[3] For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, [4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, [5] and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. [6] Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. (1 Corinthians 15:3–6)
How do we know for certain that we have a right relationship with God? The missionary apostle Paul lays it out for us in this passage of Scripture.
- We know we have a right relationship with God because Christ died specifically for our sins.
- We know we have a right relationship with God because Jesus was buried, further proof that he truly died.
- We know we have a right relationship with God because Christ was raised from the dead on the third day.
- We know we have a right relationship with God because Jesus appeared to Peter, then to the rest of the disciples, then to more than 500 brothers at one time. This was proof positive that Jesus truly lived again.
The power of Easter is that Jesus’ resurrection proves that Jesus made our relationship right with God. For Christ’s sake, for now throughout eternity, we are wrapped in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.
(A Second Look devotions are written for the congregations of the Ohio District LCMS.)
Kevin Wilson 360 