raised, our faith is effective and our sins are forgiven; His resurrection guarantees ours. • Daily confidence: the Savior who conquered death now intercedes (Hebrews 7:25) and will return (Acts 1:11). Empowered Witness: The Resurrection Drives Evangelism • Acts 2:32-33—Because Jesus lives and has poured out the Spirit, Peter preaches and 3,000 believe. • Acts 4:33—“With great power the apostles continued to bear witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.” The message and the power are inseparable. • Matthew 28:18-20—The risen Christ’s authority and abiding presence compel disciple-making. • Romans 1:4-5—The resurrection declares Jesus “Son of God” and supplies grace to call the nations to “the obedience that comes from faith.” • A living Savior means our gospel invitation is not to an idea but to a Person who still saves. Practical Ways to Let the Resurrection Shape Our Outreach • Speak of Jesus as alive now—present tense verbs turn doctrines into encounters. • Share personal transformation stories that flow from resurrection power: freedom from sin, new priorities, restored relationships. • Highlight the historical evidence; many skeptics come to faith when confronted with the facts (Acts 26:26). • Depend on the Holy Spirit—poured out by the risen Lord—to convict hearts and confirm the word with power. • Offer hope beyond the grave; in a fearful world, resurrection promises eternal life and bodily renewal. • Keep worship vibrant: joyful believers attract listening ears (Psalm 40:3). • Send and support missionaries; the empty tomb guarantees God’s global plan will succeed (Revelation 7:9-10). |
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