Why are the cross, Jesus’ death, and resurrection so important when we consider the Gospel—the Good News of Jesus and the Kingdom?
While there are many things that could be said here, I’ll emphasize three highlights regarding the importance of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus:
- Every aspect of the Good News of Jesus (i.e. adoption, the promised Holy Spirit, reconciliation with God, and more) is rooted, connected, catalyzed, and proven through the events we remember during Easter.
- The resurrection of Jesus proves that there is life after death (1 Corinthians 15:13-22) and it shows us that Jesus was, in fact, who He said He is! All of Jesus’ truth claims and “I am” statements are proven true in His rising on the third day.
- The cross and the blood of Christ are the basis for our redemption (Romans 3:25, Ephesians 1:7, 1 Peter 3:18).
- Our continued sanctification and formation is built on the foundation of the death of Jesus and the atonement (2 Corinthians 5:21).
- The resurrection is the foundation for our new life and the power of living in Jesus(Romans 6:5-9, Ephesians 2:4-7).
- The fact that, in faith, we are now alive in Jesus and no longer stuck in the death of sin is very good news, isn’t it?
As we move forward to talk about other facets of the Gospel, let’s never forget that they are all connected to, catalyzed, and proven by the events of the passion and resurrection.
As you reflect on these aspects of the Gospel, what new insights do you gain? How does it make you feel? How will they encourage you as you walk in the Good News this next week?