Resurrection Equals Triumph is a message taken from Romans 5:1-11. This passage talks about the demonstration of the love of God for us, through the death of Christ. Notice the phrase in verse 8, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
A related passage about the death and resurrection of Jesus is also penned by Paul found in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4, “For what I received on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.”
The resurrection of Jesus Christ means victory and triumph for all of us. Paul, in his letters to the Romans and 1 Corinthians, mentioned blessings and benefits that we can enjoy? What are these benefits and blessings that we can experience through Christ’s death and resurrection?
1. Peace with God
This phrase “we have peace with God through Jesus Christ” (v. 1) can be linked back when humankind separated from the presence of God because of sin. Through the death of Jesus Christ and through our faith in Him, we now have peace with God. Looking back to the story of Adam and Eve, it reminds us that because of their disobedience, sin separated them from God.
In Verse 10, “For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son.” There is a gap between God and humanity. We were once enemies, as the passage says. But not anymore. Thanks be to God, we can now enjoy a joyful relationship with Him. Sin has been forgiven. We are justified by faith through the Lord Jesus Christ.
2. Access to God’s Grace
The death and resurrection of Christ is also a triumph for us because we now have full access to God and His favor. In verse 2, “through whom we have gained access by faith into the grace in which we now stand.” There is now an opportunity for us to experience God’s love and grace.
Remember the time when only the priests can enter into the holy of holies in the temple. But when Jesus died, it says in Matthew 27:51, “At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom.” It means God’s presence is now available to all. It is not limited anymore to a limited number of people.
One of the greatest tragedies in life is living far away from God. But one of the greatest blessings is to come freely to God, accessing fully His presence and grace. Let us all draw near to God and experience His presence.
Related post: The Blessing of Abiding in the Lord
3. Strength in Suffering
There is a declaration of “glory” in suffering. In verse 3, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance…” Suffering and tribulations in this world are temporary. We still experience suffering and problems but through Jesus Christ, who has given us the victory, we can persevere. The Lord is able to strengthen us.
There is a path towards becoming more like Christ if there is suffering. We become more like Christ when we overcome trials and sufferings. Jesus suffered a lot because of us. All the sufferings that we face today cannot compare to the pain and suffering Christ have been through. Keep on. Jesus strengthens us.
4. Hope of Salvation
The message of salvation centers on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Pauline eschatology and soteriology focus deeply on the cross and resurrection. Within Pauline epistles, the message of the cross and resurrection are highly emphasized.
In verse 5, ” God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” The Holy Spirit is the guarantee that we are now saved. If you have accepted the Lord Jesus as your Lord and Savior, the Spirit now lives in you. The Holy Spirit is the evidence that you are already saved.
A related passage regarding salvation is found in verse10, “…having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life.” We can be saved because Jesus died for us. His life is the ultimate sacrifice so that we can have eternal life if we believe in Him. Accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
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