Resurrection

What it means

Christ has been raised as the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. His resurrection is the first of a harvest, not a one time exception.

Why every Christian should know it

It makes the empty tomb personal. What happened to Jesus is the pattern for what happens to everyone who belongs to him.

Cross references

• 1 Thessalonians 4:14
• Romans 8:11
• 1 Corinthians 15:54-57

Pray it back

Risen Lord, you are the first of the harvest. Let that hope reach the graves I grieve over.

What it means

At Lazarus' tomb Jesus says he is the resurrection and the life, and that whoever believes in him will live even though he dies.

Why every Christian should know it

It is the passage read at Christian funerals for a reason. Resurrection is not only a future event, it is a person standing in front of you.

Cross references

• John 5:28-29
• 1 Corinthians 15:20
• Revelation 1:18

Pray it back

Lord Jesus, you are the resurrection and the life. I believe. Help me believe it at the graveside as well as in the pew.

What it means

We were buried with him through baptism into death so that, as Christ was raised, we too may live a new life.

Why every Christian should know it

It explains why resurrection changes Monday. New life is not postponed to heaven, it starts now in ordinary conduct.

Cross references

• Colossians 3:1-3
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Galatians 2:20

Pray it back

Father, I was buried with Christ and raised with him. Let today look like a resurrected life.

What it means

God has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

Why every Christian should know it

It names Christian hope as living, because the one it rests on is alive. Hope that depends on circumstances dies with them.

Cross references

• Titus 1:2
• 1 Corinthians 15:19
• Romans 5:5

Pray it back

Praise you, Father of mercies. My hope is alive because my Saviour is alive.