History is full of watershed moments. Certain military battles, the fall of government regimes, even the invention of the printing press or the iPhone. These are singular events that have undeniably changed the course of history.
Likewise, the crucifixion of Jesus was a significant moment in human history. It was at the cross where Jesus, the son of God, died for his enemies. It was at the cross where salvation for sinners was made possible. However, his death is only part of the story. If Jesus died and remained in the tomb, Christianity would be no different to the other hundreds of world religions.
The Bible puts it this way in 1 Corinthians 15:14:
“And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain”.
In other words, if Christ died but did not rise from the dead, then the hope that Christianity offers, forgiveness of sin and eternal life, becomes non-existent. Which is why though the death of Christ is significant, the resurrection of Jesus is the greatest watershed moment in human history. Upon it hung not just the fate of citizens, cities or even countries but the fate of the entire human race.
Thankfully, the Bible goes on to say that “Christ has been raised from the dead.” Jesus’ resurrection accomplishes three things:
Firstly, it accomplishes salvation from sin. Enemies of Jesus can now find forgiveness, reconciliation with God and a life that never ends.
Secondly, the resurrection of Jesus gives us new life. Because Jesus rose again, those who believe in Jesus will be transformed from the inside out. Once dead in sins, they are now made alive in Christ. Jesus gives us new life – a fresh start – because of his resurrection.
Lastly, the resurrection of Jesus gives us hope of a physical resurrection. Death is not the end for the Christian. When a Christian dies, their souls go to be with Jesus. But in the future, because Jesus was raised physically, we too will be raised physically and be given a body like his, one that will never experience death or decay.
That is the hope that the death and resurrection of Jesus gives. That is why the death and resurrection of Jesus is so important. What do you make of this, the greatest watershed moment in human history?