Living Transformed: The Impact of the Resurrection

 

Summary

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a pivotal event that should profoundly impact our daily lives. While many people celebrate Easter and acknowledge the resurrection, for some, it remains a distant event that doesn't influence their everyday decisions. However, for others, the resurrection is the cornerstone of their faith, affecting every choice they make. The question posed is: where do you stand on this spectrum? If the resurrection of Jesus doesn't change how you live, it's worth examining whether you truly believe in it.

Reflecting on the life of Saul, who became Paul, we see a transformation driven by his belief in the resurrection. Once a persecutor of Christians, Paul became one of the most persecuted for his faith. He understood that if there was no life after death, his sacrifices were in vain. But because he believed in the resurrection, his life was radically different. This belief should lead us to live with the understanding that our earthly life is temporary, like a seed that must die to bring forth new life.

The resurrection assures us that death is not the end. It removes the fear of death, as it is merely a transition to a more glorious existence. This perspective should bring joy and peace, knowing that no matter what happens in this life, we have an eternal future with God. Our bodies, though wonderfully made, are perishable, but they will be raised imperishable, in power and glory.

This truth should influence every decision we make, from the significant to the mundane. It should also challenge us to examine our beliefs and the reasons behind them. Jesus often said, "He who has ears, let him hear," emphasizing that belief is a matter of the heart. If we truly believe in the resurrection, it should be evident in how we live our lives.

Key Takeaways:

- The resurrection of Jesus should be the foundation of our daily lives, influencing every decision we make. If it doesn't, we must question the depth of our belief. [02:22]

- Like Paul, our belief in the resurrection should transform us, leading us to live sacrificially and with purpose, knowing that our hope is not just for this life but for eternity. [04:30]

- Understanding that our earthly bodies are temporary should change our perspective on life and death, allowing us to live with hope and anticipation of the life to come. [10:05]

- The resurrection removes the fear of death, as it assures us of a future resurrection and eternal life with God, making death a mere transition rather than an end. [12:35]

- True belief in the resurrection should be evident in our lives, not just in our words. It challenges us to live with joy, peace, and a sense of security, knowing the ultimate outcome. [14:16]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:57] - The Impact of the Resurrection
- [01:41] - Belief and Daily Life
- [03:02] - The Power of the Cross
- [03:43] - Saul's Transformation
- [05:12] - Life After Death
- [06:04] - Jack Bauer Analogy
- [08:16] - Eternal Perspective
- [09:06] - The Seed Analogy
- [10:34] - Perishable to Imperishable
- [12:35] - Death's Lost Sting
- [14:16] - Living with Joy and Security
- [15:28] - Jesus' Unique Message
- [18:15] - The Core Message of the Gospel
- [20:27] - The Good Person Dilemma

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Impact of the Resurrection

Bible Reading:
1. 1 Corinthians 15:12-22
2. 1 Corinthians 15:32-36
3. 1 Corinthians 15:55-57

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Observation Questions:

1. How does Paul describe the significance of the resurrection in 1 Corinthians 15:12-22? What implications does he suggest if the resurrection did not happen?

2. In the sermon, how is Saul's transformation into Paul used to illustrate the impact of the resurrection on a believer's life? [03:43]

3. What analogy does Paul use in 1 Corinthians 15:36 to explain the transformation that occurs through the resurrection?

4. According to the sermon, how does the resurrection change the way we view death? [12:35]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. What does Paul mean when he says, "If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men" (1 Corinthians 15:19)? How does this statement challenge the way we live our lives? [04:30]

2. How does the analogy of the seed in 1 Corinthians 15:36 help us understand the concept of life after death? What does this imply about our current lives and bodies?

3. In what ways does the sermon suggest that the resurrection should influence our daily decisions and priorities? [14:16]

4. How does the removal of the "sting" of death, as described in 1 Corinthians 15:55-57, provide comfort and assurance to believers?

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own life: How does your belief in the resurrection influence your daily decisions? Are there areas where this belief could have a greater impact? [01:41]

2. Consider the transformation of Saul to Paul. Are there areas in your life where you need a similar transformation due to your belief in the resurrection? What steps can you take to initiate this change? [03:43]

3. The sermon suggests that the resurrection should remove the fear of death. How can you cultivate a mindset that views death as a transition rather than an end? [12:35]

4. How can you live with more joy and peace, knowing the ultimate outcome of your life as promised by the resurrection? What practical steps can you take to remind yourself of this truth daily? [14:16]

5. Identify a decision you are currently facing. How might your belief in the resurrection influence the choice you make? [11:31]

6. The sermon challenges us to examine the depth of our belief in the resurrection. What evidence in your life shows that you truly believe in this event? How can you strengthen this belief? [02:22]

7. How can you share the hope and assurance of the resurrection with someone who may not believe in it? What specific actions or conversations can you initiate this week? [18:41]

Devotional

Day 1: The Resurrection as a Daily Foundation
The resurrection of Jesus Christ is not just a historical event to be acknowledged once a year; it is a transformative truth that should shape every aspect of our daily lives. For many, the resurrection is celebrated during Easter, but its significance often fades in the routine of everyday life. However, for those who truly believe, the resurrection is the cornerstone of their faith, influencing every decision and action. It challenges us to examine the depth of our belief and to consider whether the resurrection truly impacts how we live. If it doesn't, it may be time to reassess our faith and its role in our lives. [02:22]

1 Corinthians 15:17-19 (ESV): "And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied."

Reflection: In what specific ways can you allow the truth of the resurrection to influence your decisions today, both big and small?


