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The Gospel biographies of Jesus Christ are unique among writings. The stories of men's lives and activities terminate with their death. Their sun has finally set, never to rise again in this world. The establishments they founded and the influence they exerted may live on. History records the achievements of their time on earth, but they are no longer around to enjoy the fruits of their success. The grave and the headstone mark the place where loved ones laid their mortal remains, to await the resurrection day. If you read the gospel records, you will discover that the message never closes with a death. They conclude with the message of a risen and victorious Lord. He is alive. People met Him. His closest friends saw Him first of all, and later He met with a congregation of five hundred. 1 Corinthians 15:6. Best of all, the story of His risen power is still being written. He is transforming people today. He is giving everlasting life to those who trust in Him. The Easter message has no significance unless it touches us at a personal level and implants the life of the risen Christ in the soul. This message can have such an impact on your life this Easter! It was Dr. F. B. Meyer who said, "The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are the two poles of the Christian faith." They are the two central themes of the Easter weekend. Let us consider briefly their significance and relevance to us as individuals. The purpose of His death. The Gospel writers provide the narrative of Christ's death. He was crucified at the place called Calvary. Two common criminals were crucified along with Him, one on either side. Darkness enveloped the final agonising hours. Eventually a cry pierced the air: "It is finished!" and His spirit was released from His body. Was there a purpose in all this? Why did they nail Him to Calvary's cross? The answer is provided in the New Testament epistles. Saint Paul states it in these words: "God was in Christ reconciling the world unto Himself." 2 Crinthians 5:18 - 20. "He died, the just for the unjust that He might bring us to God." 1 Peter 3:18. "He gave His life a ransom for all. . ." 1 Timothy 2:6. It is the finished work of the cross that removes the record of sin and reconciles the sinner to God. Come just as you are. The power of His resurrection. The same One who died arose from the tomb. He said He would arise after three days. The Roman guards could not prevent His resurrection. His disciples could scarcely take it in - but it was true! He was alive. The apostle Paul says, "He lives after the power of an endless life. Death hath no more dominion over Him." In Romans 1:4 we read, "He is declared to be the Son of God with power, by the resurrection from the dead." What relevance has this resurrection to us today? He lives to impart His life and power to all those who will receive Him in simple child like faith. This is the unique nature of Christianity: the life of the Founder is imparted to His followers. In this inward regeneration, the individual is set free from the power of sin. The thrill of becoming a new creation in Christ Jesus touches every area of the life, and people see a changed person.
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Due to be updated: Sunday 7th May Archived Messages. |