Risen to Life: The Power of Christ's Resurrection in Us
“But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb.” — Luke 24:1-2 (ESV)
When I first learned about the concept of the “resurrection,” I was five years old. Though I didn’t fully comprehend what the pastor was saying, I knew two things: Jesus lived and died for me because I was a sinner in need of saving.
Merriam-Webster defines resurrection as the rising of Christ from the dead, along with the rising of all the human dead before the final judgment. Romans 1:4 further explains this as anastasis, meaning to rise or stand up both literally and figuratively, spiritually and physically.
Easter represents not only Jesus’ death on a Cross, but also His miraculous resurrection. Romans 6:5 assures us that if we die with Christ, we will also live in unity with Him. This promise is a profound encouragement, reminding us that while our physical bodies may waste away (2 Corinthians 4:16), if we have a personal relationship with Jesus, we can look forward to eternal life.
The even greater news is this: The power of Christ’s resurrection lives in us right now. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to every believer. While interpretations of Romans 8:11 vary regarding healing and miracles, Luke 24:1-2 emphasizes what matters most: Christ died for our sins, and because of His death, we can live. Though sin may still tempt us, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live differently (1 Corinthians 6:19; Romans 8:9).
This Easter, if you find it difficult to embrace this idea of resurrection in your life, consider doing a word and Bible study on sanctification. Explore passages like Romans 8, Ephesians 1:19-20, and Luke 24. Ask God to reveal Himself through His Word, enabling you to grasp the fullness of His work in your life. This time of study provides space to process and pray authentically with Him.
Questions for Reflection:
- When you think of the resurrection, do you recognize that the power of Christ lives in you?
- Is it challenging to acknowledge that the same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead now empowers you to live differently?
- Spend time in conversation with God about your understanding of the resurrection. Ask Him what this means for you, and how you can apply His truth to your life. Easter is a great opportunity to deepen your faith and share it with others. Remember, don’t shy away from what you don’t understand! With a humble heart and a teachable spirit, God delights in our questions and longs to comfort and teach us through the process of sanctification.
