“I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and everyone who lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?”
–Jesus (John 11:25–26)
On Sunday we celebrate the most important day in the history of the world.
The resurrection of Jesus is more than just another amazing historical fact. It has unprecedented practical implications for our life in this world and beyond our grave.
Sadly, there is a great deal of confusion on this matter. According to a recent study we’ll publish later this year, the vast majority of non-Christians (88%) believe that Jesus existed, and most even believe he actually rose from the dead (59%). In other words, it is possible to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus at Easter, believe the resurrection of Jesus as a historical fact, and still reject personal faith in him.
This is tragic.
Jesus promised that he would rise from death to prove beyond any doubt he is God. He also promised that he would judge everyone who has ever lived and determine their fate (John 5:19–30). His first promise came true when he rose from death, and his second promise will come true upon either our death or his return. This makes the opportunity he grants us today—to repent and turn away from sin and judgment and toward him—all the more urgent.
Plainly stated in loving concern, if you have not come to know and love the living Jesus who has conquered both sin and death on our behalf, you are sadly destined to die and spend eternity in the torments of hell. Forgiveness and eternal life are made possible only through Jesus’ own death and resurrection for us.
That is what we celebrate on Easter. As you hear of Jesus’ offer of salvation, I pray that this good news would resonate with joy in your heart, for the first time or the five hundredth time.
Jesus has saved me. Jesus has saved thousands at Mars Hill Church. Jesus can save you. In his own words, “Do you believe this?”
Free gift
To help you learn more about Jesus, we have a special Easter gift for you. Sign up for a free account (or sign in with an existing account) by clicking here before Saturday, April 26, and you’ll get a free ebook version of Pastor Mark Driscoll’s Vintage Jesus: Timeless Answers to Timely Questions.
