The Resurrection Hope of Jesus
In the midst of a world plagued by death and decay, Jesus burst onto the scene, bringing with him a message of hope and life. As the serpent crusher and curse bearer, he was born in Bethlehem, raised in Nazareth, and baptized in the Jordan River. His teachings and miracles ignited a spark of hope in the hearts of those who heard him, and his ultimate victory over death on the cross and in his resurrection paved the way for humanity’s redemption.
Life and Light in the Dark World
Jesus’ ministry was a beacon of light in a dark world. He pronounced blessings on the meek, the mourning, and the merciful, and his deeds demonstrated his divine identity. His claims were bold and unapologetic: “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst” (John 6:35). He gave life without being depleted, and his way was life and light because he was life and light.
The Age of Resurrection
Jesus’ coming marked the dawn of a new era – the age of resurrection. His deliverance of people from death during his ministry foreshadowed the final day when all the dead will be raised. Just as the widow’s son and Jairus’s daughter and Lazarus obeyed the voice of Jesus and revived, so too will the tombs open at the voice of Jesus on that great day.
The Power of the Son of God
In John 5:25-29, Jesus made some of the most significant statements about the general resurrection. He taught that there is true life here and now for sinners, but also a future bodily resurrection for all people. His words are both a promise and a warning: those who have done good will be raised to the resurrection of life, while those who have done evil will be raised to the resurrection of judgment.
The Coming Judgment
Jesus also taught that the future judgment will occur after the resurrection of the dead. The dead will be gathered for judgment, and Jesus will hold the nations to account. His words are a call to repentance and faith: “Do you believe this?” (John 11:26).
The Glory of the Righteous
In the parable of the weeds, Jesus taught that the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. This is a promise of future glory for those who are in Christ. At his return, Jesus will gather the nations by resurrection, and the wicked will experience an unending embodied judgment, while the saints will enter the joy and glory that is theirs in Christ.
Union with Christ
Because Jesus lives, we will live. The lifegiving power of the Son of God will transform our perishable and vulnerable state. We will shine like the sun – and like the Son. This is the hope of the resurrection, and it is ours in Christ.
Conclusion
Jesus’ teachings on the resurrection are a source of hope and comfort for believers. His victory over death has paved the way for our own resurrection, and his promise of future glory is a beacon of light in a dark world. May we hold fast to this hope and live our lives in light of the resurrection to come.
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