The Power of Belief: Embracing the Risen Savior

“Raised to Life” Easter Sermon | 04.20.25

In a world often filled with doubt and uncertainty, there's a message of hope that resonates through the ages – the story of a risen Savior. This powerful narrative isn't just a tale from history books; it's a living reality that has the potential to transform lives today.

The account of Jesus' resurrection is more than just a religious story. It's a call to each of us to examine our hearts and ask ourselves a crucial question: Do we truly believe? The early disciples, despite being closest to Jesus during His ministry, struggled with this very question. Even after witnessing miraculous events, they found themselves grappling with doubt and disbelief when faced with the empty tomb.

This human struggle is beautifully captured in the Gospel accounts. We see Mary Magdalene, overcome with grief, mistaking the risen Jesus for a gardener. We witness Thomas, forever dubbed "Doubting Thomas," refusing to believe unless he could physically touch Jesus' wounds. These stories remind us that faith isn't always instantaneous or easy – it's a journey of discovery and personal encounter.

But what happens when we do believe? The transformation can be profound. The Bible tells us in Romans 10:9-10, "If you declare with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved." This isn't just about intellectual assent; it's about a heart-level change that impacts every aspect of our lives.

Believing in the resurrection isn't just about accepting a historical fact. It's about embracing a living Savior who offers us His very Spirit to dwell within us. It's about recognizing Jesus as the "King of Kings and Lord of Lords," as eloquently described in the powerful "That's My King" declaration. This poetic description paints a vivid picture of Jesus as sovereign, merciful, powerful, and intimately involved in our lives.

When we truly grasp who Jesus is – the one who conquered death and offers us eternal life – it should ignite a fire of praise within us. Yet too often, we find ourselves muted in our worship, while we're quick to shout and cheer for far lesser things. We'll celebrate loudly for our favorite sports teams or hunting trophies, but remain silent about the greatest victory in history. It's time to reclaim our praise!

The enemy of our souls wants nothing more than to steal our joy and silence our worship. He knows the power that's released when God's people lift their voices in genuine praise. Psalm 100 encourages us to "Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs." This isn't a suggestion – it's a command born out of the recognition of who God is and what He's done for us.

Even in the midst of life's storms – be it illness, loss, or any other struggle – we're called to give thanks. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." This doesn't mean we ignore our pain or pretend everything is fine. Rather, it's a deliberate choice to trust in God's goodness and sovereignty even when we don't understand our circumstances.

The resurrection of Jesus offers us hope that transcends our current situations. It assures us that death does not have the final word, that our struggles are temporary, and that God's power is greater than anything we face. When we embrace this truth, it changes how we view our lives and the world around us.

But belief isn't meant to be a private matter. We're called to share this good news with others. Romans 10:14 asks, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" Our transformed lives should be a testament to the power of the risen Savior, drawing others to want to know Him too.

As we reflect on the resurrection, let's challenge ourselves to take a fresh look at this familiar story. Let's approach it with the wonder of those first disciples who peered into the empty tomb. Let's allow the reality of a risen Savior to penetrate our hearts and change us from the inside out.

Here are some practical steps we can take to cultivate a deeper belief and a more vibrant faith:

1. Spend time meditating on Scripture passages that describe Jesus' resurrection and its implications for our lives.

2. Practice giving praise to God even in difficult circumstances, choosing to trust His character when we don't understand our situations.

3. Look for opportunities to share your faith with others, being ready to give a reason for the hope that you have.

4. Cultivate a sense of awe about who Jesus is, regularly reflecting on His attributes and what He's done for us.

5. Participate wholeheartedly in corporate worship, allowing your praise to be genuine and unrestrained.

Remember, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead is available to us who believe. Ephesians 1:19-21 describes it as "his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come."

As we embrace this truth, may our lives be marked by transforming belief, unshakeable hope, and contagious joy. Let the reality of the resurrection impact not just our eternal destiny, but our daily lives as well. For we serve a risen Savior – and that changes everything.