Is The Resurrection of Jesus Important?

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is vitally important to me.  If Christ was not raised from the dead than, according to the apostle Paul, I am still dead in my sin, have no hope for the future and am to be pitied above all.  If, however, Christ was raised from the dead than my faith is sure and my hope is secured.

“For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.  For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.  But each in his own turn:  Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.” (1 Cor. 15:21-22)

The resurrection is such a wonderful, mysterious and unique concept.  But, it is much more than a concept; it is a reality and it will be a reality in my life. Growing up the resurrection seemed more like a concept born out of a science fiction book as opposed to a Kingdom reality. The more that I meditate upon the resurrection of Jesus the more I realize that His rising to life is such a gift of hope.  Just as Christ was raised from the dead so I will be raised from the dead.  If I am alive when Jesus returns, I will meet Him in the sky.  If I have already died when He returns, than I will be raised from the grave and given a new body as I meet Him in the sky.  The resurrection of Jesus and our resurrection through Him is the only source of living hope. 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away…” (1 Peter 1:3-4)

The Holy Spirit was given to us as believers as a result of the resurrection of Jesus and His ascension to the Father.  Because of the resurrection and ascension we have the Eternal, Uncreated Spirit living inside of us.  He is the hope of glory and the guarantee of our salvation and inheritance in Christ.  Jesus said in John 16:7, “It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you.” Without the resurrection of Jesus, we would not have the Holy Spirit living inside of us. He is the only hope of our salvation.  He is the only One who can help us walk in the ways of the Lord and be transformed into His image.  We desperately need the Holy Spirit. 

The revelation of the resurrection will keep us strong, steadfast and hope-filled in the midst of trails and persecution until we die or He returns.  It is good to talk about, meditate on and enjoy the revelation of Jesus’ resurrection and our resurrection in Him.  It is our living hope.