EASTER – CELEBRATING THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: Matthew 28:1-10
Supporting Texts: Mark 16:1-8, Luke 24:1-12, John 20:1-18
INTRODUCTION:
Easter is the most significant event in Christianity, as it marks the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, from the dead. This powerful event changes the course of human history and is the cornerstone of our faith. Without the resurrection, the death of Jesus would have been in vain, and Christianity would have no foundation. The resurrection proves that Jesus is the Son of God, conquers death, and brings eternal hope to all believers.
In this sermon, we will explore the deep significance of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, its transformative power in our lives, and how it brings us new life. The resurrection is not just a historical fact but a living reality that impacts our lives today. It speaks of victory, hope, and a future that is secure in Christ.
Let us look closely at what the resurrection means for us and how we can celebrate this miraculous event in our lives.
1. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE RESURRECTION
The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event, but it is the very foundation of the Christian faith. It affirms everything that Jesus taught and stands for. Through His resurrection, He secured our victory over sin, death, and the grave.
a) Jesus Conquered Death (1 Corinthians 15:54-57)
The resurrection of Jesus proves that death does not have the final say. He broke the power of death, ensuring that those who believe in Him will not experience eternal death. Death is no longer a fearsome enemy because Jesus overcame it.
b) Jesus’ Resurrection Affirms Our Justification (Romans 4:25)
Jesus was raised from the dead to show that He has accomplished the work of salvation. Through His resurrection, He confirms that the price for sin has been fully paid, and we are justified before God.
c) Jesus’ Resurrection Proves He Is the Son of God (Romans 1:4)
The resurrection affirms Jesus' identity as the Son of God. It is a divine confirmation that He is who He said He was. The resurrection is God’s seal of approval on the life and ministry of Jesus.
d) Jesus Gives Us Eternal Hope (1 Peter 1:3)
The resurrection of Jesus is the basis of our hope for eternal life. Because He rose from the dead, we too will rise with Him when He comes again. Our future is secure in His resurrection, and this hope sustains us through life’s trials.
Biblical Example: Jesus' appearance to Mary Magdalene (John 20:14-18)
When Mary encountered the risen Lord, it was a moment of joy and revelation. The resurrection transformed Mary’s sorrow into great joy. The same is true for us – the resurrection transforms our sorrow into joy and brings us into a new relationship with God.
2. THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION
The resurrection of Jesus is a demonstration of divine power. It is not just an event to be celebrated but a powerful force that is still at work in the lives of believers today.
a) The Power That Raised Jesus From the Dead (Ephesians 1:19-20)
The resurrection of Jesus was the result of divine power. This power, which raised Jesus from the dead, is available to believers. It is the same power that works in us to overcome sin and live a victorious Christian life.
b) The Same Power Lives in Us (Romans 8:11)
The power that raised Jesus from the dead is not distant or inactive – it lives in every believer. This means that we are empowered to live a new life, to walk in victory, and to overcome challenges, just as Jesus did.
c) It Enables Us to Live Victorious Lives Over Sin (Romans 6:4-5)
The resurrection of Jesus makes it possible for us to live a new life. We no longer have to be slaves to sin. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead enables us to live in righteousness and walk in newness of life.
d) The Resurrection is the Source of Our Spiritual Regeneration (1 Peter 1:3)
Through the resurrection, we are spiritually reborn. Our old lives are put to death, and we are given new hearts and a new nature. This regeneration empowers us to live according to God’s will and purpose.
Biblical Example: The resurrection of Lazarus (John 11:38-44)
Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, demonstrating His authority over death. Lazarus came out of the tomb alive, a living testimony to the power of Jesus' resurrection. This same power is available to us today to bring dead things in our lives back to life.
3. THE RESURRECTION BRINGS US NEW LIFE
The resurrection of Jesus is not just about life after death; it is about experiencing new life here and now. Through the resurrection, we are given the opportunity to experience a transformed life.
a) New Life in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)
The resurrection gives us a new beginning. When we accept Jesus into our lives, we are made new. The old has passed away, and everything becomes new. The resurrection marks the start of a new life for every believer.
b) A New Identity as Children of God (Romans 8:14-17)
Through the resurrection, we are adopted into God’s family. We are no longer strangers or orphans; we are sons and daughters of God. The resurrection restores our identity and gives us a new place in God’s family.
c) The Promise of a Future Resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-22)
The resurrection of Jesus is the guarantee that we too will rise again. Just as Jesus was raised from the dead, we will also be resurrected at the end of time. This promise gives us hope for the future and assurance that death is not the end.
d) The Power to Live in Freedom (John 8:36)
The resurrection sets us free from the power of sin. Jesus’ victory over death means that we no longer have to be bound by sin, fear, or condemnation. The resurrection gives us the freedom to live according to God’s will.
Biblical Example: The conversion of Saul (Acts 9:1-19)
Saul was a persecutor of Christians, but after his encounter with the risen Christ, he was transformed. He became Paul, one of the greatest apostles of the New Testament. The resurrection of Jesus brought new life to Paul and changed his destiny.
CONCLUSION:
The resurrection of Jesus is the most significant event in human history. It is the victory of life over death, of hope over despair, and of light over darkness. Through the resurrection, Jesus offers us new life, new hope, and a secure future in Him.
As we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord, let us remember that this is not just an event of the past, but a living reality that impacts our lives today. The power of the resurrection is available to each one of us. It gives us the strength to overcome sin, the hope for eternal life, and the courage to live for Christ. Let the resurrection of Jesus be the foundation of your faith, the source of your joy, and the reason for your hope.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, thank You for the power of the resurrection.
2. I receive the power of the resurrection to overcome every challenge in my life.
3. Father, transform my life with the same power that raised Jesus from the dead.
4. Lord, let the resurrection of Jesus bring new life to every area of my life.
5. I declare victory over death, sin, and the grave in Jesus’ name.
