1 Corinthians 15:5-8 (NIVUK)
3 For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. 6 After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, 8 and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.
Jesus’ resurrection is not a nice idea or piece of fantasy, but a claim made on the basis of an extensive list of eyewitnesses. This should give us some reassurance regarding its validity. And if Jesus did rise from the dead, that surely changes everything – as Paul says, it is of first importance:
- There is a god.
- Jesus is who he claimed to be through his words and deeds – God’s Son sent to us as our saviour and God’s chosen leader.
- We may enjoy life after death just like him.
- It validates his teaching
- It tells us that God forgives us and longs for a relationship with us.
The list could go on…
Thank you Father that through the resurrection, we have a hope of a relationship with you that lasts from now and continues beyond the grave!
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