Easter – 2003

April 20, 2003Northwest Bible Church
Worship ServiceAlan Conner

Easter – 2003
The Importance of Christ’s Resurrection

INTRO
Nothing in Christianity is more important than the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul taught us that it was an essential part of the gospel (1 Cor. 15:3-4).
The resurrection of Christ makes Christianity unique among all the other religions of the world. Every other religion has its founders and holy men, but without exception they have all died and their bones have turned to dust. But Christianity alone has a risen Savior, who is at this very moment, alive and reigning on his throne in heaven.
Let us consider some of the reasons why the resurrection of Christ is so important.

I. ESSENTIAL TO HIS DIVINE NATURE (Rom. 1:4).

A. The "Son of God" is an expression of deity.
B. But how does Christ’s resurrection declare his deity? Jn. 10:17-18; 11:25; 2:19-21.
II. ESSENTIAL FOR OUR JUSTIFICATION (Rom. 4:25).

A. The meaning of the word "for" in "for our justification."
B. The meaning of Christ being raised because of our justification.

III. ESSENTIAL FOR OUR SANCTIFICATION (Phil. 3:10).

A. Source of our power in the Christian life.
B. Source of Christ’s on-going ministry to us as Prophet, Priest, and King.

1) Prophet (1 Cor. 2:11).

2) Priest (Heb. 7:25).

3) King (Acts 2:33; Eph. 1:20-22).

IV. ESSENTIAL FOR OUR GLORIFICATION (1 Cor. 15:20-23).

"Because I live, you shall live also" (Jn. 14:19). Christ is the "firstfruits of those who are asleep" (1 Cor. 15:20). This guarantees a great harvest to come in which all believers will participate.

What shall we say to all of this?

"My Lord and my God", with Thomas.

"That I may know Him" with Paul.

"Come Lord Jesus" with John.
Without the resurrection of Christ there would be NO JUSTIFICATION, SANCTIFICATION, GLORIFICATION.