Guided by The Gospel - Issue 52 (The Risen Savior/Jesus Lives)

"But he said to them, 'Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He has risen; he is not here. See the place where they laid Him.'” - Mark 16:6

Dear Readers,

On this glorious Easter day, we celebrate the most monumental event in Christian faith: the resurrection of Jesus Christ. In the 52nd issue of "Guided by The Gospel," we delve into the significance of "Jesus Lives," exploring how this truth shapes our lives and faith. The resurrection is the heart of our belief, symbolizing hope, renewal, and eternal life.

1. Matthew 28:5-6 - "The angel said to the women, 'Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay.'"? This passage encapsulates the miraculous event of Jesus' resurrection, offering hope and affirming that God's promises are true. It reminds us of the victory over death and the foundation of our faith.

2. 1 Corinthians 15:20-22 - "But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive."? Paul's words to the Corinthians affirm the resurrection as the heart of Christian doctrine. Through Jesus' resurrection, we are given the promise of eternal life, contrasting the death brought through Adam.

3. John 11:25-26 - "Jesus said to her, 'I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?'"? Jesus' proclamation to Martha before raising Lazarus from the dead serves as a profound declaration of His power over death and an invitation to believe in Him for eternal life.

4. Luke 24:6-7 - "He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: 'The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.'"? This passage highlights the fulfillment of Jesus' prophecy about His resurrection, emphasizing that God's plan for salvation was accomplished through Jesus' death and resurrection.

5. Romans 6:4-5 - "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we will certainly also be united with him in a resurrection like his."? Paul speaks to the transformation and newness of life that comes from being united with Christ in both His death and resurrection. This unity offers believers a powerful hope for eternal life.

Here are a few practical examples that can model our belief in the resurrection power of Jesus:

1. Sharing Testimonies: Share your personal testimony of faith with others. Your story of transformation can be a powerful testament to the reality of the resurrection in changing lives.

2. Volunteering at Local Shelters: Demonstrate the love of Christ by serving at local shelters or food banks. These acts of service reflect the renewal and hope we have in Jesus.

3. Starting a Prayer Group: Initiate a prayer group focusing on praying for renewal in your community and around the world. Prayer is a powerful way to connect with the transformative power of the resurrection.

4. Mentoring: Offer to mentor someone in your church or community. Just as Jesus' life and teachings guide us, you can help guide others in their faith journey.

5. Environmental Stewardship: Engage in activities that care for creation, such as cleanup drives or tree planting. These actions reflect the renewal of all creation promised through Christ.

Ponder these reflective questions to reinforce/question your beliefs about “The Living Christ”:

1. How does understanding the resurrection of Jesus Christ transform your perspective on suffering and trials in your own life?

2. What does it mean to you to "live a new life" in the context of the resurrection?

3. Can you identify a moment in your life when you felt you experienced a form of spiritual resurrection? What was that like?

4. How can you embody the hope of the resurrection in your daily interactions with others?

5. In what ways can you more fully embrace the transformative power of the resurrection in your personal spiritual practices?

As we celebrate Easter today, let us rejoice in the truth that Jesus is alive, offering hope, renewal, and the promise of eternal life to all who believe. The resurrection of Christ is not just a historical event; it's the foundation of our faith, the source of our hope, and the assurance of our future.

We encourage you to share the joy and hope found in the message of "The Risen Savior" with others. May this Easter message inspire you to live out the transformative power of Christ's resurrection in every area of your life, every day of your life.? We invite you to dive deeper into the meaning of Easter and the resurrection. Engage with the scripture, connect with fellow believers, and seek ways to live out the reality of the risen Christ in your everyday life.

Let us carry the light of Christ into the world, reflecting His love and life to all we encounter. Happy Easter to you and your loved ones. May you be richly blessed by the profound truth that indeed, Jesus Lives.? - Edward

"I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades." - Revelation 1:18

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