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Theme: The foundation for our faith in Christ. Jn. 11:25

INTRODUCTION

A. One of the most fundamental doctrines of Christianity centers upon the resurrection of Jesus as the Christ.

1. Without it, Christianity would be a fraud at the very least.
2. Because of it, however, the gospel message makes Christianity the only legitimate religion that assures everlasting life to all who believe in/upon the name of Jesus. Jn. 3:3, 14-15

B. This morning we look at the importance of the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ.

1. To see how Christ’s resurrection makes our faith a practically valid and vital.
2. And to let the emotional conviction of this truth shine forth as we sing a song of exhortation (Resurrection) to one another.

HE IMPORTANCE OF CHRIST’S RESURRECTION TO OUR FAITH

A. Many centuries before Christ the concept of the resurrection was believed and proclaimed.

1. Job – in the midst of amazing affliction – looked forward to seeing his Redeemer via a physical resurrection. Job. 19:26
2. David – as a shadowy prophecy applied to Christ – looked confidently forward to life after death. Psa. 16:10 (Peter: Acts 2:25-27; Paul: Acts 13:32-35)
3. Daniel – believed through angelic revelation – proclaimed God’s faithful people would awake to everlasting life. Dan. 12:2

B. Jesus Himself taught about the resurrection.

1. He rebuked the Sadducees for their ignorance/unbelief regarding the resurrection. Matt. 22:23-32
2. Regarding Judgment Day Jesus spoke emphatically about the resurrection. Jn. 5:28-29

C. The doctrine of the resurrection is central to the gospel of Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 15:1-11

1. Evidence (eye-witnesses) for His resurrection was overwhelming. V. 3-8
2. If there is no resurrection then all preaching/believing is vain (profitless) and we’re still living in sin. V. 12-19

EXHORTING ONE ANOTHER THROUGH SONG

A. The exhortation:

1. We cheat ourselves (and others) if our faith is limited to simply acknowledging the belief of Christ’s resurrection.
2. This knowledge/belief should spring hope with every endeavor you do while living here.
3. It should relieve you of all fear when people conspire against you.
4. It should bring about joy the world could never fully understand.

B. The song: Resurrection (Richard L. Morrison)

1. Stanza 1 – When Jesus stood at Lazarus’ tomb and none believed He had the pow’r…Despite their grief and their disbelief, He commanded, “Take away the stone.”
2. Stanza 2 – When Jesus lay in Joseph’s tomb and none believed He had the pow’r… True love spoke forth in a Father’s voice, And the angel took away the stone.
3. Stanza 3 – When I shall lie with in my tomb and none believe He has the pow’r, The Lord Himself will descend from heav’n with a shout to take away the stone.

CONCLUSION

A. The resurrection of Jesus Christ should be the center of your faith, hope, and life in Christ. Jn. 20:24-31

B. May it bring you great joy, comfort, and confidence every time we sing about our resurrected Lord.