Significant Hope 

“…we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead.”
1 Corinthians 15:15 (NIVUK) 

A few weeks ago there was a small earthquake near where I live in England. It was one of the 13 minor earthquakes recorded around the British Isles in the past 50 days.

It measured only 1.0 on the Richter scale, and, according to reports from the British Geological Survey, was not powerful enough to cause any significant damage. It reminded me of another earthquake, one which was powerful enough to cause significant hope.

This other earthquake took place after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. A Roman centurion and some guards were watching Jesus at the moment of his death on the cross.

This is how the gospel according to Matthew records it: “The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the city and appeared to many people. When the centurion and those who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, ‘Surely he was the Son of God’” (Matthew 27:51-54).

This was a precursor, a sign of hope for all men and women everywhere. In the leading scripture Paul explains that Christians testify about how God raised Christ from the dead. Thus our whole life becomes a testimony to the hope that is Jesus Christ.

Trust in Jesus. Surely, as the centurion said, he is the Son of God!

Prayer
Father, thank you that you raised Jesus from the dead, and for the hope that this gives to all of us. In Jesus’ name.
Amen 

Study by James Henderson

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About the Author:
James Henderson is the National Ministry Leader for Grace Communion International in the UK and Ireland. This weekend James in speaking in our Camberwell and London congregations. You are welcome to attend any of our local congregations in the UK and Ireland. For details of your nearest local congregation, check on our website, www.gracecom.org.uk under the ‘Churches’ tab, or ring +44 (0)1858 437099.

Contact:
Email: admin@daybyday.org.uk