What does "He is not here; He has risen" mean for our faith? The Heart of the Message “ ‘He is not here; He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He lay.’ ” (Matthew 28:6) The Historical Reality • Eyewitnesses saw the empty tomb (Matthew 28:1-10; John 20:1-8). • Jesus appeared bodily to many (Luke 24:39-43; 1 Corinthians 15:4-8). • Scripture presents these events as fact, not allegory. Assurance of Christ’s Victory • Death is defeated—“Death has been swallowed up in victory” (1 Corinthians 15:54-57). • Satan’s power is broken—Hebrews 2:14. • Sin’s penalty is paid—Colossians 2:13-15. Foundation for Justification • “He was delivered over to death for our trespasses and raised to life for our justification” (Romans 4:25). • Without the resurrection faith would be futile and sins unforgiven (1 Corinthians 15:17). Living Hope and Future Resurrection • “He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:3-4). • Because He lives, believers will live also (John 14:19). • Our bodies will be raised imperishable (1 Corinthians 15:42-44). Empowered Life Today • United with Christ in His resurrection, we walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4-5). • The power that raised Jesus works in believers (Ephesians 1:19-20). • Resurrection life fuels daily obedience (Colossians 3:1-3). Unshakable Mission • The risen Lord sends disciples to make disciples (Matthew 28:18-20). • Resurrection witness drives gospel proclamation (Acts 4:33). Joyful Worship • The disciples returned “with great joy” (Luke 24:52). • Heavenly praise centers on the Lamb who was slain and lives forever (Revelation 5:12-13). He is not in the grave; He has risen. This truth secures forgiveness, supplies power, anchors hope, and ignites worship and mission for every follower of Christ. |
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