Resurrection Resources
Helping Us to Live Resurrected Lives
[Adapted from our recent series, The Time of Trouble (with E. Ray Cox), April 22 – 26.]
Resurrection is a central gospel theme (1Cor. 15:1-4). This resurrection centrality is shard along with the death of the Jesus. Whereas Jesus’ death is about propitiation, by his blood, for sin (Rom. 3:25); the resurrection is in demonstration of power for extreme newness (Rom. 1:4; 6:4).
The following references show the unfolding importance of the resurrection in biblical sequence:
A. John 11:25-26     Jesus’ “I am the resurrection” statement
B. Acts 1:21-26         The qualifying of Matthias involves the resurrection
C. Acts 2:22-32         Resurrection is a key-note on the Day of Pentecost
D. Acts 3:12,25-26  The earliest gospel preaching included the resurrection
E. Acts 4:1-2               Resurrection was annoying to the Sadducees
F. Acts 17:18               Paul proclaimed the resurrection at intellectual Athens
G. 1 Cor. 15:12-20     A Christian world-view demands a resurrection
H. Rev. 20:6               The resurrection is critical for being a blessing of God
I.  Rom. 6:3-5,17        To obey the gospel is to fully identify with Christ
J.  Col. 3:1                      Living the resurrected life involves a higher seeking
We are very aware of the state of Christianity in America.  Even the secular magazine, Newsweek (April/2009) reports – “The Decline and Fall of Christian America.”  We could wish otherwise, certainly. But, in the midst of this paradigm shift, the church will be purged (cf. 1 Pet. 4:12-19).
Resurrection living must happen now.
-Robert M. Housby