Resurrection Faith

Isn’t it great to be a Christian? As members of the body, we have reason to rejoice no matter what else is going on in the world. The power and promises of God are centered around one theme, resurrection. Obedience to the gospel requires that one believe Christ was raised from the dead, according to the Scriptures (1 Cor 15:1-6). If not for the resurrection, we would be of all people most miserable and remain dead in our sins (1 Cor 15:16-20). This is the most fundamental and imperative element of Christianity. In fact, we can find a formula for true faith – what you might call “resurrection faith” – in examining the record of the Lord’s resurrection.

The 27th chapter of Matthew closes with scenes of sorrow and grief. We read how Jesus died and was buried. His disciples were scattered and scared. The Jewish leaders and Roman authorities stood with their arrogance intact. Satan, it seemed, had won. Then, we move into the 28th chapter and everything changes. Early on that Sunday morning, the women who had followed Christ faithfully were the first to hear of His resurrection. They found the seal of the tomb broken and the stone rolled back from the door (Matt 28:1-4). Many have been correct in pointing out that the stone was removed not to let the Lord out, but rather to let the witnesses inside. The announcement was, “He is not here; for He is risen, as He said. Come, see…” (Matt 28:6).

First, notice that these faithful women heard a message concerning Jesus. They were told about the risen Lord. Today, you and I have received a message. We have heard of Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. Truly, faith comes by hearing the word of God (Rom 10:17). Because Christ lives, we can live. The teaching of Christ’s grace has been communicated, revealed, and carefully preserved. This is the word we shall be judged by (John 12:48). These are the words that lead one to abundant and eternal life (John 6:68; 10:10).

Second, consider how the faithful women acted upon their belief in that message. They obeyed the instruction to go and tell of Christ’s resurrection. Have we acted upon our belief of the Bible message? God’s Word teaches that we must repent of our sins (Luke 13:3), confess Jesus as Lord (Rom 10:9-10), be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38), and live faithful to Him (Heb 3:13-14; 11:6). A faith that refuses to do these things cannot be true faith (Jam 2:14-17; 2 Pet 1:5-11).

Third, observe how these believing women set out to share that message with others. The joy of the resurrection was something they wanted to share. Do we have resurrection faith? If we do, then we will be working to fulfill the command to evangelize (Mark 16:15-16; Rom 10:14-15). Let’s live out our true faith!