Day 2: Transformation Through Belief
The life of Saul, who became Paul, exemplifies the transformative power of belief in the resurrection. Once a fierce persecutor of Christians, Paul became one of the most devoted followers of Christ, enduring persecution himself. His life was radically changed because he understood that if there was no resurrection, his sacrifices were meaningless. This belief in the resurrection should inspire us to live with purpose and sacrifice, knowing that our hope extends beyond this life into eternity. Like Paul, our lives should reflect a transformation driven by our faith in the resurrection. [04:30]

Acts 9:20-22 (ESV): "And immediately he proclaimed Jesus in the synagogues, saying, 'He is the Son of God.' And all who heard him were amazed and said, 'Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called upon this name? And has he not come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests?' But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you can allow your belief in the resurrection to lead to a transformation, similar to Paul's?


Day 3: Earthly Life as a Temporary Journey
Understanding that our earthly bodies are temporary should change our perspective on life and death. The resurrection assures us that death is not the end but a transition to a more glorious existence. This perspective allows us to live with hope and anticipation of the life to come, knowing that our current struggles are temporary. Our bodies, though perishable, will be raised imperishable, in power and glory. This truth should bring us peace and joy, as we look forward to an eternal future with God. [10:05]

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (ESV): "So we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal."

Reflection: How can you shift your focus from the temporary struggles of this life to the eternal glory that awaits, and what practical steps can you take to live with this perspective today?


Day 4: The Fear of Death Removed
The resurrection removes the fear of death, as it assures us of a future resurrection and eternal life with God. Death is no longer an end but a mere transition to a more glorious existence. This assurance should fill us with peace and security, knowing that no matter what happens in this life, we have an eternal future with God. The fear of death is replaced with the hope of resurrection, allowing us to live boldly and confidently in our faith. [12:35]

Hebrews 2:14-15 (ESV): "Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery."

Reflection: What fears are holding you back from living fully in the hope of the resurrection, and how can you begin to release those fears today?


Day 5: Living with Joy and Security
True belief in the resurrection should be evident in our lives, not just in our words. It challenges us to live with joy, peace, and a sense of security, knowing the ultimate outcome. The resurrection assures us of a future with God, allowing us to live with confidence and purpose. Our lives should reflect the joy and peace that come from knowing that we are secure in Christ, regardless of our circumstances. This belief should be a visible testimony to others, demonstrating the transformative power of the resurrection in our lives. [14:16]

1 Peter 1:8-9 (ESV): "Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."

Reflection: How can you intentionally demonstrate the joy and peace of the resurrection in your interactions with others today, and what impact might this have on those around you?

Quotes


there are some people on this planet whom it's the exact opposite where the resurrection of Jesus Christ actually affects every major decision they make in life is based upon this one fact that Jesus Christ Rose from the grave and so it changes every day it changes everything about their lives [00:01:24]

if you have to think too hard to come up with something you got to ask yourself if you really believe this thing you know it was it was great when we're here on Good Friday Todd gave this message about the cross it it was one of the most powerful messages I've heard on the cross where he just talked about how if we really believe this thing [00:02:47]

if I really believe that he rose from the grave that should change everything in life it should impact every area of my life there was this this person in the Bible whose name was Saul and Saul lived a very comfortable life everything was going well for him pretty high position in fact he was out persecuting Christians [00:03:35]

he started believing in the resurrection of Jesus Christ and it changed everything about him it changed his life completely to the point where he went from persecuting people to becoming the most persecuted Christian on this planet and after being tortured so often after sacrificing so much much he writes this in 1 Corinthians 15 [00:04:09]

Paul says because I believe in the resurrection of dead because I believe Jesus rose again that means I'm going to rise from the grave my life is completely completely completely different how many how many of you have heard of a guy named Jack Bower okay a lot of you CTU agent counterterrorist unit um he uh he's really saved our country many times [00:05:46]

the resurrection of Jesus Christ should change the way you view everything on this Earth it's the greatest way to live in fact Paul when he talks about uh our bodies here on Earth he says in in verse 36 of that same chapter 1 Corinthians 15 he he Compares Our lives our bodies to a seed he says it's like this [00:09:08]

when you have a seed what do you want that seed to do you want to stick it in the ground what do you want to happen to that seed you want that seed to die so that something else will spring up the true life the true plant he and he's explained that in the same way when we die it's the same thing you want to die [00:09:41]

the body that is sown is perishable but it's raised imperishable that's pretty cool it's sown in dishonor it's raised in glory it's sown in weakness but we get raised in power it's swn it's thrown into the ground as this natural body but it gets raised as a spiritual body and if there's a natural body there's a spiritual body [00:10:34]

the resurrection gave us the hope for and and I tell you when you start looking at life that way it it impacts everything from the huge decisions in life to the little decisions in life it it was funny even this week on on Wednesday I was out surfing and and somehow you know when I fell the board hit my leg and I cut my leg open [00:11:31]

where oh death is your Victory where oh death is your stain it it's it's like he's mocking death he's saying you know Jesus died he rose again so what's so scary about dying he goes he took that sting away and explains how the The Sting of death was sin you know it death would have been a scary thing if we died and knew [00:12:37]

the whole horror of death is completely gone it's like big deal so my body goes into the ground and I get raised in a a better body an imperishable body that's raised with power with glor Glory I I I look forward to that and suddenly death it's lost its power it's lost its sting all because one man Rose from the grave [00:13:51]

this is not about something we sing about once a year or we attend church for once a year it's about something that affects every single thing in our lives it should impact all of our decisions it should bring so much life and so much joy and so much security and peace to go well I Know How It Ends [00:14:48]

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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
Were there any personal stories shared?