Dear Hope family,

Thought for the Week

Easter – We preach Christ raised

1 Corinthians 15v1-8 “I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you … that Christ was raised on the third day … and he appeared to Peter … the Twelve … 500 … James … all the apostles … me.”

1 Corinthians is a very practical book, dealing with several life issues; so, it is fascinating that it begins with “Christ crucified” (see last week and chapter 1) and ends with “Christ raised”. The events of Easter are at the heart of being Christian; everything else, and I mean everything else, must stand or fall on the Easter account. Our Christian approach to everything is rooted in Easter.

Hence, between a strong recounting of the cross and the resurrection, Paul sandwiches the following issues:

  • unity in the church and how we show love for our brothers and sisters;
  • sexual conduct, marriage and morality;
  • order in church meetings and the use of spiritual gifts
  • rights and responsibilities as servants of God
  • how we deal with matters where we disagree – both with each other, and with the world
  • our total consecration to God over anything the world may idolize.

Paul demonstrates clearly that Easter is not some mythical story, but a fact witnessed by many. Over these next 5 weeks until 13th May, the risen Lord Jesus walked this earth appearing to many. Just imagine the excitement for those that saw him!! Wow! And one day, we will see him too – either through our death or through his return. No wonder the apostle John cries out “Come Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22v20)!

With love and blessing,

Roland