Alive For Evermore
Revelation 1:18 I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death.
These are the greatest moments in life for those who walk in relationship with Jesus. There are solidifying factors for whom we believe. Lee Strobel, a noted author and investigative reporter, spoke of four key factors of the Resurrection that are important for our faith.
1. Jesus physically died. There is no confirming evidence that ANYONE ever survived a Roman crucifixion. The crucifixion was the most heinous and devastating of any execution throughout history. When Joseph of Arimathea ask for the body of Jesus there was no question that it was finished. Jesus was dead.
2. The second key factor was that there was proof of the early accounts of the Resurrection. There was preserved a “creed” of the earliest Christian church of eyewitness report of the resurrection of Jesus. This “creed” has been dated back by scholars to within months of the death of Jesus! Strobel called this “historical gold” for scholars.
3. The third factor is the “empty tomb”. Even the opponents and detractors of Jesus admitted that the tomb was empty. They just intimated that the disciples must have stolen Jesus’ body (Matt 28:15). But, in the statement itself is the fact that the tomb was in fact empty! The stone was rolled away (Mark 16:3-4).
4. The fourth factor that Strobel spoke of was eyewitnesses. For most types of historical data if there is one or two eyewitnesses is excellent to corroborate facts. But the are no fewer than NINE ancient sources inside and outside the New Testament confirming AND corroborating that the disciples encountered the risen Jesus!
The confirming proof of scriptures like Luke 24:1-12, and 1 Corinthians 15:5-6 when the Apostle Paul explains that Jesus was seen the Peter, the disciples and more that FIVE HUNDRED followers give us the celebratory credence to declare that we serve a Risen Savior! God’s not dead; He is alive forevermore!
As we enter this time of Resurrection, I encourage each of you to share in this time with your eyes wide open and your heart in gratitude of knowing that your Redeemer has the keys to hell and death. Walk in the light of knowing Him for the pardon of your sins and the heirship that we now enjoy. Let’s celebrate together.
