The Resurrection and the Life

*Note: Sermon not recorded during building transition construction

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not merely a historical event to be celebrated once a year, but a daily reality that should transform how we live. For the first 200 years of the church, believers didn't treat Easter as a special annual memorial. They lived in the excited reality of having witnessed Jesus' resurrected life every day. In the story of Lazarus in John 11, we see a powerful demonstration of who Jesus is as "the resurrection and the life." When Jesus delayed coming to Bethany despite knowing Lazarus was sick, He did so for a greater purpose: the glory of God. This teaches us that God's silence in our lives is not evidence of His absence or lack of care, but often means He is preparing something greater than we can imagine. The resurrection power of Christ completely takes away the fear of death for true believers, allowing us to live boldly by faith rather than being controlled by worldly concerns about health, safety, and longevity. Jesus wept with Mary and Martha over their grief, showing us that He deeply empathizes with our suffering, even as He works toward our ultimate good. As believers, we can face every trial knowing that Jesus has conquered death, and through Him, we will never truly die but only "fall asleep" until we are awakened in His presence.