2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
Calendar
THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION
FRIDAY, JULY 22
Philippians 3:10-11
Psalm 52
“Thou hast rebuked the proud
that are cursed, which do err
from thy commandments.”
THE POWER OF THE RESURRECTION
Scripture constantly reminds us that we do not become Christians by performing certain religious rites. Salvation is by God’s grace alone. It is God’s power that makes us a new creation and enables us to live in obedience to Him (2 Cor 5:17). The Apostle speaks of this saving and changing power as the “power of his (Christ’s) resurrection” (Phil 3:10). He longs to experience a greater practical knowledge of this resurrection power (Phil 3:10).
Scripture clearly points out that the entire truth of the Christian faith rests on the fact of the resurrection of Christ. Without the resurrection, Christians would be people to be pitied, because their faith would be in vain (1 Cor 15:12-19). Our justification was made possible by Christ’s resurrection (Rom 4:25). And it is through this same resurrection that God has empowered the believer to live a new life of obedience (Eph 2:5).
As we come to know Christ in an experiential way, the power of the resurrection becomes a reality in our daily lives. As this power changes our lives, the world sees the righteousness of Christ in us and rebels against it. Then we must learn another aspect of the Christian life. Those who share in the joy of the resurrection are also called on to share in suffering (Phil 3:10; 2 Cor 4:10). Even as Christ was rejected, so too it is expected that the Christian who lives for God will be rejected and will suffer (2 Cor 4:10).
The more we come to know the Lord and experience the “power of his resurrection,” the more we exhibit God’s holiness and witness to His saving power. Such a testimony results in others coming to know Christ, but it also often results in persecution. When this happens, may we, like the disciples of old, rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer for Him.
THOUGHT: What is living proof that I really know the Lord?
PRAYER: “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution” (2 Tim 3:12). Prepare me for this, Father.